A comparative study of isometric handgrip test between pregnant and non-pregnant women

Abstract

Background: Pregnancy is associated with profound adaptive changes in maternal haemodynamics. The incidence of Pregnancy Induced Hypertension [PIH] is one of the three main causes of maternal – neonatal morbidity and mortality is 5-7% and prediction of this disorder is very important in maternal and neonatal health. Objective: To study the effect of Isometric handrip test among pregnant (women of first trimester) and non-pregnant women. Materials and Methods: Healthy singleton pregnant women of first trimester and healthy non-pregnant women in the age group of 19 to 29 years were selected for the study. The Isometric handgrip test was performed on singleton pregnant women attending the antenatal clinic of District Civil Hospital BIMS Belagavi. The control group consisted of Medical students and Patient’s attenders of same age group. Blood pressure was measured three times before the procedure and at 1 minute intervals during handgrip. Results: The basal Diastolic blood pressure of first trimester subjects was significantly higher than compared to controls. Statistical Analysis: Student’s ‘t’ test was used. Conclusion: The study concludes that the increased basal DBP of first trimester subjects was due to the increased peripheral resistance in pregnancy. Keywords: Diastolic blood pressure, Isometric Handgrip test, Pregnant women