Feasibility of pilates for pregnant women: A randomised trial

Abstract

ObjectiveTo investigate the feasibility and preliminary effects of Pilates exercises in primigravida women. DesignSingle-blind randomized controlled feasibility trial. SettingCommunity Pilates classes. ParticipantsLow-risk pregnant women. InterventionsPregnant women were randomly assigned to Pilates exercises (experimental) group for 6 consecutive weeks or usual antenatal care, the control group. Main outcomesThe primary outcome was feasibility of Pilates classes. Secondary outcomes included quality of life, pain, and mobility. Results21 women were recruited to the trial. Eleven were randomly allocated to the experimental group and 10 to the control group. Retention of participants was excellent for the Pilates group (100%) compared to 70% in the control group. There were no adverse events. The Pilates group showed greater gains in quality of life on the SF-12 from the pre-test (M = 81.0, SD = 11.8) to the post-test (M = 83.3, SD = 8.52) compared to the control group (pre-test M = 69.78, SD = 15.9) (post-test M = 68.1, SD = 16.05) (Wald Chi-Square = 5.597, p = 0.018). Although the duration of labour was shorter in the Pilates group (Mdn = 215, IQR: 279 min) than usual care (Mdn = 458.5, IQR: 305 min), the difference was not statistically significant. There were no significant differences between groups for pain, mobility, abdominal separation, urinary continence, analgesia, or the mode of birth. ConclusionsModified Pilates appears feasible and safe for low-risk pregnant women. Further research is needed in on this topic.