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Z Geburtshilfe Neonatol
DOI: 10.1055/a-2231-7074
Original Article

Significance of Physical Exercise in Pregnancy: Comparison of Short and Long Exercise Programs

Esra Uzelpasacı
1   Faculty of Gülhane Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation, University of Health Sciences, Ankara, Turkey
,
Levent Ozcakar
2   Medical School, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
,
Serap Özgül
3   Faculty of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
,
Özgür Özyüncü
2   Medical School, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
,
Mehmet Sinan Beksac
4   Division of Perinatal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hacettepe Universitesi Tip Fakultesi, Ankara, Turkey
,
Türkan Akbayrak
3   Faculty of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
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Abstract

Background Several musculoskeletal changes occur in pregnancy, particularly in the abdominal region. The aim of this study was to search and compare the effects of long (LEP) and short exercise programs (SEP) in terms of the satisfaction of the needs of pregnant women.

Methods This study consisted of 2 groups: LEP (n=16) and SEP (n=16). Muscle thickness measurements determined by ultrasound, the 6 minute walk test, Pregnancy Physical Activity Questionnaire, Visual Analogue Scale, Oswestry Disability Index, and Short Form-36 Quality of Life Questionnaire were the study variables. Evaluations were done at the 16th (baseline), 24th, and 32nd gestational weeks. The LEP consisted of 20 and the SEP consisted of 9 exercises, which were applied for 16 weeks until the 32nd gestational week.

Results Emotional role limitation and pain scores of quality of life, 6 minute walk test, and occupational physical activity were found to be better in the LEP group at the 24th gestational week (p=0.043, p=0.049, p=0.049, p=0.026). At the 32nd gestational week, the 6 minute walk test and occupational physical activity were found to be higher in the LEP group (p=0.006, p=0.017). Additionally, rectus abdominis and bilateral diaphragm muscle thicknesses, “moderate intensity and sports physical activity” and “vitality and emotional well-being” were increased over time with the LEP (p+<+0.05 for all). On the other hand, unilateral diaphragm muscle thickness, sports physical activity level, and vitality were improved with the SEP (p+<+0.05 for all).

Conclusions The SEP and LEP both have beneficial effects in pregnant women. However, the LEP increases physical activity level, functional capacity, and quality of life more than the SEP during the later stages of pregnancy.

Key words

fitness and sports - perinatal - pregnancy - antenatal care

Schlüsselwörter

Fitness und Sport - Geburtshilfe - perinatal


Publication History

Received: 04 September 2023

Accepted after revision: 16 December 2023

Article published online:
29 January 2024

© 2024. Thieme. All rights reserved.

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