Effectiveness of Antenatal Motor Relearning Approach of Diaphragm, Deep Abdominal and Pelvic Floor Muscles Versus Kegels Exercises on Postpartum Pelvic Floor Muscle Strength

Objective: To compare the effect of antenatal motor relearning approach of diaphragm, deep abdominal and pelvic floor exercises versus kegels exercises on postpartum pelvic floor muscle strength.

Design: Quasi experimental, Post test only design with a comparison group

Setting: Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, PSG Hospitals.

Participants: 78 antenatal women randomly selected. Among the 78 women, 39 each were assigned to Group A (interventional group) and to Group B (control group). Finally 21 women in each group continued the treatment program. • Group A- antenatal motor relearning approach of diaphragmatic, deep abdominal and pelvic floor muscles • Group B - kegels exercises Outcome Measure: The pelvic floor muscle strength was measured using Perineometer on the third postnatal day.

Results: Data from 42 women were analyzed. Independent 't' test was used as statistical tool. It has been found that there is significant difference in the postpartum pelvic floor muscle strength between the interventional and control group. The mean difference between the interventional and control group were 1.762mm hg. The calculated 't' value using independent 't' test was 3.584 which was greater than tabulated test statistic value of the 1.960 at (p<0.05).

Conclusion: The pelvic floor muscle strength was comparatively greater among the women who performed antenatal motor relearning approach than kegels exercise group. Hence antenatal Motor Relearning approach of diaphragmatic, deep abdominal and pelvic floor exercises can be implemented during a normal pregnancy unless precluded by additional risk factors.