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Physical activity during pregnancy — the state of Polish women’s knowledge
, 2, 3, 3, 2, 2
Affiliations- Students’ Scientific Group affiliated to 2nd Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Medical University of Warsaw, Poland
- 2nd Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Medical University of Warsaw, Poland
- Students’ Scientific Group affiliated to 2nd Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Medical University of Warsaw, Poland
open access
Abstract
Objectives: Regular and moderate physical activity during uncomplicated pregnancy has been considered beneficial for both the expectant mother and her unborn child. It reduces the risk of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) and preeclampsia.
The aim of the study was to assess women’s knowledge concerning specific aspects of physical activity during uncomplicated pregnancy.
Material and methods: A cross-sectional survey study on a sample of Polish women in a tertiary referral centre was performed. A questionnaire that was validated in the Polish language was based on the Committee Opinion of American College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, which was published in December 2015. Sociodemographic parameters in relation to specific aspects of physical activity during pregnancy were analysed.
Results: A total of 259 (92.5%) women were aware of the beneficial impact of physical activity on the course of pregnancy. Higher education was associated with greater awareness (p = 0.001). Regarding the optimal frequency and recommended duration of exercise, the overall rates of correct answers were only 106 (38.1%) and 167 (59.6%), respectively. The most common sources of information on physical activity during pregnancy were the Internet (81, 50.0%) and books (62, 38.3%). Doctors and midwives instructed the respondents only in 36 (22.4%) and 31 (18.9%) cases, respectively.
Conclusions: Women’s knowledge about physical activity during pregnancy seems satisfactory. However, awareness concerning the optimal duration and frequency of exercise, as well as recommended voluntary activities during pregnancy, should be improved. Medical professionals may also reinforce their role as a provider of reliable information, resulting in the prevention of many pregnancy complications.
Abstract
Objectives: Regular and moderate physical activity during uncomplicated pregnancy has been considered beneficial for both the expectant mother and her unborn child. It reduces the risk of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) and preeclampsia.
The aim of the study was to assess women’s knowledge concerning specific aspects of physical activity during uncomplicated pregnancy.
Material and methods: A cross-sectional survey study on a sample of Polish women in a tertiary referral centre was performed. A questionnaire that was validated in the Polish language was based on the Committee Opinion of American College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, which was published in December 2015. Sociodemographic parameters in relation to specific aspects of physical activity during pregnancy were analysed.
Results: A total of 259 (92.5%) women were aware of the beneficial impact of physical activity on the course of pregnancy. Higher education was associated with greater awareness (p = 0.001). Regarding the optimal frequency and recommended duration of exercise, the overall rates of correct answers were only 106 (38.1%) and 167 (59.6%), respectively. The most common sources of information on physical activity during pregnancy were the Internet (81, 50.0%) and books (62, 38.3%). Doctors and midwives instructed the respondents only in 36 (22.4%) and 31 (18.9%) cases, respectively.
Conclusions: Women’s knowledge about physical activity during pregnancy seems satisfactory. However, awareness concerning the optimal duration and frequency of exercise, as well as recommended voluntary activities during pregnancy, should be improved. Medical professionals may also reinforce their role as a provider of reliable information, resulting in the prevention of many pregnancy complications.
Keywords
pregnancy; exercise; gestational diabetes; pre-eclampsia
About this articleTitle
Physical activity during pregnancy — the state of Polish women’s knowledge
Journal
Issue
Article type
Research paper
Pages
804-811
Published online
2021-04-16
Page views
7068
Article views/downloads
1114
DOI
Pubmed
Bibliographic record
Ginekol Pol 2021;92(11):804-811.
Keywords
pregnancy
exercise
gestational diabetes
pre-eclampsia
Authors
Alicja Szatko
Joanna Kacperczyk-Bartnik
Pawel Bartnik
Ewelina Mabiala
Martyna Goryszewska
Agnieszka Dobrowolska-Redo
Ewa Romejko-Wolniewicz
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