The Effect of Body Relaxation Techniques on Pre-Eclampsia Syndrome

Hypertension in the second trimester of pregnancy is accompanied by proteinuria that is called Preeclampsia Syndrome (PES). Body relaxation is a technique which makes harmony between mind and body. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of Body Relaxation Technique (BRT) on some symptoms of Preeclampsia Syndrome (PES).

This clinical trial was conducted on 96 high-risk pregnant women who were selected by random sampling method from among women referring to community health centers of Isfahan city. The samples were divided into intervention and control groups by even and odd numbers. The intervention group members received BRT during 16 sessions. Blood pressure and proteinuria were measured and recorded before and after the intervention in both groups at the beginning and in the 36^th week of pregnancy. The collected data were analyzed.

According to the Chi-square test, the frequency of PES was 11.10% and 23.50% in the intervention and control groups, respectively (χ² = 3.95, df = 1, p = 0.046). After the intervention, there was no significant difference between the two groups in terms of the diastolic blood pressure and proteinuria. Systolic blood pressure and stress were also significantly reduced in the intervention group. However, proteinuria was not significantly different between the two groups.

Based on the results, the relaxation technique, as an easy technique, is recommended for pregnant women who are susceptible to pregnancy hypertension and preeclampsia. Moreover, as a clinical complementary method, it can be recommended for preventing the symptoms of PES.