Prevalence of Musculoskeletal Problems Among Primipara Females After Spontaneous Vaginal Delivery

Abstract

Background: Pregnancy and childbirth induce significant biomechanical and hormonal changes that predispose women to musculoskeletal problems, which may persist into the postpartum period, particularly among primiparous women following spontaneous vaginal delivery. Objective: To determine the prevalence and functional impact of musculoskeletal problems among primiparous women within one year after spontaneous vaginal delivery. Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted among 267 primiparous women in Sialkot, Pakistan, one year after spontaneous vaginal delivery. Musculoskeletal symptoms were assessed using the standardized Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire, evaluating symptoms over the past 12 months, functional limitation, and symptoms in the past seven days. Descriptive statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 26. Results: Musculoskeletal symptoms were highly prevalent, with the lower back (57.3%), hip/thigh (55.1%), upper back (39.0%), and shoulder (47.9%) being the most commonly affected regions in the past 12 months. Recent symptoms were most frequent in the lower back (60.3%) and upper back (56.9%). Functional limitation due to musculoskeletal pain was reported by more than half of participants for the lower back (55.4%) and hip/thigh (56.6%). Conclusion: Musculoskeletal problems are common and functionally limiting among primiparous women one year after spontaneous vaginal delivery, highlighting the need for early postpartum screening, ergonomic education, and targeted rehabilitation.