Perception of Antenatal Physical Therapy Care Among Elite Class Pregnant Women of Lahore: a Socioeconomic Perspective
Year: 2024
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: Background: Perception shapes how individuals form ideas and beliefs. Physical therapy, a vital multidisciplinary approach, significantly enhances quality of life by addressing various health aspects. In antenatal care, physiotherapists play a crucial role in assisting women through the physical and emotional challenges of pregnancy and labor. Objective: To evaluate the perception of antenatal physical therapy care among elite class pregnant women and to explore how socioeconomic factors influence their access to these services. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted with 100 adult women (ages 19-44) in normal singleton pregnancies, using non-probability convenient sampling. Participants were required to understand English and were excluded if they had high-risk pregnancies. A standardized questionnaire with an interclass coefficient of 0.945 assessed their perceptions. Results: Out of 100 participants, 79% were aware of physiotherapy, but only 47% knew about antenatal exercises. While 52% had good knowledge of physiotherapy's role in antenatal care, 60% showed a positive attitude. Despite 85% having access to private healthcare, only 40% had visited a physiotherapist. Additionally, 65% stated that income influences their decision to seek care, and 50% would recommend physiotherapy, though 25% were unsure. Conclusion: The study reveals 52% of elite-class pregnant women in Lahore have good knowledge and 60% hold a positive attitude toward antenatal physical therapy, gaps in practice persist. Despite 85% having access to private healthcare, many have not sought physiotherapy care. Socioeconomic factors, particularly income, strongly influence access, emphasizing the need for better education and promotion of antenatal physiotherapy.
Authors: Khadija Nawaz, Somia Faisal, Mehwish Khalid, Hassan Bin Akram, Sehar Zainab, Arbab Ramzan
Language: English
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
OpenAlex ID: W4408265700