Knowledge and attitude of Pakistani women towards antenatal exercise: A cross-sectional survey across Lahore

Abstract

Exercise has become a significant part of antenatal care. Adequate knowledge amongst pregnant females is important to encourage them to work on it. The aim of this study was to attain information on the level of knowledge, attitude and practice towards antenatal exercise amongst women in Lahore, Pakistan. This was a cross-sectional survey in which a Knowledge, Attitude and Practice (KAP) questionnaire was used to gather data from 250 pregnant females. The data was analysed using SPSS version 16.0 found the following results: relaxation and breathing n=136 (54.4%), back care exercises n=178 (71.2%) were the main known antenatal exercises. Prevention of back pain n=111 (44.4%), excess weight gain n=127 (50.8%), strengthening muscles n=141 (56.4%) and better ability to cope with labour n= 115 (46.0%) were perceived as advantages. In the survey, n= 218 (87.2%) of the females had a negative attitude towards antenatal exercises. The survey confirmed most of the pregnant females in Lahore had inadequate knowledge and a negative attitude towards antenatal exercises.