Description: A pioneer study conducted by the Polytechnic University of Madrid (UPM) and led by Dr. Rubén Barakat highlights the remarkable benefits of maintaining an active lifestyle during pregnancy for both the mother and her baby.

Are you aware that engaging in physical activity while pregnant can be one of the most significant gifts for both you and your unborn child? The UPM team, guided by Dr. Rubén Barakat, has unveiled the profound impact of exercise on pregnancy.

Summarized in six scientific reviews, this research offers invaluable insights for expectant mothers and healthcare professionals. Key discoveries include:

Significant Reduction in Perineal Tear Risk:

The research identifies a 50% decrease in the likelihood of perineal tears, emphasizing the preventive power of exercise against common childbirth complications.

Decreased Cesarean Section Risk:

Engaging in physical activities is associated with a 13% reduction in the necessity for cesarean sections, countering the worldwide surge in these procedures.

Reduced Macrosomia Risk:

There is a 21% lower risk of delivering babies with macrosomia, contributing to healthier birth weights.

Importance of Exercise During Pregnancy:

The rising prevalence of sedentary lifestyles has escalated pregnancy complications. This study highlights the critical role of exercise in enhancing not just physical, but also emotional and psychological well-being during pregnancy.

Impact of Physical Activity:

Active women during pregnancy report fewer instances of urinary incontinence, a shorter initial labour phase, and improved intrauterine metabolic equilibrium, crucial for averting future metabolic issues in offspring.

Despite these benefits, less than 20% of expectant mothers meet the WHO’s recommendations for physical activity. It’s crucial to shift this trend and advocate for a physically active pregnancy.

Conclusion

Exercising during pregnancy is safe and vital. The findings from the UPM study underscore the necessity of integrating physical activity into prenatal care, promoting preventive and personalized health strategies. It’s time to prioritize the well-being of women, mothers, their infants, and future generations by encouraging an active lifestyle during pregnancy.

Autors:

Dingfeng Zhang et al. “Influence of pelvic floor muscle training alone or as part of a general physical activity program during pregnancy on urinary incontinence, episiotomy and third- or fourth-degree perineal tear: Systematic review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Clinical Trials”. Acta Obstet Gynecol Scand 2023.

Link to publication: https://doi.org/10.1111/aogs.14744

Sánchez-Polán M et al. “Physical Activity and Self-Perception of Mental and Physical Quality of Life during Pregnancy: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.” J Clin Med 2023.

Link to publication: https://doi.org/10.3390%2Fjcm12175549

Zhang D et al. “Influence of Physical Activity during Pregnancy on Birth Weight: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.” J Clin Med 2023.

Link to publication: https://doi.org/10.3390%2Fjcm12165421

Barakat R et al. “The Influence of Physical Activity during Pregnancy on Miscarriage-Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.” J Clin Med 2023.

Link to publication: https://doi.org/10.3390%2Fjcm12165393

Zhang D et al. “Influence of Physical Activity during Pregnancy on Type and Duration of Delivery, and Epidural Use: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.” J Clin Med 2023.

Link to publication: https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm12155139

Barakat R et al. “Is Exercise during Pregnancy a Risk for Gestational Age and Preterm Delivery? Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis”. J Clin Med 2023.

Link to publication: https://doi.org/10.3390%2Fjcm12154915