Issn Print: 1556-6803
Publication Date: 2006/07/01
Experiences With an Early Pregnancy Educational Program
Linda A. Steiner; Nadia Cooper; Kahl Laura; Andrea Petrolini; Angela Tuesca; Tamara Windholz
+ Author Information
Author Information: Program in Physical Therapy, MGH Institute of Health Professions, Boston, MA, USA.
Excerpt
Purpose: Pregnant women are known to have increased risks of musculoskeletal dysfunctions associated with pregnancy and childbirth, including incontinence, back pain and general deconditioning, and are an important population for educational program early in pregnancy aimed at prevent or mitigate these problems. The purpose of this program is to assess the knowledge, provide education and advice on preventive strategies, and to assess participant carryover from a first trimester educational session. Description: Participants in this study were primiparous women (N=21), 7-11 weeks pregnant enrolled in a single session new early pregnancy course offered by Massachusetts General Hospital Mother and Child Center. A portion of this class was dedicated to teaching about musculoskeletal changes that occur during pregnancy, the complications/ discomforts that may ensue as a result, and guidelines and instructions on various types of exercise that may help to reduce the occurrence of these problems. In addition to verbal instruction, participants were given written exercise guidelines, educational materials, and applicable illustrations. Participants completed a pre-class survey and a similar survey 10 weeks post class. The posttest survey also assessed if behaviors or advice given was implemented. Summary of Use: 21 preclass surveys and 11 returned post surveys were assessed. Prior to the class, 10/21 women received information about exercise during pregnancy from books or the internet. Only 2/21 had advice form any health professional. Preclass most women were aware of some expected bodily changes and understood the benefits of exercise in general, but lacked knowledge of pregnancy related issues and warning signs of potential problems. 16/21 women were exercising and 20/21 expected to exercise during pregnancy. However, ten week later,less than half continued to exercise. Only 6/21 had knowledge of pregnancy related incontinence or how or perform a Kegel exercise. Approximately 1/3 of the post group implemented Kegel exercises and 7/12 implemented 1 or more exercise recommendations taught at the session. During the class there were many questions from the participants regarding specific kinds of exercise. Importance to Members: Pregnant women in the first trimester want and are in need of sound advice to prevent incontinence and to perform exercise appropriately for pregnancy. Follow up classes though the succeeding trimesters may be warranted to assist women in implementing recommendations.
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