Effect of a 5-Minute Mindfulness-Based Breathing Exercise Before Spinal Anesthesia on Hemodynamic Response in Elective Cesarean Section: A Prospective Randomized Controlled Trial

What this Trial Is About

Spinal anesthesia-induced hypotension is a common and significant complication affecting up to 50-80% of pregnant women undergoing elective cesarean section. This trial evaluates whether a brief 5-minute mindfulness-based breathing exercise given just before spinal anesthesia can influence blood pressure changes during surgery. The study compares this breathing technique to standard care in pregnant women aged 18 to 45 years scheduled for elective cesarean delivery. Participants will be randomly assigned to either perform the mindfulness-based breathing exercise or receive standard preoperative care. The breathing exercise involves slow diaphragmatic breathing at about six breaths per minute, guided by a trained anesthesiologist or nurse, with mindful repetition of the phrase "My body is relaxing as I exhale." Both groups receive spinal anesthesia with specific medications, and careful monitoring of heart rate and blood pressure is performed. During the study, participants will be closely observed for changes in systolic blood pressure and heart rate within 10 minutes after spinal anesthesia. Anxiety levels, incidence of early hypotension, and medication use to support blood pressure will also be measured. The trial includes standard monitoring such as ECG and oxygen saturation, with safety and response data collected throughout the procedure. Participants' involvement includes a short breathing exercise or equivalent wait time before anesthesia, with follow-up assessments during surgery.

"Effect of Pre-Spinal Mindfulness-Based Breathing Exercise on Hemodynamic Response in Elective Cesarean Section"