The Effects of Prenatal Yoga on Maternal Stress Levels and Birth Outcomes: A Prospective Cohort Study

Abstract

Background: Pregnancy represents a profound life event that often triggers significant
psychological and physiological changes. Elevated maternal stress is recognized for its
potential to negatively affect prenatal health, which could lead to complications such as preterm
birth, low birth weight, and developmental challenges in the child. Existing studies highlight
both the direct and indirect pathways through which stress impacts pregnancy, such as
hormonal fluctuations and changes in immune function.
Methods: A prospective cohort study was conducted with 300 pregnant women aged between
18 and 40 years, without high-risk pregnancy factors, who were randomly assigned to either a
prenatal yoga group or a control group receiving standard prenatal care. The yoga group
participated in a program consisting of three weekly 60-minute sessions, encompassing
stretching, mobility exercises, breathing techniques, and relaxation methods, from enrollment
until delivery.
Results: Participants demonstrated similar baseline characteristics. The yoga group
experienced a significant reduction in stress levels, with Perceived Stress Scale scores
decreasing from 24 at baseline to 14 at the end of the pregnancy, compared to a decrease from
23 to 20 in the control group. Additionally, the yoga group showed improved birth outcomes,
including a higher mean gestational age at birth (39.4 weeks vs. 38.9 weeks) and a greater
average birth weight (3400 grams vs. 3300 grams).
Conclusion: The study provides substantial evidence that prenatal yoga can effectively reduce
maternal stress and improve birth outcomes, suggesting that such interventions should be
considered for inclusion in routine prenatal care to optimize maternal and fetal health.