Pregnant? Fall risk ahead!

Falls are the most common cause of minor injury during pregnancy, and there is an urgent need for fall prevention during pregnancy [1]. 27% of pregnant women in a study reported falling at least once during pregnancy (n=3997). Of these fallers, 35% fell two or more times, 20% sought medical care for the fall, and 21% had two or more days of restricted activity due to the fall [1]. In comparison with nonpregnant women of reproductive age, pregnant women are 2.3 times more likely to be hospitalized from a fall [2]. For every 100,000 deliveries, there are 48.9 hospitalizations of pregnant mothers due to a fall [2]. 

What are the consequences of falling while pregnant?

The risks associated with falling while pregnant are 2-fold: injury to the mother and serious consequences for the unborn child. Common injuries among the pregnant fallers included fractures, contusions, sprains. Falls were associated with increased risk of preterm labor, placental abruption, fetal distress, and fetal hypoxia. Hospitalization for a fall also increased risk of labor induction and risk of C-section. The majority of fall hospitalizations occur in the third trimester [2]. 

Why are pregnant women more likely to fall?

Pregnant women may be at increased risk of a fall because of the changes in gait, balance, and center of gravity and inability to see foot placement while walking [2]. Most falls occur during the third trimester, which is also the time of the greatest instability in posture [1]. Falls were associated with slippery floors, wearing inappropriate shoes, or failure to use safety measures such as holding onto stair handrails [1].

What can be done to prevent falls during pregnancy?

Not every pregnant individual will be high risk of falling, as many factors affect balance, including sleep habits, strength and fitness level, and the redistribution of weight in the body during pregnancy. By using a simple tool to identify which of their pregnant patients are most likely to fall, physicians can provide more personalized counseling and promote better outcomes for both mom and baby.

The ZIBRIO Stability Pro scale provides a quick and easy fall risk screening that can be incorporated into prenatal visits. The patient stands on the scale for 60 seconds to get a balance score and associated fall risk categorization. For pregnant women that are identified as high-risk of falling, simple balance exercises with the ZIBRIO BalanceCoach app may be helpful in adjusting to the changes in their body and reducing their risk of falling. 

Book a demo with us to learn more about how the ZIBRIO Pro scale can help you provide superior care to your pregnant patients.

[1] Dunning, K., LeMasters, G. & Bhattacharya, A. A Major Public Health Issue: The High Incidence of Falls During Pregnancy. Matern Child Health J 14, 720–725 (2010). https://doi-org.ezproxy.lib.purdue.edu/10.1007/s10995-009-0511-0

[2] Schiff, M. (2008), Pregnancy outcomes following hospitalisation for a fall in Washington State from 1987 to 2004. BJOG: An International Journal of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, 115: 1648-1654. https://doi-org.ezproxy.lib.purdue.edu/10.1111/j.1471-0528.2008.01905.x