International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health

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15 pages, 4280 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Examining the Effects of Gestational Physical Activity and Hofbauer Cell Polarization on Angiogenic Factors

by Alexandra D. Goudreau, Layli Tanara, Velislava Tzaneva and Kristi B. Adamo

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2023, 20(13), 6298; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20136298 - 4 Jul 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2072

Abstract

While gestational physical activity (PA) has demonstrated health benefits for both birthing parent and fetus, the mechanisms still need to be fully understood. Placental macrophages, or Hofbauer cells (HBCs), comprise a heterogenous population containing inflammatory (CD206-) and anti-inflammatory (CD206+) phenotypes. Similar to other [...] Read more.

While gestational physical activity (PA) has demonstrated health benefits for both birthing parent and fetus, the mechanisms still need to be fully understood. Placental macrophages, or Hofbauer cells (HBCs), comprise a heterogenous population containing inflammatory (CD206-) and anti-inflammatory (CD206+) phenotypes. Similar to other tissue-resident macrophages (TRMs), HBCs are potential mediators of angiogenesis due to their secretion of both pro- and anti-angiogenic factors, including FGF2, VEGF, and SPRY2. While PA is associated with an increase in the proportion of VEGF- and FGF2-producing CD206+ macrophages in other tissues, the phenotypes producing FGF2, VEGF, and SPRY2 in the placenta and the associated relationships with gestational PA have not been studied. Using accelerometry, pregnant participants were classified as physically active or inactive in mid- and late-gestation. Term placenta tissue was collected at delivery and used for Western blotting and immunofluorescence to examine the protein expression of FGF2 and SPRY2, and to localize FGF2 in histological samples, respectively. Primary cultures of HBCs were used to examine the phenotypic differences in FGF2, SPRY2, and VEGF production. While no differences in the placental expression of SPRY2, total FGF2, or high-molecular-weight FGF2 were observed based on PA status, active individuals had significantly reduced levels of low-molecular-weight FGF2. Additionally, HBCs of all polarizations produce VEGF, FGF2, and SPRY2, and can form intercellular junctions and multinucleated giant cells. These findings suggest a possible relationship between PA and HBC-driven angiogenesis, providing an avenue for future exploration. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical Activity during Pregnancy)

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9 pages, 859 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Women’s Knowledge and Perceptions of the Effect of Exercise during Pregnancy: A Cross-Sectional Study

by Vilma Dudonienė and Raija Kuisma

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2023, 20(3), 1822; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20031822 - 19 Jan 2023

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2652

Abstract

Background: Many women may not be aware of the effect of exercise during pregnancy. The objective of this study was to explore the knowledge and perceptions of the effect of exercise and compare whether there was a difference between women who were pregnant [...] Read more.

Background: Many women may not be aware of the effect of exercise during pregnancy. The objective of this study was to explore the knowledge and perceptions of the effect of exercise and compare whether there was a difference between women who were pregnant at the time of the study, who were not pregnant but had given birth in the past, and those who had never been pregnant and had never given birth. Methods: A cohort of 291 women, aged 18–55 years, participated in this cross-sectional study. Ninety-one (31.3%) women were pregnant at the time of the study; 97 (33.3%) were not pregnant but had given birth in the past, and 103 (35.4%) were not pregnant and had never given birth. This was a survey by an on-line questionnaire. Results: Only 24.4 % of respondents were aware of the effect of exercise in pregnancy, 44% were not aware of the effect of exercise in pregnancy, and 52.6% did not know if exercise interventions could be prescribed during pregnancy. The perceived aims of exercise, reported by the women, were to keep the body fit (58%), to reduce low back and pelvic pain (55%), and to facilitate childbirth (51%). Conclusions: Women who were not pregnant but had given birth were significantly less aware of the effect of exercise than women who were pregnant at the time of the study or not pregnant and had never given birth. The internet was the most common source of information about exercise among all respondents. Almost all women in the study felt the need for more knowledge about the effect of exercise during pregnancy. Therefore, exercise specialists must inform and educate women about the benefits of exercise during pregnancy. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical Activity during Pregnancy)

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10 pages, 2554 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Activity Restriction and Hospitalization in Pregnancy: Can Bed-Rest Exercise Prevent Deconditioning? A Narrative Review

by Montse Palacio and Michelle F. Mottola

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2023, 20(2), 1454; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20021454 - 13 Jan 2023

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2386

Abstract

Evidence suggests that exercise during pregnancy is beneficial to both parent and fetus. However, there are high-risk pregnancy conditions that may warrant hospitalization. In our narrative review, we first describe the clinical implications for activity restriction in pregnancy, the effects of hospitalization, and [...] Read more.

Evidence suggests that exercise during pregnancy is beneficial to both parent and fetus. However, there are high-risk pregnancy conditions that may warrant hospitalization. In our narrative review, we first describe the clinical implications for activity restriction in pregnancy, the effects of hospitalization, and the impact of bed rest on non-pregnant individuals. We provide examples of a 30 min bed-rest exercise program for hospitalized pregnant patients using the principal of suggested frequency, intensity, time (duration) of activity, and type of activity (FITT) using a resistance tool while in bed. If the individual is able to ambulate, we recommend short walks around the ward. Every minute counts and activity should be incorporated into a program at least 3 times per week, or every day if possible. As in all exercise programs, motivation and accountability are essential. Flexibility in timing of the exercise intervention is important due to the scheduling of medical assessments that may occur throughout the day for these hospitalized patients. Evidence suggests that by improving physical and emotional health through a bed-rest exercise program during a hospitalized pregnancy may help the individual resume demanding daily activity in the postpartum period and improve quality of life once birth has occurred. More research is necessary to improve the health of those individuals who are hospitalized during pregnancy, with follow up and support into the postpartum period. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical Activity during Pregnancy)

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18 pages, 4372 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Gestational Exercise Antagonises the Impact of Maternal High-Fat High-Sucrose Diet on Liver Mitochondrial Alterations and Quality Control Signalling in Male Offspring

by Jelena Stevanović-Silva, Jorge Beleza, Pedro Coxito, Paulo J. Oliveira, António Ascensão and José Magalhães

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2023, 20(2), 1388; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20021388 - 12 Jan 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1883

Abstract

Maternal high-caloric nutrition and related gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) are relevant modulators of the intrauterine environment, increasing the risk of liver metabolic alterations in mothers and offspring. In contrast, as a non-pharmacological approach against metabolic disorders, exercise is highly recommended in GDM treatment. [...] Read more.

Maternal high-caloric nutrition and related gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) are relevant modulators of the intrauterine environment, increasing the risk of liver metabolic alterations in mothers and offspring. In contrast, as a non-pharmacological approach against metabolic disorders, exercise is highly recommended in GDM treatment. We analysed whether gestational exercise (GE) protects mothers from diet-induced GDM metabolic consequences and mitigates liver mitochondrial deleterious alterations in their 6-week-old male offspring. Female Sprague Dawley rats were fed with control or high-fat high-sucrose (HFHS) diet and kept sedentary or submitted to GE. Male offspring were sedentary and fed with control diet. Sedentary HFHS mothers and their offspring showed impaired hepatic mitochondrial biogenesis and morphological evidence of mitochondrial remodelling. In contrast, GE-related beneficial effects were demonstrated by upregulation of mitochondrial biogenesis signalling markers and mitochondrial fusion proteins and downregulation of mitochondrial fission protein. Alterations in miR-34a, miR-130b, and miR-494, associated with epigenetic regulation of mitochondrial biogenesis, suggested that GE is a more critical modulator of intergenerational changes in miRs expression than the maternal diet. Our data showed that GE positively modulated the altered hepatic mitochondrial biogenesis and dynamics markers and quality control signalling associated with maternal HFHS-diet-related GDM in mothers and offspring. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical Activity during Pregnancy)

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11 pages, 866 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Does Appearance Matter during Pregnancy? A Cross-Sectional Study of Body Satisfaction from Pre-Pregnancy to Late Gestation

by Emilie Mass Dalhaug and Lene Annette Hagen Haakstad

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(23), 16375; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph192316375 - 6 Dec 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1818

Abstract

Few studies have explored the associations between body satisfaction and physical activity and weight gain during pregnancy, and none have been conducted in Scandinavia. Hence, the aim of the present study was to evaluate changes in body satisfaction from pre-pregnancy to late pregnancy [...] Read more.

Few studies have explored the associations between body satisfaction and physical activity and weight gain during pregnancy, and none have been conducted in Scandinavia. Hence, the aim of the present study was to evaluate changes in body satisfaction from pre-pregnancy to late pregnancy and investigate whether this differed according to parity. We also wanted to explore the association between body satisfaction and physical activity and weight gain among pregnant women in Norway. This cross-sectional survey used an electronic questionnaire to assess physical activity level, weight gain and women’s satisfaction with body weight and size. In total, 150 pregnant women answered the questionnaire. Related-samples Wilcoxon signed rank tests, Mann–Whitney U tests and chi-square tests were used to answer our research questions. The proportion of women who were dissatisfied with their body weight and shape increased from pre-pregnancy to late gestation (body weight p = 0.030 and body shape p = 0.040). Body dissatisfaction before and during pregnancy was linked to weight gain above recommendations. Characterising oneself as physically active prior to pregnancy was associated with satisfaction with body shape pre-pregnancy. Given that mothers strongly influence how a child will judge their body later in life, the results of this study underline the importance of addressing these issues during pregnancy. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical Activity during Pregnancy)

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12 pages, 1154 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Exercise, Mediterranean Diet Adherence or Both during Pregnancy to Prevent Postpartum Depression—GESTAFIT Trial Secondary Analyses

by Marta Flor-Alemany, Jairo H. Migueles, Inmaculada Alemany-Arrebola, Virginia A. Aparicio and Laura Baena-García

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(21), 14450; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph192114450 - 4 Nov 2022

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 3996

Abstract

Targeting lifestyle behaviors during pregnancy is crucial to prevent the highly prevalent postpartum depression and its consequences. In these secondary analyses of an intervention trial to investigate the effects of concurrent exercise training on postpartum depression, we aimed to investigate the potential role [...] Read more.

Targeting lifestyle behaviors during pregnancy is crucial to prevent the highly prevalent postpartum depression and its consequences. In these secondary analyses of an intervention trial to investigate the effects of concurrent exercise training on postpartum depression, we aimed to investigate the potential role of Mediterranean diet (MD) adherence on the exercise effects. A total of 85 pregnant women met the per-protocol criteria (exercise n = 46, control n = 39). The exercise program was delivered in 60 min sessions, 3 days/week, from the 17th gestational week until birth. Women’s dietary habits were assessed with a food frequency questionnaire. The Mediterranean Food Pattern (an MD index) was derived from it to assess MD adherence. We used the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale to assess postpartum depression. The postpartum depression score was not statistically different between control and exercise groups (p > 0.05). A higher consumption of fruits (β = −0.242, p = 0.022), lower intake of red meat and subproducts (β = 0.244, p = 0.020), and a greater MD adherence (β = −0.236, p = 0.027) were associated with lower levels of postpartum depression. Greater adherence to the MD during pregnancy was associated with fewer depressive symptoms and a lower risk of postpartum depression. Postnatal depression was not reduced by prenatal exercise. Promoting fruit consumption while controlling the intake of red meat during pregnancy might prevent postnatal depression. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical Activity during Pregnancy)

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13 pages, 384 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Individual Characteristics and Pain Sensitivity during Pregnancy—A Cross-Sectional Study in Pregnant and Non-Pregnant Women

by Katarzyna Leźnicka, Maciej Pawlak, Agata Gasiorowska, Aleksandra Jażdżewska, Dominika Wilczyńska, Paulina Godlewska, Anna Lubkowska, Monika Chudecka, Agnieszka Maciejewska-Skrendo, Rita Santos-Rocha and Anna Szumilewicz

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(21), 14151; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph192114151 - 29 Oct 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1835

Abstract

The aim of the study was to describe the characteristics and factors related to pain perception in pregnant women, such as optimism, personality traits, and fear of developing COVID-19 consequences. Sixty-six pregnant women aged 23 to 42 years participated in the study, and [...] Read more.

The aim of the study was to describe the characteristics and factors related to pain perception in pregnant women, such as optimism, personality traits, and fear of developing COVID-19 consequences. Sixty-six pregnant women aged 23 to 42 years participated in the study, and the comparison group consisted of n = 59 non-pregnant female students aged 19 to 23 years. Pressure pain threshold and pain tolerance were measured with an algometer. To assess psychological characteristics, the Life-Orientation Test-Revised was used to assess optimism, the Fear of COVID-19 Scale was used to assess COVID-19 anxiety, and the Ten-Item Personality Inventory was applied to assess personality traits in a five-factor model. The main results of the study showed that pain tolerance was significantly lower in both dominant and non-dominant hand pregnant women than in the comparison group. The studied pregnant women had higher scores for conscientiousness, fear of COVID-19, and optimism compared with the non-pregnant women. Regression analysis showed that the variability in pain perception among pregnant women could not be explained by individual differences in personality traits, optimism, and fear of COVID-19. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical Activity during Pregnancy)

12 pages, 675 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Effect of Online Supervised Exercise throughout Pregnancy on the Prevention of Gestational Diabetes in Healthy Pregnant Women during COVID-19 Pandemic: A Randomized Clinical Trial

by Ane Uria-Minguito, Cristina Silva-José, Miguel Sánchez-Polán, Ángeles Díaz-Blanco, Fátima García-Benasach, Vanessa Carrero Martínez, Irune Alzola and Ruben Barakat

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(21), 14104; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph192114104 - 28 Oct 2022

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 2300

Abstract

(1) Background: to examine the effect of an online supervised exercise program during pregnancy on the prevention of GDM, and on maternal and childbirth outcomes. (2) Methods: we conducted a randomized clinical trial (NCT04563065) in 260 pregnant women without obstetric contraindications who were [...] Read more.

(1) Background: to examine the effect of an online supervised exercise program during pregnancy on the prevention of GDM, and on maternal and childbirth outcomes. (2) Methods: we conducted a randomized clinical trial (NCT04563065) in 260 pregnant women without obstetric contraindications who were randomized into two study groups: intervention group (IG, N = 130) or control group (CG, N = 130). An online supervised exercise program was conducted from 8–10 to 38–39 weeks of pregnancy. (3) Results: no significant differences were found at baseline in maternal characteristics; nevertheless, certain outcomes showed a favorable trend towards the IG. A lower number and percentage of GDM cases were found in the IG compared to the CG (N = 5/4.9% vs. N = 17/16.8%, p = 0.006). Similarly, fewer cases of excessive maternal weight gain (N = 12/11.8% vs. N = 31/30.7%, p = 0.001) were found in the IG, and a lower percentage of instrumental deliveries (N = 8/11.3% vs. N = 13/15.1%) and c-sections (N = 7/9.9% vs. N = 20/23.3%, p = 0.046). (4) Conclusions: an online supervised exercise program can be a preventative tool for GDM in healthy pregnant women. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical Activity during Pregnancy)

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12 pages, 937 KiB

Open AccessArticle

To Be Active or to Stop? A Cross-Sectional Retrospective Study Exploring Provider Advice and Patient Fears Surrounding Physical Activity in Pregnancies Complicated by Fetal Growth Restriction

by Rachel A. Tinius, Jill M. Maples, Mark A. Schafer, Alissa Paudel, Kimberly B. Fortner, Nikki B. Zite and Taniya S. Nagpal

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(10), 6076; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19106076 - 17 May 2022

Viewed by 2326

Abstract

Exercise guidance for women with pregnancies complicated by fetal growth restriction (FGR) is vague, despite the fact that physical activity during pregnancy improves placental development, placental blood flow, and encourages healthy fetal growth. The goal of this study is to test the hypothesis [...] Read more.

Exercise guidance for women with pregnancies complicated by fetal growth restriction (FGR) is vague, despite the fact that physical activity during pregnancy improves placental development, placental blood flow, and encourages healthy fetal growth. The goal of this study is to test the hypothesis that women with pregnancies complicated by FGR are fearful of physical activity and are being given unclear or limited advice from healthcare providers. Participants (N = 78) (women who delivered an infant diagnosed with FGR within the past 5 years) took an electronic survey including demographic information, pregnancy information, provider advice recall, and other health-related information relevant to growth-restricted pregnancies. Quantitative and qualitative (post-positivism paradigm) methods were employed to analyze the data. When asked specifically about how the FGR diagnosis impacted their activity levels, nearly 50% of participants said the diagnosis led them to decrease their activity levels. Participants reported that healthcare providers who do discuss activity with pregnant patients with FGR suggest low-intensity activities or ceasing activity, although the majority of providers did not discuss activity at all. More fears surrounding physical activity were reported post-FGR diagnosis, including worrying about fetal growth and development and causing fetal harm when engaging in physical activity. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical Activity during Pregnancy)

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19 pages, 992 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Active Pregnancy: A Physical Exercise Program Promoting Fitness and Health during Pregnancy—Development and Validation of a Complex Intervention

by Rita Santos-Rocha, Marta Fernandes de Carvalho, Joana Prior de Freitas, Jennifer Wegrzyk and Anna Szumilewicz

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(8), 4902; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19084902 - 18 Apr 2022

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 4560

Abstract

Physical activity during pregnancy is a public health issue. In the view of reproducibility and the successful implementation of exercise interventions, reporting the quality of such study design must be ensured. The objective of this study was to develop and validate a physical [...] Read more.

Physical activity during pregnancy is a public health issue. In the view of reproducibility and the successful implementation of exercise interventions, reporting the quality of such study design must be ensured. The objective of this study was to develop and validate a physical exercise program promoting fitness and health during pregnancy. A qualitative methodological study was carried out. For the description of the exercise program, the Consensus on Exercise Reporting Template (CERT) was used. For the validation of the program, the revised guideline of the Criteria for Reporting the Development and Evaluation of Complex Interventions in Health Care (CReDECI2) was followed and went through three stages of development, piloting, and evaluation. The customizable exercise program was designed and validated by exercise and health specialists based on evidence-based, international recommendations and supported by different educational tools to be implemented by qualified exercise professionals in health and fitness settings. A 12-week testing intervention addressing a group of 29 pregnant women was carried out. The program’s feasibility was subsequently evaluated by all the pregnant women. The CReDECI2 process guides practitioners and researchers in developing and evaluating complex educational interventions. The presented intervention may assist exercise specialists, health professionals, and researchers in planning, promoting, and implementing a prenatal exercise program. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical Activity during Pregnancy)

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14 pages, 521 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Influence of Maternal Aerobic Exercise, Blood DHA and EPA Concentrations on Maternal Lipid Profiles

by Cody J. Strom, Samantha M. McDonald, Mary-Margaret Remchak, Kimberly A. Kew, Blake R. Rushing, Joseph A. Houmard, David A. Tulis, Roman Pawlak, George A. Kelley, Lisa Chasan-Taber, Edward Newton, Christy Isler, James DeVente, Madigan Raper and Linda E. May

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(6), 3550; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19063550 - 16 Mar 2022

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 2617

Abstract

Exercise and polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) supplementation independently improve lipid profiles. The influence of both exercise and PUFAs on lipids during pregnancy remains unknown. This study evaluated exercise, docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) concentrations on lipids during pregnancy. Participants were randomized [...] Read more.

Exercise and polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) supplementation independently improve lipid profiles. The influence of both exercise and PUFAs on lipids during pregnancy remains unknown. This study evaluated exercise, docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) concentrations on lipids during pregnancy. Participants were randomized to aerobic exercise or control groups. From 16 weeks gestation until delivery, groups met 3x/week; exercisers performed moderate-intensity aerobic activity, controls performed low-intensity stretching and breathing. At 16 and 36 weeks’ gestation, maternal blood was analyzed for lipids (total cholesterol (TC), high-density lipoprotein (HDL), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), triglycerides (TG)), DHA and EPA. In intent-to-treat analysis, the aerobic group (n = 20), relative to controls (n = 10), exhibited a higher HDL change across gestation (p = 0.03). In a per protocol analysis, the aerobic group, relative to controls, exhibited 21.2% lower TG at 36 weeks (p = 0.04). After controlling for 36-week DHA and EPA, exercise dose predicts 36 weeks’ TG (F (1,36) = 6.977, p = 0.012, r² = 0.16). Aerobic exercise normalizes late pregnancy TG. During pregnancy, exercise dose controls the rise in TG, therefore maintaining normal levels. DHA and EPA do not have measurable effects on lipids. Regardless of PUFA levels, exercise at recommended levels maintains appropriate TG levels in pregnant women. Normal TG levels are critical for pregnancy outcomes, and further studies are warranted to investigate this association in broader populations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical Activity during Pregnancy)

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14 pages, 745 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Delphi Study to Identify Research Priorities Regarding Physical Activity, Sedentary Behavior and Sleep in Pregnancy

by Áine Brislane, Melanie J. Hayman and Margie H. Davenport

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(5), 2909; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19052909 - 2 Mar 2022

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 3181

Abstract

This study aimed to produce a list of the top 10 research priorities regarding physical activity, sedentary behavior, and sleep in pregnancy. Using the Delphi methodology, pregnant/postpartum individuals (N = 118), exercise professionals and healthcare providers (N = 55) listed up [...] Read more.

This study aimed to produce a list of the top 10 research priorities regarding physical activity, sedentary behavior, and sleep in pregnancy. Using the Delphi methodology, pregnant/postpartum individuals (N = 118), exercise professionals and healthcare providers (N = 55) listed up to 10 questions perceived as unanswered regarding physical activity, sedentary behavior, and sleep in pregnancy (Round 1). Respondents rated the proposed questions on a Likert importance scale (Round 2), and the sum of ratings received were totaled. Questions of priority regarding physical activity among pregnant/postpartum individuals (N = 67), healthcare providers and exercise professionals (N = 22) pertained to exercise prescription, impact of exercise on maternal and fetal outcomes and impact of exercise on pregnancy conditions, special population groups and clinical education and access to information. Sedentary behavior priorities included the impact of sedentary behavior on maternal and fetal outcomes, sedentary recommendations and exercise and sedentary positioning. Sleep research priorities included the impact of pregnancy on sleep, safety, sleeping aids and the effect of exercise on sleep. Pregnant/postpartum women, healthcare providers and exercise professionals prioritized questions that have in part been addressed by existing research, highlighting a need for improved knowledge translation from research to practice. They have also identified novel questions that warrant prioritization within future research. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical Activity during Pregnancy)

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24 pages, 2932 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Determinants of Changes in Women’s and Men’s Physical Activity and Sedentary Behavior across the Transition to Parenthood: A Focus Group Study

by Vickà Versele, Femke Marijn Stok, Anna Dieberger, Tom Deliens, Dirk Aerenhouts, Benedicte Deforche, Annick Bogaerts, Roland Devlieger and Peter Clarys

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(4), 2421; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19042421 - 19 Feb 2022

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2732

Abstract

Background: Becoming a parent may cohere with drastic changes in physical activity (PA) and sedentary behavior (SB). A clear understanding of determinants of changes in PA and SB during pregnancy and postpartum is needed to facilitate the development of tailored family-based interventions. Methods: [...] Read more.

Background: Becoming a parent may cohere with drastic changes in physical activity (PA) and sedentary behavior (SB). A clear understanding of determinants of changes in PA and SB during pregnancy and postpartum is needed to facilitate the development of tailored family-based interventions. Methods: Thirteen focus group discussions targeting determinants of changes in PA and SB behavior were conducted, involving a total of 74 expecting and first-time parents. A semi-structured question guide was used to facilitate the discussions. Results: Four main levels of determinants were identified: the individual (including psychological, situational and biological determinants), interpersonal, environmental and policy level. Some determinants were mentioned to be a barrier (e.g., “barriers to self-care”) while others were a facilitator (e.g., “weight control”). Determinants were related to both PA and SB and applicable during pregnancy as well as postpartum (e.g., “self-regulation”), or only related to one behavior and/or one period (e.g., “feeding baby”). Some were described by both parents (e.g., “parenthood perceptions”), whereas others were mentioned by women (e.g., “PA knowledge”) or men (e.g., “time opportunities”) only. Conclusions: Focus should be given to interventions aimed at improving parents’ self-regulation skills and support on how to cope with interpersonal and situational constraints as well as parenthood perceptions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical Activity during Pregnancy)

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Review

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36 pages, 711 KiB

Open AccessReview

Can Group Exercise Programs Improve Health Outcomes in Pregnant Women? An Updated Systematic Review

by Rebeca de Castro, Raul Antunes, Diogo Mendes, Anna Szumilewicz and Rita Santos-Rocha

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(8), 4875; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19084875 - 17 Apr 2022

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 4807

Abstract

Current scientific evidence supports the recommendation to initiate or continue physical exercise in healthy pregnant women. Group exercise programs have positive effects on improving health, well-being, and social support. In 2015, a systematic review was provided to evaluate the evidence on the effectiveness [...] Read more.

Current scientific evidence supports the recommendation to initiate or continue physical exercise in healthy pregnant women. Group exercise programs have positive effects on improving health, well-being, and social support. In 2015, a systematic review was provided to evaluate the evidence on the effectiveness of group exercise programs in improving pregnant women’s and newborns’ health outcomes and to assess the content of the programs. This review aims to update this knowledge between 2015 and 2020. The exercise program designs were analyzed with the Consensus of Exercise Reporting Template (CERT) model, the compliance with the current guidelines, and effectiveness in the maternal health and fitness parameters. Three databases were used to conduct literature searches. Thirty-one randomized control trials were selected for analysis. All studies followed a supervised group exercise program including aerobic, resistance, pelvic floor training, stretching, and relaxation sections. Group interventions during pregnancy improved health and fitness outcomes for the women and newborns, although some gaps were identified in the interventions. Multidisciplinary teams of exercise and health professionals should advise pregnant women that group exercise improves a wide range of health outcomes for them and their newborns. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical Activity during Pregnancy)

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