The Impact of Structured Exercise on the Fear of Childbirth Among Pregnant Women

Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to examine the effect of structured exercise on FOC among pregnant women.

Method: The study utilized a quasi-experimental design with a two-group pre-test and post-test format. A total of 52 pregnant women were selected through convenience sampling, with 26 women in the intervention group and 26 women in the control group. Data were collected using the WDEQ-A questionnaire to measure FOC. The intervention group received structured exercise over 3 weeks, with the first week dedicated to providing information about pregnancy exercises and two weeks of exercise, twice a week, with each session lasting 30 minutes. Data analysis included Wilcoxon, Mann-Whitney, and ANCOVA tests.

Results: The results indicated a significant reduction in FOC in the intervention group, with a mean square of 5374.105, F = 54.023, and a significance value of 0.000 (p < 0.005). This demonstrates a strong effect of structured exercise on reducing FOC.

Conclusion: Structured exercise was found to be effective in lowering FOC among pregnant women. Given these findings, it is recommended that structured exercise be integrated into prenatal care routines to help reduce the fear of childbirth. Health professionals should enhance education and provide adequate facilities to support pregnant women in engaging in these exercises, ultimately improving their childbirth experience.