Introduction: Yoga is becoming an increasingly popular practice for stress management in pregnancy, as stress is becoming more and more prevalent in people with today's lifestyles. Pregnant women are also particularly vulnerable to stress. Yoga for pregnant women combines physical exercises tailored to pregnant women, breathing techniques and meditation. Studies show that practising yoga during pregnancy can be beneficial in alleviating pregnancy ailments and improving well-being, and this can contribute to an optimal pregnancy outcome for both the woman and the baby. Purpose: In this thesis we aim to investigate the effects of practicing yoga during pregnancy and to examine how practicing yoga during pregnancy can have an effect on stress prevention. Methods: The descriptive method of work was used, based on a systematic review and synthesis of the professional and scientific literature. The literature used was not more than ten years old, with the exception of three articles, which were used because of the relevance of the topic. An analysis of the review of scientific and professional literature and research results was carried out and presented using a PRIZMA diagram. Results: We have found that yoga for pregnant women makes an important contribution to health and well-being. This practice strengthens and increases the flexibility of the muscles of the perineum, vagina and urinary sphincter, improves the posture of the mother and strengthens the muscles of the back, abdomen and pelvis. Yoga can reduce the risk of pre-eclampsia, gestational diabetes, premature intrauterine growth arrest, and improve the newborn's Apgar score. Yoga has also been shown to lower levels of anxiety and depression in pregnant women. Yoga reduces stress by acting on the hypothalamus, which inhibits the secretion of the hormone CRH and thus affects the anterior pituitary gland, which stimulates the release of the hormone ACTH. As a result, the production of adrenal hormones and cortisol is reduced, while endorphin secretion is increased, further contributing to better mental and physical health in pregnant women. Discussion and conclusion: Based on the research results, it would make sense for midwives to recommend yoga in the future as one of the methods to reduce stress and better prepare for childbirth. However, more research is needed to define the structure of yoga practice for pregnant women in a different way in order to effectively implement yoga in preparation for childbirth. This research should take into account the different health conditions of women and the stages of pregnancy to ensure a safe and appropriate practice for all pregnant women.
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