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Healthcare
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Healthy Lifestyle for Pregnant and Postpartum Women
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Healthy Lifestyle for Pregnant and Postpartum Women

A special issue of Healthcare (ISSN 2227-9032). This special issue belongs to the section "Women's Health Care".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 31 October 2025 | Viewed by 10585

Special Issue Editors

Prof. Dr. Rita Santos-Rocha

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
ESDRM-IPSANTARÉM Sport Sciences School of Rio Maior, Santarém Polytechnic University, 2001-904 Rio Maior, Portugal
Interests: impact of exercise programs on health, fitness, functionality, and quality of life; during pregnancy and postpartum; biomechanics of exercise and gait; physical activity and health promotion; women's active and healthy lifestyle; e-health
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Dr. Linda E. May

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Kinesiology, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC 27834, USA
Interests: exercise during pregnancy; body composition; oral health measures for the baby before and after birth; improving the overall health of women and children

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

An adequate, healthy and active maternal lifestyle during pregnancy and postpartum is a multigenerational public health issue. Growing evidence has been supporting the benefits of physical activity and other lifestyle factors on the health of the woman, the pregnancy, fetus, birth, and both mother and baby across the lifespan. On the contrary, women’s exposure to excessive sedentary and unhealthy behaviors such as inadequate gestational weight gain, lack of sleep or poor nutrition during and after pregnancy can affect their mental and physical health, attitudes toward food and physical activity, and healthcare-seeking behaviors. 

The guidelines for physical activity during pregnancy and postpartum have been updated in the last six years; however, most of them lack specific content covering the postpartum period, namely, the so-called fourth trimester.

Therefore, highlighting the features, outputs and outcomes of effective multidimensional interventions focused on maternal health and active lifestyles is of utmost importance. Reviews and study protocols are also welcome. This Special Issue welcomes quantitative and qualitative research from around the globe from various disciplines, including obstetrics, gynecology, midwifery, sports medicine, exercise and sports sciences, nutrition, pedagogy, sociology and psychology.

This collection supports research related to SDG 3: Good Health & Well-Being, SDG 4: Education, and SDG 5: Gender Equality.

Prof. Dr. Rita Santos-Rocha
Dr. Linda E. May
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Healthcare is an international peer-reviewed open access semimonthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2700 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • pregnancy
  • postpartum
  • women health
  • midwifery
  • lifestyle
  • health promotion
  • exercise

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Published Papers (7 papers)

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Research

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16 pages, 908 KiB  
Article
Smoking Pregnant Woman: Individual, Family, and Primary Healthcare Aspects
by Florina Ruta, Ion Mihai Georgescu, Geanina Moldovan, Laura Avram, Danusia Onisor and Zoltan Abram
Healthcare 2025, 13(9), 1005; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare13091005 - 27 Apr 2025
Viewed by 264
Abstract
Background: Smoking during pregnancy continues to be a prevalent behavior in many countries, which requires smoking cessation intervention programs. The aim of this study was to investigate individual, family, and primary healthcare aspects that may influence continued smoking during pregnancy. Methods: This cross-sectional [...] Read more.
Background: Smoking during pregnancy continues to be a prevalent behavior in many countries, which requires smoking cessation intervention programs. The aim of this study was to investigate individual, family, and primary healthcare aspects that may influence continued smoking during pregnancy. Methods: This cross-sectional study involved 413 pregnant women registered with 50 General Practitioners (GPs) in Târgu Mureş County. Women voluntarily provided data to complete a questionnaire about socio-demographic, tobacco consumption, level of understanding of the risk of smoking during pregnancy, smoking in the family environment, and their own perception of the approach to smoking in primary healthcare. GPs facilitated the participation of patients in the study and offered logistical support for the data collection sessions held in their offices. Results: revealed that 49.39% of participants smoked before pregnancy, and 39.22% continued smoking during pregnancy. Continued smoking was significantly associated with having family members who smoked (OR = 8.83; 95% CI: 2.89–26.91) and a lack of anti-smoking informational materials at GP offices (OR = 5.68; 95% CI: 1.45–22.19). Conclusion: The findings highlight the critical role of family and primary healthcare interventions in smoking cessation during pregnancy. Therefore, tailored educational interventions at primary care settings are recommended. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Healthy Lifestyle for Pregnant and Postpartum Women)
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11 pages, 631 KiB  
Article
Sexual Function After Vaginal Delivery in Primiparous Women: A Perspective in the First Months Postpartum
by Silvio Tartaglia, Ludovica Puri, Francesca Brugnoli, Federico Quintiliani, Camilla Allegrini, Vitalba Gallitelli, Valentina Esposito, Marco De Santis and Daniela Visconti
Healthcare 2025, 13(5), 566; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare13050566 - 5 Mar 2025
Viewed by 782
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Female sexual dysfunction (FSD) involves persistent issues with desire, arousal, orgasm, or pain during intercourse. The Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI), a validated 19-item questionnaire, is widely used to assess FSD. Childbirth, particularly vaginal delivery with perineal trauma, can increase FSD risk, [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Female sexual dysfunction (FSD) involves persistent issues with desire, arousal, orgasm, or pain during intercourse. The Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI), a validated 19-item questionnaire, is widely used to assess FSD. Childbirth, particularly vaginal delivery with perineal trauma, can increase FSD risk, with 41–83% of women affected at six months postpartum. However, early postpartum FSD remains underexplored. This study examines FSD risk factors in first-time mothers delivering vaginally, using longitudinal FSFI assessments before and after the delivery. Methods: A prospective observational study was conducted involving 80 primiparous women who delivered vaginally. The FSFI questionnaire was provided before childbirth and three months postpartum. We compared the group of women who developed early FSD after delivery (N = 45) with those with a normal FSFI score (>26.6). Results: Three months after vaginal delivery, participants exhibited a significant decrease in overall FSFI scores (−9.61 [95%CI: −11.6; −7.6]; p = 0.008). A total of 45 patients (56.2%) developed early FSD. Marital status emerged as a significant factor, with marriage acting as a protective factor (OR 0.27 [95%CI 0.05–1.24]; p = 0.044). Clitoral and periclitoral tears were associated with a higher risk of FSD than high-degree perineal lacerations (OR 3.02 [95%CI 1.56–6.24]; p = 0.021). Conclusions: At three months post vaginal delivery, primiparous women face a relevant risk of developing transient sexual dysfunction. Marital status and type of perineal tears are identified as key factors influencing postpartum sexual function. Further research is warranted to explore these factors comprehensively and provide timely clinical and psychological support to couples navigating the challenges of early family life. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Healthy Lifestyle for Pregnant and Postpartum Women)
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15 pages, 239 KiB  
Article
Associations Between Domains and Patterns of Sedentary Behavior with Sleep Quality and Duration in Pregnant Women
by Nada Khojah, Bethany Barone Gibbs, Saja Abdullah Alghamdi, Alawyah Alsalman, Om Kalthom Sowadi, Hadeel Saad, Ghareeb Omar Alshuwaier and Abdullah Bandar Alansare
Healthcare 2025, 13(3), 348; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare13030348 - 6 Feb 2025
Viewed by 790
Abstract
Objectives: To assess the associations of sedentary behavior (SB) with sleep quality and duration in pregnant women by trimesters and to consider SB domains and patterns. Methods: This investigation included 935 participants (age = 30.0 ± 5.6 years; first trimester = 24.1%, second [...] Read more.
Objectives: To assess the associations of sedentary behavior (SB) with sleep quality and duration in pregnant women by trimesters and to consider SB domains and patterns. Methods: This investigation included 935 participants (age = 30.0 ± 5.6 years; first trimester = 24.1%, second trimester = 33.9%, third trimester = 42.0%). The total, domains (leisure, occupational, commuting), and patterns (weekdays, weekends) of SB, as well as sleep quality and duration, were self-reported. Adjusted logistic regression models examined the associations of different SBs with the risk of poor sleep quality, not adhering to sleep duration guidelines (7–9 h/day), or being a short- or long-sleeper. Results: The odds of poor sleep quality were significantly higher by 14.2% and 7.4% for each hour increase in total and leisure SB on weekends, respectively. The odds of not adhering to sleep duration guidelines were significantly higher by 5.5% and 11.4% for each hour increase in total and leisure SB during weekdays, respectively; paradoxically, the odds of not complying with the sleep duration guidelines were significantly lower, ranging between 6.6% and 34.4% for each hour increase in total, leisure, or commuting SB on weekends. Further, when analyzed separately, the likelihood of being a short- or long-sleeper was highly variable across SB domains, with associations being more apparent in the first and third trimesters. Conclusions: The relationship between SB and healthy sleep during pregnancy was complex. These variable findings underscore the importance of considering domains and patterns of SB beyond simple total durations in future research to inform interventions and guidelines to improve sleep health during pregnancy. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Healthy Lifestyle for Pregnant and Postpartum Women)
15 pages, 607 KiB  
Article
Compliance with 24 h Movement Behavior Guidelines for Pregnant Women in Saudi Arabia: The Role of Trimester and Maternal Characteristics
by Saja Abdullah Alghamdi, Alawyah Alsalman, Om Kalthom Sowadi, Nada Khojah, Hadeel Saad, Bethany Barone Gibbs, Ghareeb Omar Alshuwaier and Abdullah Bandar Alansare
Healthcare 2024, 12(20), 2042; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare12202042 - 15 Oct 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1518
Abstract
Background: Complying with 24 h movement behavior guidelines for pregnant women may prevent pregnancy complications. This single time point, cross-sectional investigation assessed compliance with the 24 h movement behavior guidelines in pregnant women in Saudi Arabia and examined the role of trimester and [...] Read more.
Background: Complying with 24 h movement behavior guidelines for pregnant women may prevent pregnancy complications. This single time point, cross-sectional investigation assessed compliance with the 24 h movement behavior guidelines in pregnant women in Saudi Arabia and examined the role of trimester and maternal characteristics. Methods: Pregnant women (n = 935; age = 30 ± 5.6 years; first trimester = 24.1%, second trimester = 33.9%, third trimester = 42.0%) self-reported their characteristics (nationality, region, degree, occupation, smoking status, health status, having children, previous birth). The short-version International Physical Activity Questionnaire, Sedentary Behavior Questionnaire, and Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index Questionnaire measured moderate physical activity (MPA), sedentary behavior (SB), and sleep duration, respectively. Compliance with the 24 h movement behavior guidelines was reported using frequencies and percentages. Prevalence ratios compared the prevalence of compliance by trimester and maternal characteristics. Results: Approximately half of the participants did not comply with MPA or sleep duration guidelines (n = 524, [56.0%] and n = 424, [45.5%], respectively). In contrast, about two-thirds of participants (n = 648, [69.3%]) adhered to the SB guideline. Only 154 (16.5%) participants complied with all 3 24 h movement behavior guidelines. Pregnant women in their second trimester, living in Al-Ahsa Governorate, and currently smoking with a bachelor’s degree were the most likely to comply with the guidelines. Conclusions: These findings underscore the need for tailored efforts to promote healthy 24 h movement behavior guidelines for pregnant women in Saudi Arabia, especially early in pregnancy, while accounting for important maternal characteristics. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Healthy Lifestyle for Pregnant and Postpartum Women)
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8 pages, 208 KiB  
Article
Eating Behaviors during Pregnancy: A Cross-Sectional Study
by Jawaher Al Hamimi, Asma Al Shidhani, Maya Al Mamari, Ahmed Al Wahaibi and Salah T. Al Awaidy
Healthcare 2024, 12(16), 1616; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare12161616 - 13 Aug 2024
Viewed by 1797
Abstract
Background: Eating disorders are complex illnesses with serious long-term consequences. They are linked to negative outcomes such as miscarriage, low birth weight, and other obstetric and postpartum difficulties. Our study in Muscat, Oman, examines the eating habits of pregnant women who consult primary [...] Read more.
Background: Eating disorders are complex illnesses with serious long-term consequences. They are linked to negative outcomes such as miscarriage, low birth weight, and other obstetric and postpartum difficulties. Our study in Muscat, Oman, examines the eating habits of pregnant women who consult primary care physicians. In this study, our aim is to identify key sociodemographic factors linked with eating disorders in Oman. Method: We used the Eating Disorder Examination Questionnaire to assess the potential for the presence of eating disorders. Chi-Square and Fisher’s Exact tests were used to analyze relationships between improper eating behavior and independent variables. Results: The study showed that 1.6% of participants had a potential diagnosis of an eating disorder, with the most common inappropriate behavior being binge eating at a prevalence of 18.8%. A pre-gestational low Body Mass Index (BMI) was associated with a higher prevalence of binge eating during pregnancy. Additionally, we found that pregnant women who were working were more prone to self-induced vomiting. High BMI before pregnancy was significantly associated with various inappropriate eating behaviors, such as restraint behavior (p = 0.000), shape concern (p = 0.000), weight concern (p = 0.040), eating (p = 0.045), laxative use (p = 0.020), and excessive exercise (p = 0.043). Conclusion: The study reveals a high prevalence of eating disorders in pregnancy. Less educated women exhibit higher laxative use, while working women show more instances of binge eating and self-induced vomiting. These findings emphasize the critical need to prioritize targeted interventions and support for vulnerable pregnant women. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Healthy Lifestyle for Pregnant and Postpartum Women)
14 pages, 1030 KiB  
Article
Comparison of Health Parameters in Postpartum Diastasis Recti: A Randomized Control Trial of SEMG Biofeedback-Assisted Core Strengthening Exercises with Kinesiotaping vs. Non-Assisted Exercises
by Ujala Afzal, Quratulain Saeed, Muhammad Nabeel Anwar, Sanna Pervaiz, Manahil Shahid, Rimsha Javed, Muhammad Umair Ali and Seung Won Lee
Healthcare 2024, 12(16), 1567; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare12161567 - 7 Aug 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2639
Abstract
Current medical treatments for diastasis recti often involve exercises to strengthen the core muscles, along with abdominal binders or supports. However, there is limited evidence comparing the effectiveness of surface electromyography (SEMG) biofeedback-assisted core strengthening exercises combined with kinesiotaping to other approaches. This [...] Read more.
Current medical treatments for diastasis recti often involve exercises to strengthen the core muscles, along with abdominal binders or supports. However, there is limited evidence comparing the effectiveness of surface electromyography (SEMG) biofeedback-assisted core strengthening exercises combined with kinesiotaping to other approaches. This study aimed to assess the impact of three interventions on core strength, inter-rectus distance, and quality of life in postpartum women with diastasis recti. The interventions included core strengthening exercises with kinesiotaping and SEMG biofeedback-assisted core strengthening with kinesiotaping. This randomized controlled trial (NCT05897255) included 24 postpartum women divided into three groups. We measured inter-rectus distance, quality of life using the Short Form Health Survey 36, and core strength using the McGill torso battery test. The SEMG biofeedback provided auditory and visual cues. We used one-way analysis of variance to compare outcomes between groups, while a t-test for within-group analysis. Both the SEMG biofeedback-assisted and non-assisted core strengthening exercises with kinesiotaping groups showed significantly greater improvements in energy, bodily pain, general health, physical functioning, and limitations due to physical problems than the core strengthening group. Additionally, the SEMG biofeedback-assisted group demonstrated a greater reduction in inter-rectus distance. There were no statistically significant differences in core strength improvement among the three groups. Core strengthening exercises with SEMG-assisted kinesiotaping were superior to core strengthening alone in reducing inter-rectus distance, enhancing physical function, energy levels, and general health, and decreasing bodily pain and limitations due to physical problems. Core strength improvements were similar across all groups. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Healthy Lifestyle for Pregnant and Postpartum Women)
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Review

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34 pages, 725 KiB  
Review
Barriers and Facilitators of Physical Activity in Pregnancy and Postpartum Among Iranian Women: A Scoping Review
by Linda E. May, Sarah J. Moss, Anna Szumilewicz, Rita Santos-Rocha and Najmeh A. Shojaeian
Healthcare 2024, 12(23), 2416; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare12232416 - 2 Dec 2024
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1838
Abstract
Inactivity during pregnancy and postpartum is largely a result of women’s attitudes and misunderstandings of physical activity, especially in Iran. This scoping review critically assesses the barriers and facilitators influencing physical activity among pregnant and postpartum Iranian women to provide the basis for [...] Read more.
Inactivity during pregnancy and postpartum is largely a result of women’s attitudes and misunderstandings of physical activity, especially in Iran. This scoping review critically assesses the barriers and facilitators influencing physical activity among pregnant and postpartum Iranian women to provide the basis for future physical activity interventions. Ten databases and platforms were searched up to 1 June 2024: Medline, SportDISCUS, PsycINFO, EMBASE, CINAHL, Cochrane Review Database, Clinical Trial, SID, ISC, and Web of Science. Grey literature sources were included to retrieve original publications on barriers and facilitators during pregnancy and postpartum among Iranian women. The search resulted in 2470 identified studies screened for inclusion criteria. After screening both abstracts and full texts, 33 of the studies were included, and data were extracted and charted. Findings were summarized in alignment with the objectives. The results show that the basic physical activity barriers are intrapersonal, interpersonal, and environmental factors. Facilitating factors include using E-learning resources and combined interventions to educate women and provide awareness of the existence of exercise classes. Social and emotional support by family members and other women in the same situation can be effective. Overall, the study of obstacles to and enablers of physical activity during pregnancy and postpartum is ongoing. In addition to highlighting the present situation in Iran, this study identifies further opportunities for future research on the development of appropriate interventions to reduce the barriers and strengthen the facilitators for physical activity among pregnant and postpartum Iranian women with trained groups, including skilled healthcare providers. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Healthy Lifestyle for Pregnant and Postpartum Women)
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