Preeclampsia can cause life threatening problems during childbirth. Recently, physical stretching exercise is recommended in pregnant women with preeclampsia to reduce the developing complication. Aim: This study aimed to evaluate the effect of self-independent physical stretching exercise on Feto-maternal Outcomes among Mild Preeclamptic Pregnant Women. Design: Quasi-experimental prospective study research design was utilized. Setting: The present study conducted in antenatal clinic as well as labor units at Benha University Hospital in Benha city, Egypt. Sample: Purposive sample composed of 140 pre-eclamptic women at 28 weeks of gestation and age up to 30 years were included in this study. Tools: Data were collected through three tools I: Structured interviewing questionnaire: to assess socio-demographic characteristics and obstetric history of pregnant women. II: Antenatal follow up sheet: for clinical assessment of blood pressure, self-reported practices after performing physical stretching exercise. III: Maternal and Fetal Outcome Record: To assess maternal complication and fetal outcome. Results: the study revealed that there was high statistically significance decrease of study group`s systolic and diastolic blood pressure throughout follow up visits at p-value was 0.000, there was progressive improvements in all items of self-reported practices sheet as in the 6th follow up visit, after practicing physical stretching exercise and also that there were highly statistical differences in the study & control group after delivery in all items of fetal assessment tool. Conclusion: The present study concluded that practicing self-independent physical stretching exercises are effective, easier and safer for mild pre-eclamptic women. Recommendations: Involvement of physical stretching exercise programs in routine prenatal care for pre-eclamptic women to be provided by specialized health care provider. |
