Effect of diaphragmatic breathing exercise on psychological parameters in gestational diabetes: A randomised controlled trial

Abstract

Introduction: Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM) affects approximately 12% of women all over the world and its control is important. Diaphragmatic breathing exercises are one of the approaches being used for pregnant women with gestational diabetes to help prenatal attachment and reduce depression, anxiety and stress. Methods: This randomised controlled trial of women with gestational diabetes randomly allocated 60 women into either an intervention group or a control group. Over a period of 30 days, the intervention group was asked to practice diaphragmatic breathing exercises for 5 min, once a day. Individuals in the control group were invited to talk about their pregnancy twice during the same time period. Demographic and clinical data were collected using a pregnancy identification form. Outcome measures included the Depression Anxiety Stress Scale (DASS), and Prenatal Attachment Inventory (PAI). Results: The mean age of in the intervention and control groups was 30.6 +/- 3.3 and 31.3 +/- 3.1, respectively, while the mean gestational age was 27.2 +/- 0.8 and 27.2 +/- 1.0, respectively. The increase in PAI value on day 30 compared to day 1 was more significant in the intervention group than in the control group (p = .000). The rate of decrease in the total DASS score on day 30 compared to day 1 was significantly higher in the intervention group than in the control group (p = .000). Conclusion: The results of the study indicate that diaphragmatic breathing exercises appear to provide positive effects on psychological state and may increase levels of maternal-foetal attachment.