The main aim of this study is to assess the awareness and attitudes on postpartum exercises among urban Sri Lanka Mothers.
A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 200 women from the Western Province of Sri Lanka. The participants were chosen through convenience sampling, from the women who attend urban chemists for new baby products. The data was collected using an online questionnaire on a tablet device kept at the chemist.
168 completed responses were received. Most of them were between 30 -35 years. 45% (75) of them had delivered their baby as caesarean delivery while 41% (69) had normal vaginal deliveries. Majority of them were between 3-6 months after delivery. 79% (132) had delivered 1 to 3 live births. Whilst 62% (103) of them thought that they were active postnatally, 69 of them didn’t do specific exercises and 81 of them were not aware of postnatal exercises. 42% (71) of them thought exercising during the postnatal period was bad for their health. 82% (138) suffered from musculoskeletal pains. Among those who had pains, 65% (90) weren’t taking Physiotherapy. This was mainly due to their busy schedules and their lack of knowledge regarding Physiotherapy.
There seems to be a lack of awareness on specific post-natal exercises and their importance among the Urban Sri Lankan women. This was more evident with the prevalence of musculoskeletal pains. However, their lack of awareness seemed to keep them from even seeking treatment.
As the common postnatal issues like Musculoskeletal pains have become increasingly prevalent among the Urban Sri Lankan women, it can be implied that they are at risk of more serious postnatal comorbidities as well. Therefore it is important to organize specific interventions like workshops, leaflets and media campaigns to improve awareness of Postnatal exercises.
Health education
Exercise awareness
