Physiological effects of yoga asanas and pranayama on metabolic parameters, maternal, and fetal outcome in gestational diabetes

ABSTRACT

Background: Gestational diabetes affects the health of the women, the fetus, and even after birth, the baby or child. Studies related to the assessment of the effects of yoga and pranayama on metabolic parameters, maternal and fetal outcome among gestational diabetic patients are inadequate. Aim and Objectives: The aim of the present study was to assess the effects of yoga and pranayama on metabolic parameters, maternal and fetal outcome in gestational diabetes. 

Materials and Methods: A total of 162 gestational diabetic patients were recruited in the study; after removing the drop outs, 75 of them did specific yoga and pranayama (test group) for 3 months and the remaining, blood sugar-matched,  76 patients were recruited as (control group) who were not on any yoga practice. The data obtained were analyzed using appropriate statistical methods such as mean, standard deviation, and t-test for paired data and categorical data were analyzed using Chi-square test (r × c table). P value was considered significant below 0.05. Results: Analysis of data showed statistically significant difference between metabolic parameters, maternal and fetal outcome of mothers with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) between yoga group and control group P < 0.01. Conclusion: Yoga and pranayama significantly decrease blood glucose level which in turn can prevent adverse maternal and fetal outcomes of GDM. Safety during pregnancy is paramount and exercises such as low exerting forces such as yoga can be safe for both mother and fetus.

KEY WORDS: Gestational Diabetes; Yoga Asanas; Pranayama; Maternal and Fetal Outcome