Physical activity, sedentary behavior, and postnatal depressive symptoms: a review

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Health
• Mental Health
• Exercise Science

Background:

• Postnatal depression (PND) affects a significant number of mothers.
• Physical activity is known to reduce depression risk in the general population.
• The specific relationship between physical activity and PND requires further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review original research on the association between physical activity and sedentary behavior (dose and domain) and PND.
• To synthesize evidence on the impact of physical activity on maternal mental health post-birth.

Main Methods:

• Systematic search of electronic databases for relevant original research.
• Inclusion of observational and intervention studies.
• Analysis focused on physical activity and sedentary behavior dose (frequency, intensity, duration) and domain.

Main Results:

• A majority of studies indicated an inverse association between postpartum leisure-time physical activity (LTPA) and PND symptoms.
• Antenatal LTPA was also inversely associated with the presence of PND.
• Sedentary behavior showed a positive cross-sectional association with PND; evidence on occupational physical activity was mixed.

Conclusions:

• Leisure-time physical activity (LTPA) before, during, and after pregnancy may play a role in mitigating PND risk.
• Further research is necessary to establish optimal physical activity parameters (dose and domain) for PND prevention.
• Additional studies are needed to clarify the link between sedentary behavior and PND.