Are pelvic-abdominal mechanics exercises effective for cesarean delivery rate and postpartum pelvic floor function: A randomized controlled trial.

OBJECTIVES

To examine the effectiveness of pelvic-abdominal mechanics exercise in reducing cesarean section rates and preventing pelvic floor dysfunction in primiparous women.

DESIGN

Randomized controlled trial.

METHODS

A single-center prospective study was conducted among 200 primiparous participants (aged 18-38 years) who undertook formal card-issuing maternity tests between June 1, 2022, and June 30, 2023. Participants were divided into two groups: exercise (intervention) and control using the random number table method. Participants of the intervention group performed pelvic-abdominal mechanics exercise at least 1 h each time per week for three months. Participants of the control group did not perform any pelvic-abdominal mechanics exercise during pregnancy. This study conducted a comprehensive evaluation from three perspectives, including maternal and neonatal health outcomes during delivery, the recovery status of pelvic floor muscles at 42 days postpartum, and the quality of life during late pregnancy (36-38 weeks) and 42 days postpartum.

RESULTS

A significant difference was found in delivery outcomes. The cesarean section rates are significantly higher (p < 0.05) in the control group (36 %) than in the exercise group (19 %). At 42 days postpartum, pelvic floor assessment showed that the exercise group had significantly better results in pelvic floor muscle strength compared to the control group, with statistical significance (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Pelvic-abdominal mechanics exercise lowers the rate of cesarean section and improves postpartum pelvic floor function.