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Supervised Multicomponent Exercise During Pregnancy Reduces Cesarean Section Rates Without Increasing Miscarriage
Dingfeng Zhang1,2, Miguel Sánchez-Polán3, Cristina Silva-Jose2
1School of Physical Education and Sports Science, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, China.
Birth (Berkeley, Calif.)
|July 30, 2026
Summary
Supervised exercise during pregnancy significantly lowers cesarean section rates. This multicomponent program is safe, showing no increased miscarriage risk, and supports better delivery outcomes in prenatal care.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Sports Medicine
- Public Health
Background:
- Cesarean section rates are rising globally.
- Non-pharmacological interventions for improving pregnancy outcomes are sought.
- Exercise during pregnancy is increasingly recognized for its benefits.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the effectiveness and safety of a supervised multicomponent exercise program during pregnancy.
- To evaluate the impact on cesarean section rates and miscarriage risk.
Main Methods:
- Randomized clinical trial with 256 participants (120 exercise group, 136 control group).
- Supervised, moderate-intensity, hybrid (face-to-face and online) group exercise program, three times weekly for 60 minutes.
- Program conducted from 8-10 weeks until 38-40 weeks of gestation.
Main Results:
- Significantly lower cesarean section rate in the exercise group (12.6%) compared to the control group (28.9%).
- No increased risk of miscarriage associated with exercise participation (p=1.000).
- No significant differences in instrumental vaginal delivery or other maternal/neonatal outcomes.
Conclusions:
- A supervised, moderate-intensity multicomponent exercise program effectively reduces cesarean section rates in pregnancy.
- The program is safe, with no elevated miscarriage risk.
- Supports integration of supervised exercise into routine prenatal care for improved delivery outcomes.
