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Options in Pregnancy to Increase ActiveLy Sitting (OPALS) Feasibility Study
Caterina Fazzi1,2, Fiona C Denison1, David H Saunders3
1Tommy's Centre for Maternal and Fetal Health, MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, Queen's Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH16 4TJ, UK.
Summary
This study explored a home-based exercise program for morbidly obese pregnant women. While compliance was low, participants felt better, suggesting potential benefits with added supervision.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Maternal-Fetal Medicine
- Public Health
Background:
- Obesity in pregnancy is linked to adverse outcomes.
- Previous physical activity interventions for obese pregnant women have shown limited success.
- Home-based light-intensity activity may benefit morbidly obese pregnant women.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the feasibility of a home-based exercise intervention for morbidly obese pregnant women.
- To evaluate participant engagement and perceived benefits of the intervention.
Main Methods:
- The OPALS Feasibility Study recruited pregnant women with BMI ≥ 40 kg/m² before 20 weeks of gestation.
- Participants engaged in a home-based exercise program for at least 12 weeks, logging activity in a diary.
- Feasibility was assessed via activity diaries and post-intervention questionnaires.
Main Results:
- Twenty-eight women participated in the intervention.
- Only six participants completed the 12-week intervention.
- All participants reported feeling better and intended to continue exercising.
Conclusions:
- Empowering and involving women in self-care with realistic tasks may enhance commitment.
- A 20% compliance rate highlights challenges of pregnancy and obesity; supervision may improve adherence.
- Future research should consider incorporating a supervision plan to increase participation and adherence.
