Effect of Pelvic Floor Muscle Exercise Training Protocol For Pregnant Woman during 3rd Trimester on Labor Duration

Abstract

Background: Pelvic floor muscles training during pregnancy can produce strong and well controlled muscles that will facilitate labor progress and outcomes. The aim of this quasi-experimental non equivalent control study was to assess the effect of pelvic floor muscle exercise training protocol for pregnant woman during 3^rd trimester on labor duration. Sample: A total of 100 pregnant women in 3^rd trimester were recruited for this study. Research design: A convenience sample was used & divided into two groups (study & control groups) 50 each; the study group who received pelvic floor muscle training exercise and control group who received standard routine care at El-Manial University Hospital, Cairo University, Egypt. Each group was assigned randomly to the line of management. Tools: Structured interviewing tool, pelvic floor muscles strength assessment, antenatal follow up checklist, partograph. Results: a statistically significantly difference between the study and control groups in relation to duration of 1^st, 2^nd and 3^rd stage of labor. Conclusion: pelvic floor muscle training exercise can be useful to decrease duration of labor. Recommendation: Pelvic floor muscle training exercise should be an essential part of prenatal care. The nurse should be an educator and counselor for mothers during prenatal care.

Keywords: pelvic floor muscle training exercise, 3^rd trimester of pregnancy, labor duration