Determining the Effect of Yoga Exercises on Psychological Health and Childbirth Trauma in Pregnant Women

Background This study aimed to evaluate the effects of yoga exercises on psychological health during pregnancy and their role in reducing childbirth trauma. Methods A pre-post-test matched group design was used. The sample included 64 pregnant women who applied to a maternity hospital in XXX province between November 2023 and November 2024. Inclusion criteria were being over 18 years of age, at least 16 weeks pregnant, without a psychiatric diagnosis, or a high-risk pregnancy. Participants were randomly assigned to an intervention group (n=30) and a control group (n=34). The intervention group received 45-minute yoga sessions twice a week for 5 weeks (10 sessions total), in addition to birth preparation training given to both groups. Data were collected before and after the program. This study is registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (20 June 2025, Identifier: NCT07031622). Results Yoga practice significantly increased psychological resilience and reduced anxiety, fear of childbirth, and perception of traumatic birth. The intervention contributed positively to emotional well-being and supported recovery in the postpartum period. Conclusion Yoga is an effective method to reduce childbirth-related trauma and strengthen psychological resilience during pregnancy. Integrating yoga into prenatal care programs can improve maternal mental health and birth outcomes. Health professionals should consider recommending yoga as part of comprehensive prenatal support.