Exercise During Pregnancy: What Do OB/GYNs Believe and Practice? A Descriptive Analysis

Area of Science:

• Obstetrics and Gynecology
• Sports Medicine
• Public Health

Background:

• Regular exercise during pregnancy is crucial for maternal and fetal health.
• Despite recommendations, only 15% of pregnant individuals meet exercise guidelines.
• Physician attitudes and practices regarding exercise in pregnancy may influence patient adherence.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess obstetrician-gynecologists' (OB/GYNs) knowledge, attitudes, and clinical practices concerning exercise during pregnancy.
• To understand how OB/GYN recommendations may impact patient exercise engagement.

Main Methods:

• A survey was mailed to 950 practicing OB/GYNs in the U.S.
• The survey included 11 questions on demographics, exercise physiology knowledge, attitudes, and clinical practice.
• 139 surveys were returned, yielding a 14.6% response rate.

Main Results:

• 94% of surveyed OB/GYNs believe exercise benefits outweigh risks during pregnancy.
• 98% routinely advise patients to exercise, but only 46% discuss specific guidelines (frequency, intensity, type).
• Despite limited formal exercise physiology training (13%), 27% develop personalized exercise prescriptions.

Conclusions:

• Low exercise engagement in pregnant patients is unlikely due to a lack of physician advice or negative OB/GYN attitudes.
• The gap may lie in the specificity of exercise guidance provided by OB/GYNs.
• Further research into optimizing physician communication regarding exercise recommendations is warranted.