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Physical activity during pregnancy and fetal outcomes: a case-control study
Monica Yuri Takito1, Maria Helena D'Aquino Benício
1Departamento de Pedagogia do Movimento do Corpo Humano, Escola de Educação Física e Esporte, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brasil. mytakito@gmail.com
Revista De Saude Publica
|February 9, 2010
Summary
Engaging in mild physical activity, like walking, during the second trimester of pregnancy offers protection against low birth weight, preterm birth, and intrauterine growth restriction.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Public Health
- Maternal-Fetal Medicine
Background:
- Low birth weight, preterm birth, and intrauterine growth restriction are significant adverse pregnancy outcomes.
- Physical activity during pregnancy is increasingly recognized for its potential health benefits.
- Understanding the specific impact of physical activity in the second trimester is crucial for maternal and infant health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the association between physical activity levels during the second trimester of pregnancy and the incidence of low birth weight, preterm birth, and intrauterine growth restriction.
Main Methods:
- A case-control study was conducted in São Paulo, Brazil, involving 273 low birth weight newborns and 546 controls.
- Cases were further categorized into preterm birth and intrauterine growth restriction subgroups.
- Data were gathered through maternal interviews and medical record reviews, analyzed using logistic regression.
Main Results:
- Light physical activity exceeding 7 hours daily demonstrated a protective effect against low birth weight (adjusted OR=0.61) and intrauterine growth restriction (adjusted OR=0.51).
- A dose-response relationship was observed for both outcomes.
- Homemaking activities and leisure-time walking were identified as protective factors for low birth weight, preterm birth, and intrauterine growth restriction.
Conclusions:
- Mild physical activity, including walking, during the second trimester of pregnancy is independently associated with reduced risks of low birth weight, preterm birth, and intrauterine growth restriction.
- These findings support recommendations for moderate physical activity during pregnancy.
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