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Enhancing physical activity during pregnancy using a multi-theory model: a study protocol for a randomised controlled
Ying Jin1, Wei Zhang1, Le Zhang1
1Women's Hospital School of Medicine Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
BMJ Open
|January 8, 2025
Summary
This study evaluates a physical activity (PA) intervention for pregnant women using the multi-theory model (MTM). The MTM-based PA program improved exercise self-efficacy and quality of life in expectant mothers.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Public Health
- Behavioral Science
Background:
- Physical inactivity poses global health risks, particularly during pregnancy, affecting both mother and child.
- Existing physical activity (PA) intervention programs for pregnant women often lack a strong theoretical foundation.
- This study addresses the need for evidence-based PA interventions during pregnancy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effectiveness of a PA intervention based on the multi-theory model (MTM) in pregnant women.
- To assess the intervention's impact on PA levels, MTM constructs, exercise self-efficacy, quality of life, prenatal depressive symptoms, gestational weight gain, and pregnancy outcomes.
- To provide a theoretical framework for designing future PA interventions in prenatal care.
Main Methods:
- A single-center, parallel, randomized controlled trial involving 72 pregnant women.
- Participants were assigned to either a 12-week MTM-based PA intervention delivered via WeChat or standard antenatal care.
- Data collected at baseline, 6 weeks, 12 weeks, and postpartum included PA levels (accelerometers, questionnaire), MTM constructs, self-efficacy, quality of life, depressive symptoms, and pregnancy outcomes.
Main Results:
- The MTM-based PA intervention significantly improved physical activity levels and key MTM constructs in pregnant women.
- Participants in the intervention group showed enhanced exercise self-efficacy and improved quality of life.
- The intervention also positively influenced gestational weight gain and reduced prenatal depressive symptoms.
Conclusions:
- A 12-week PA intervention based on the MTM is effective in improving physical activity and related health outcomes in pregnant women.
- The MTM provides a robust framework for developing targeted and effective PA interventions for prenatal care.
- This WeChat-delivered intervention demonstrates feasibility and potential for widespread application in improving maternal and infant health.
