Effects of Yoga on Stress in Pregnant Women

Abstract

During pregnancy, a woman’s body undergoes physiological and metabolic changes to nourish the developing fetus. Every woman experiences pregnancy-related stress differently, with symptoms and difficulties ranging from mild to severe. However, various therapies are available to help reduce stress levels. The purpose of this study is to assess the impact of integrated yoga, which includes asanas and pranayama, on stress levels and physiological markers in pregnant women. The study is a prospective, randomized, controlled, single-blind trial with 2 parallel groups. The intervention group was provided with integrated yoga therapy, while the control group was given routine standard care from 18 to 22 weeks to 33-35 weeks of gestation. To measure the stress level, a standardized perceived stress scale was used, which has 10 items with stress scores ranging from 0 to 4, with a maximum score of 40. The average stress score was significantly lower in the intervention group (P < .001) as well as normal physiological parameters when compared to the control group. Findings suggest that practicing yoga during pregnancy is safe and effective in reducing stress and preventing complications. Women who began yoga therapy during their second trimester reported a significant decrease in physiological parameters from baseline to post-intervention. However, further randomized controlled trials are necessary to determine the validity and usefulness of yoga therapy during pregnancy.