The effect of home-based yoga exercises on quality of life among postpartum women

Background

The postpartum period is often accompanied by physical discomfort, emotional stress, and reduced quality of life. Yoga has gained attention as a gentle, low-cost intervention that can support physical recovery and emotional well-being after childbirth. By combining movement, breathing, and relaxation, postpartum yoga may help improve overall health and quality of life for new mothers.

Aim of this study

To evaluate the effect of a home-based yoga exercise program on the quality of life among postpartum women.

Design

A quasi-experimental design with two groups (study and control).

Sample

A purposive sampling of 300 participants was equally divided.

Setting

This study was conducted at outpatient clinics of the obstetric and gynecological department at Mansoura University Hospital, Dakahlia Governorate, Egypt.

Tools of collection

Three tools were used for data collection, first tool: Structured Interviewing Questionnaire to collect data about the participant's socio-demographic data and obstetric and infant history. Second tool: Yoga exercise schedule card. This tool functioned as both a guidance and monitoring resource for the postpartum Yoga exercise. Third tool: Quality of Life Questionnaire. This standardized tool was used to assess the overall quality of life of postpartum women.

Results

The results of this study demonstrate a statistically significant difference in postpartum quality of life between the study and control groups (p < 0.001). All participants in the study group reported satisfaction across various levels, while none of the control group participants expressed satisfaction.

Conclusion

The study concluded that home-based yoga exercises had a positive effect on improving the quality of life among postpartum women. Respondents who regularly practiced yoga presented a better physical and emotional well-being in comparison to others in the control group.

Recommendations

Postpartum yoga shall be merged into routine maternal healthcare to enhance their physical and emotional well-being after delivery. Accessible, home-based yoga programs with clear instructions to accommodate diverse postpartum conditions shall be developed by the Healthcare authorities. Also, training nurses and midwives on safe yoga practices to lead women and improve the effectiveness, and ensure their safety during performing this intervention.