Balance Disorders Related to Pregnancy

Several hormonal, anatomical and physiological changes occur in the female body during pregnancy. These changes caused by pregnancy include significant weight gain, increased ligamentous laxity and spinal lordosis, decreased neuromuscular control and abdominal muscle strength, altered biomechanics and an anterior shift in the location of the centre of mass. These alteration of pregnant woman body can lead to balance problems. Falls during pregnancy are very common. Pregnant women especially in advanced stage of pregnancy are at higher risk of falling compared to non-pregnant women. Falls during pregnancy may cause maternal injuries such as bone fractures, joint sprains, muscle strains, head injury, rupture of internal organs, abruptio placentae, rupture of the uterus and membranes and occasionally maternal death or intrauterine fetal demise. Pregnant women are hospitalized due to a fall 2,3 times more than non-pregnant reproductive-aged women. There is few evidence in a literature about postural stability but not about risk factors, that caused stability disorders. By determination of risk factors, the investigators can reduce number of falls in pregnancy.