Effect of Balloon Blowing Exercise and Liuzijue Exercise on Peak Expiratory Flow Rate (PEFR) in Third Trimester Pregnant Women: A Comparative Study

Background: Pregnancy is associated with various anatomical and physiological changes, particularly affecting the respiratory system. During the third trimester, lung volumes and pulmonary function parameters such like Peak Expiratory Flow Rate (PEFR) are reduced. Breathing exercises are considered beneficial during third trimester of pregnancy.  Objective: To compare the effectiveness of balloon blowing exercise and Liuzijue exercise on Peak Expiratory Flow Rate (PEFR) in third-trimester pregnant women.  Methods: A comparative experimental study was conducted on third-trimester pregnant women. The participants were randomly divided into two groups: Group A (Balloon Blowing Exercise, n = 20) and Group B (Liuzijue Exercise, n = 20). PEFR was measured using a peak expiratory flow meter before and after the intervention period.  Results: Both groups showed a statistically significant improvement in PEFR following the intervention. On comparison, Group B demonstrated a significantly greater improvement in PEFR than Group A (p < 0.05), indicating the superior effectiveness of Liuzijue exercise.  Conclusion: Liuzijue exercise was found to be more effective in enhancing respiratory function involving controlled breathing, diaphragmatic activation, and relaxation.