Effectiveness of Progressive Muscle Relaxation Therapy on Pregnancy Outcomes among Stressed and Anxious Primigravida Antenatal Mothers: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Background: Progressive muscle relaxation therapy is an anxiety and stress reducing method. Anxiety and stress during antenatal period cause many adverse effects on pregnancy outcomes; therefore require early screening and management of those conditions to improve pregnancy outcomes. Objective: Our objective was to evaluate effectiveness of progressive muscle relaxation therapy in improving pregnancy outcomes among primigravida mothers in Badulla district. Methods: A community-based cluster randomized controlled trial was conducted among 288 primigravida mothers in latter stage of second trimester who screened to have anxiety or stress or both by Depression Anxiety Stress Scale-21 (DASS-21). 144 primigravida mothers were recruited to each intervention and control arms from six selected Medical Officer of Health areas in Badulla district. Pregnancy outcomes were compared in both arms at one month post-partum by calculating Pearson’s correlation coefficient.Results: Pregnancy outcomes at one month post-partum showed significant differences in the control arm compared to the intervention arm; in caesarean section or assisted vaginal delivery (OR = 2.44; 95% CI = 1.34, 4.46), delivery of baby before 37 weeks of gestation (OR = 2.35; 95% CI = 1.31, 4.21), prolong labour (OR = 4.93; 95% CI = 1.05, 23.27) and experienced post-natal complications in babies (OR = 2.12; 95% CI = 1.03, 4.35).Conclusions: Progressive muscle relaxation therapy was effective in improving pregnancy outcomes in primigravida mothers.