In May 2018 researchers from Indonesia published the results of their study to assess the effect of Pilates exercises for decreasing pain in pregnant women. A total of 40 pregnant women were involved in the study. The individuals were divided into two groups, with 20 undertaking Pilates exercises and 20 a standard pregnancy exercise plan (control group). The Pilates exercise programme lasted for 70-80 minutes, once a week, for a period of 8 weeks. Both groups underwent a pain assessment after the exercise. Results showed that the reduction in the level of pain was significantly greater in the group of pregnant women who undertook the Pilates exercise. The researchers concluded that Pilates is an effective, healthy, and feasible method of reducing pain in pregnancy, and is therefore a beneficial alternative exercise programme for the suppression of pain in the third trimester of pregnancy.
Oktaviani I. Pilates workouts can reduce pain in pregnant women. Complement Ther Clin Pract. 2018 May;31:349-351.