1Post Graduate, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Sree Balaji Medical College and Hospital, Bharath Institute of Higher Education and Research (BIHER), Chennai, India
2Assistant Professor, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Sree Balaji Medical College and Hospital, Chromepet, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India. Bharath Institute of Higher Education and Research (BIHER), Chennai, India
3Professor, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Sree Balaji Medical College and Hospital, Chromepet, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India. Bharath Institute of Higher Education and Research (BIHER), Chennai, India
Corresponding Author: Dr. Monisha K, Second Year Postgraduate, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Sree Balaji Medical College and Hospital, Sri Balaji Vidyapeeth (Deemed to be University), Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
Background: The postpartum period represents a crucial phase for maternal recovery involving physiological, musculoskeletal, and psychological adaptation. Despite international evidence supporting postpartum exercise for improving cardiovascular fitness, muscle strength, and mood, awareness and adoption remain low in India. Cultural restrictions, inadequate professional counselling, and lack of structured rehabilitation guidance often delay recovery. The present study aimed to assess awareness, adoption, and determinants of postpartum recovery-exercise practices among women attending a tertiary-care centre in South India.
Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 125 postpartum women aged 18–30 years, between six weeks and six months after delivery. Eligible participants were selected through purposive sampling after obtaining informed consent. Data were collected using a validated, pre-tested, interviewer-administered questionnaire adapted from the Exercise Benefits and Barriers Scale and Self-Efficacy for Exercise Scale. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS v25. Descriptive and inferential statistics (Chi-square test and binary logistic regression) were used to identify predictors of exercise adoption, with p < 0.05 considered statistically significant.
Results: Among the respondents, 48 % had heard of postpartum exercises, 36 % could correctly define them, and only 30.4 % practiced any form of exercise. Awareness was significantly associated with adoption (χ² = 10.82, p = 0.001). Women who had not received counselling were 3.75 times more likely to remain inactive (95 % CI 1.55–9.10, p = 0.003), and those lacking awareness were 4.8 times less likely to adopt exercise (p < 0.001). Family encouragement (OR 2.6, p = 0.045) and education up to secondary level (OR 2.85, p = 0.02) positively influenced adoption. The main barriers identified were lack of time (60 %), fatigue (55 %), and fear of harm (48 %).
Conclusion: Awareness and adoption of postpartum recovery exercises were found to be sub-optimal. Structured physiotherapy counselling, family support, and culturally tailored educational initiatives are essential to improve postpartum rehabilitation and ensure long-term maternal well-being.
Keywords: Postpartum Period; Physical Activity; Pelvic Floor Exercise; Health Education; Maternal Health.
How to cite this article: Monisha K, Reshmi S, Sornam MS, Preethi B. Evaluation of Awareness, Adoption, and Factors Influencing Postpartum Recovery Exercise Practices Among Women in the Postpartum Period – A Cross-Sectional Study at a Tertiary Care Centre in Chennai. Int J Drug Deliv Technol. 2026;16(12s): 27-36. DOI: 10.25258/ijddt.16.12s.5
Source of support: Nil.
Conflict of interest: None