Perceptions and Clinical Encounters of Physiotherapists in Antepartum and Postpartum Care across Delhi

Background: Pregnancy induces numerous physiological and anatomical changes in a woman’s body, affecting various organs and systems. These changes often create barriers that prevent women from seeking timely professional help. Physical therapy, with its multidisciplinary approach, plays a significant role in both antepartum and postpartum care, aiming to prevent or manage the complications associated with pregnancy and childbirth. Aim and Objectives: This study explores the clinical experiences and confidence levels of physiotherapists in Delhi in managing antepartum and postpartum cases. Materials and Methods: A total of 199 physiotherapists practicing in Delhi were recruited using a convenience sampling method. A cross-sectional survey design was adopted, and data were collected through a self-administered questionnaire. A pilot study involving five expert professionals was conducted prior to the main survey, with informed consent obtained from all participants. Results: Among the participants, 43.7% had <3 years of professional experience, followed by 24.6% with 3–5 years, 15.5% with 5–10 years, and 17% with over 10 years. Most physiotherapists demonstrated moderate to full confidence in managing pregnant and postpartum women. The key areas of confidence included listening to patient complaints (36.3%), conducting subjective (36.1%) and objective (27.1%) assessments, interpreting findings (38.1%), setting patient-centred goals (35.1%), planning (35.1%), evaluating (37.1%), progressing treatment (41.2%), and discharge planning (36.1%). Conclusion: The findings indicate that physiotherapists in Delhi possess both the experience and confidence to effectively manage antepartum and postpartum care. Most professionals follow structured treatment protocols and exhibit a positive professional outlook toward maternal physiotherapy.