Safety and efficacy of motor imagery‐based physical activity in high‐risk pregnancy: A randomized controlled study

Objective This study aimed to investigate the acute effects of motor imagery‐based physical activity on maternal well‐being, maternal blood pressure, heart rate, oxygen saturation, fetal heart rate, and uterine contractions in women with high‐risk pregnancies. Methods This randomized controlled trial was conducted in Izmir Tepecik Education and Research Hospital from August 2023 to January 2024. Seventy‐six women with high‐risk pregnancies were randomized into two groups: a motor imagery group (n = 38, diaphragmatic‐breathing exercise and motor imagery‐based physical activity) and a control group (n = 38, diaphragmatic‐breathing exercise). Maternal well‐being was determined using the Numerical Rating Scale‐11. Digital sphygmomanometry was used to measure maternal heart rate and blood pressure, pulse oximetry for oxygen saturation, and cardiotocography for fetal heart rate and uterine contractions. Assessments were performed pre‐intervention, mid‐intervention, and post‐intervention. Results There were no significant differences in baseline characteristics between groups (P > 0.05). There was a significant main effect of time in terms of maternal well‐being and maternal heart rate (P = 0.001 and P = 0.015). In addition, there was a significant main effect of the group on oxygen saturation (P = 0.025). The overall group‐by‐time interaction was significant for maternal well‐beingm with an effect size of 0.05 (P = 0.041). Conclusion The combination of diaphragmatic‐breathing exercises and a motor imagery‐based physical activity program in women with high‐risk pregnancies was determined to have no adverse effects on the fetus, did not induce uterine contractions, and resulted in a significant improvement in maternal well‐being and oxygen saturation. Thus, imagery‐based physical activity can be used in high‐risk pregnancies where physical activity and exercise are not recommended.