Physiotherapy in obstetrics through the eyes of pregnant women: a qualitative study

Abstract

Introduction: Physiotherapy in women's health emerged with the aim of promoting and maintaining physical and emotional health from the beginning to the end of pregnancy, through preventive measures against possible injuries that may occur during pregnancy, childbirth and the postpartum. Access to knowledge about obstetric physiotherapy among pregnant women is increasing, which may contribute to a search for trained professionals. Objective: To analyze the perception of pregnant women about obstetric physiotherapy. Methods: This is a qualitative study carried out at the Materno Infantil Center, in Capanema, Parana state (PR), using a semistructured interview. Content analysis used the Bardin method to categorize the thematic axes. Results: Seven pregnant women aged between 18-24 years (57%), 23-32 weeks of gestation (42%), multiparous (71%), with secondary education (42%) and income between 1-3 monthly minimum wages (86 %) were included in the study. It was found that participants’ perception of physiotherapy was inaccurate, because none of the women had accessed this treatment. The women stated that physiotherapists reduce labor pain, but they have no knowledge of how these professionals work in the postpartum. Conclusion: It is concluded that it is necessary to increase information on the contribution of physiotherapists during prenatal care, delivery and postpartum.

A Physical Therapist's Role in Providing a Trauma-Informed, Whole-Body, Holistic Approach to Address the Spiritual and Mental Health of Patients

“…Physical therapists should be included in the health care team throughout the pregnancy and postpartum phases to provide education, functionally prepare, and rehabilitate women. Many hospitals around the world include physical therapists in the birthing room as pain and movement experts 9,10…”

“…Many hospitals around the world include physical therapists in the birthing room as pain and movement experts. 9,10 TRAUMA WITH SEXUAL ASSAULT Despite the progression in the utilization of women's and pelvic health physical therapists in the birth process, there continues to be a lack of knowledge regarding the role physical therapy plays in improving the birth experience outcomes. 9 Sexual harassment or assault was reported by 81% of women during the #MeToo Movement.…”

“…9,10 TRAUMA WITH SEXUAL ASSAULT Despite the progression in the utilization of women's and pelvic health physical therapists in the birth process, there continues to be a lack of knowledge regarding the role physical therapy plays in improving the birth experience outcomes. 9 Sexual harassment or assault was reported by 81% of women during the #MeToo Movement. 11 The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that 50% of all women have experienced sexual violence involving physical contact, and 1 in 5 women in the United States will report a history of sexual assault (SA) or rape, with estimates reaching up to 30% in women in racial and ethnic minority groups.…”