Introduction/Objective The frequency of a sedentary lifestyle during pregnancy increases. This contributes to gestational weight gain and has a negative impact on health.
This study researched the impact of prenatal exercise on gestational weight gain, blood pressure, and
microcirculation in pregnant women who exercised and those who did not exercise.
Methods The study included 70 pregnant women with a normal pregnancy, who attended a psychophysical preparation program for childbirth for eight weeks. The control group (n = 35) attended theoretical classes on childbirth, and the experimental group (n = 35) attended prenatal exercises as well.
Gestational weight gain, blood pressure, and nailfold capillary density were determined and compared
between the two groups.
Results Gestational weight gain of 19.94 kg in non-exercising pregnant women was significantly greater
than the gestational weight gain of 11.65 kg in pregnant women who exercised. Pregnant women who
did not exercise had an increase in systolic (by 15.56 mmHg) and diastolic pressure (by 16.08 mmHg),
which is significantly higher compared to pregnant women who exercised. In this group, systolic pressure
increased by 2.5 mmHg, while the diastolic one did not change. A significant difference in the nailfold
capillary density at the end of the prenatal program has not been determined.
Conclusion Prenatal exercise of moderate-intensity has a positive effect on gestational weight gain and
the level of blood pressure in pregnant women. The nailfold capillary density has not differed significantly
after the prenatal program in pregnant women who have exercised and in those who have not.
