Physical Activity in Pregnancy Is Associated with Increased Flow-mediated Dilation

Area of Science:

• Obstetrics and Gynecology
• Cardiovascular Physiology
• Metabolic Health

Background:

• Late pregnancy involves physiological changes impacting vascular function and glucose metabolism.
• Understanding the influence of physical activity and sedentary behavior is crucial for maternal health.
• Flow-mediated dilation (FMD) is a key indicator of endothelial function.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the role of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) and sedentary behavior in FMD and glucose metabolism during late pregnancy.
• To compare FMD and metabolic markers between active and inactive pregnant women.

Main Methods:

• Seventy pregnant women in their third trimester underwent FMD measurement via Doppler ultrasonography.
• Physical activity and sedentary behavior were assessed over seven days using accelerometry.
• Women were classified as active (>150 min/week MVPA) or inactive (<150 min/week MVPA).

Main Results:

• Active pregnant women demonstrated significantly greater FMD compared to inactive women (6.5 a.u. vs 3.9 a.u.).
• MVPA in active women was inversely correlated with insulin concentrations (r = -0.556, P = 0.03).
• Sedentary behavior in inactive women was associated with altered shear rate, blood flow, and velocity, but not FMD.

Conclusions:

• Engaging in MVPA during pregnancy is linked to enhanced FMD and reduced insulin levels.
• Sedentary behavior did not show a significant association with FMD responses in this cohort.
• Promoting MVPA may be beneficial for vascular health in pregnant individuals.