To Study the Knowledge, Attitude and Practice of Postpartum Exercises in Nursing Mothers

Abstract

Postpartum period has three distinct phases - immediate, early and remote.[1] First six weeks following childbirth known as puerperal period is a stressful for any women due to physiological and psychological adaptation which happens during this period and pelvic organ returns to pre pregnant state.[1] Breastfeeding starts immediately after the birth of the infant and as per the recommendation of WHO it is to be continued exclusively for 6 months.[2] During this period, Postpartum exercises like Kegel’s, abdominal and breathing exercises helps to improve the pelvic floor and abdominal muscle tone, bowel and bladder function and cardiovascular fitness which will have a positive influence on the health of the mother.[3] Two hundred and sixteen postpartum nursing mothers between the time period of six weeks to six months and Women who have given birth in hospitals and have been informed about post- natal exercises during the duration of hospitalization.In conclusion, the findings of this study provided an excellent insight on how many of the participants had knowledge about postnatal exercises and attitude is relatively positive which they were fully aware of the potential benefits of postnatal exercises but most of them did not practice postnatal exercises in their postpartum period regularly because majority of mothers were facing barriers because of household chores and baby care. Key Words: knowledge, attitude and practice of postpartum exercises, nursing mothers, postpartum health.