Acute relaxation during pregnancy leads to a reduction in maternal electrodermal activity and self-reported stress levels

Abstract

Background Prenatal maternal stress can have adverse effects on birth outcomes and fetal development. Relaxation techniques have been examined as potential countermeasures. This study investigates different relaxation techniques and their effect on self-reported stress levels and physiological stress levels in pregnant women. Methods In this cross-sectional study, 38 pregnant women in their 30th to 40th gestational week were assigned to one of three, 20-min lasting relaxation groups: listening to music (N = 12), following a guided imagery (N = 12) or resting (N = 12). The intervention, i.e., acute relaxation (music, guided imagery or resting) took place once for each study participant. Study inclusion criteria were age over 18 years, German speaking, singleton and uncomplicated pregnancy during the 30th and 40th week of gestation. The stress levels were determined during the study. Current stress level during the study was assessed by a visual analogue scale. Chronic stress levels were assessed by the Trier Inventory of Chronic Stress and the Pregnancy Distress questionnaire. Multivariate analyses of covariance were performed and dependent measures included stress levels as well as physiological measures, i.e., cardiovascular activity (electrocardiogram) and skin conductance levels. Results All three forms of relaxation led to reduced maternal stress which manifested itself in significantly decreased skin conductance, F(3,94) = 18.011, p = .001, ηp2 = .365, and subjective stress levels after the interventions with no significant group difference. Post-intervention stress ratings were further affected by gestational age, with less subjective relaxation in women later in gestation, F (1, 34)=4.971, p = .032, ηp2 = .128. Conclusion Independent of relaxation technique, single, 20-min relaxation intervention (music, guided imagery or resting) can significantly reduce maternal stress. Notably, women at an earlier stage in their pregnancy reported higher relaxation after the intervention than women later in gestation. Hence, gestational age may influence perceived stress levels and should be considered when evaluating relaxation or stress management interventions during pregnancy. Trial registration Not applicable.

Effects of relaxation interventions during pregnancy on maternal mental health, and pregnancy and newborn outcomes: A systematic review and meta-analysis

“…Measurements of maternal physiological outcomes were reported in six studies [ 36 , 43 , 52 , 55 , 60 , 63 ]. Pregnant women in the relaxation group had lower systolic and diastolic blood pressure, heart rate, respiration rate and skin conductance level activity during pregnancy, labour and the postnatal period [ 36 , 43 , 52 , 55 , 60 , 63 ].…”

Effect of Virtual Reality and Music Therapy on the Physiologic Parameters of Pregnant Women and Fetuses and on Anxiety Levels: A Randomized Controlled Trial

“…At the physiologic level, the auditory and visual stimuli perceived during music therapy or VR act on the autonomic nervous system, resulting in changes in heart rate and blood pressure. Likewise, some studies show changes in skin conductance levels that persist beyond the relaxation phase of the intervention, although with less intensity 14 …”

“…Likewise, some studies show changes in skin conductance levels that persist beyond the relaxation phase of the intervention, although with less intensity. 14 The gate control theory helps explain how VR can alleviate stress in pregnant women both before and after birth by creating auditory and visual sensory stimuli that focuses her attention, thus distancing her from anxious feelings and thoughts. 15 Neurophysiological and hormonal mechanisms also contribute to helping women cope with anxiety and pain during pregnancy and birth.…”