Perfil do conhecimento de mulheres sobre a atuação do fisioterapeuta em obstetrícia: estudo transversal

Abstract

Physiotherapy in obstetrics encompasses preparation for childbirth, care during labor, and the postpartum period. Despite advances in physiotherapy for women's health in obstetrics, women's knowledge of the benefits of physiotherapy interventions throughout the pregnancy and postpartum cycle is believed to be limited. Objectives: This study aimed to assess Brazilian women's knowledge of the role of physiotherapists in obstetrics. Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive analysis was conducted, with online data collection, involving Brazilian women aged 18 and older. The questionnaire included socioeconomic and demographic information, obstetric and gynecological history, general knowledge, and knowledge of physiotherapy during pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period. Results: Among the 300 participants, the majority were from the Southeast region, with a mean age of 33 years and a predominance of women with more than 11 years of education. Approximately 30% had a background in healthcare. Participants demonstrated knowledge of the general benefits of physical therapy during pregnancy and the postpartum period, especially for pain relief and urinary incontinence prevention. However, there was a lack of knowledge regarding specific techniques, such as perineal massage. Waist trainers were incorrectly identified by 46.7% as effective in treating abdominal diastasis. Only a small proportion reported receiving physical therapy during pregnancy (3.7%), childbirth (0.3%), or postpartum (0.6%). Discussion: Significant gaps remain regarding the resources used by physical therapists and incorrect information, such as the use of waist trainers to treat diastasis. The low frequency of physical therapy follow-up during different periods of maternity suggests underutilization of these services, possibly associated with a lack of access to these professionals. These findings reinforce the need for educational initiatives and policies that promote greater visibility and integration of physical therapy in women's health care. Conclusion: Despite some knowledge about physiotherapy in women's health, gaps and misinformation persist among participants regarding obstetrics. The low prevalence of physiotherapy care highlights the need to expand access to services and strengthen educational initiatives that value the role of physiotherapists in obstetric care.