Full-text language: Greek
Mikrogiannaki E.1, Bonia K. D.1,2, Georga D. D.3, Malliou P.1, Gioftsidou A.1, Beneka A.1
Συγγραφείς: Μικρογιαννάκη Ε., Μπόνια Κ. Δ., Γεωργά Δ. Δήμητρα, Μάλλιου Π., Γιοφτσίδου Α., Μπενέκα Α.
1Democritus University of Thrace, School of Physical Education, Sport Science and Occupational Therapy, Department of Physical Education and Sport Science, Komotini, Rodopi, Greece, 69100
2Institute of Occupational Science and Rehabilitation, Maroussi, Attica, Greece, 15125
3University of Thessaly, Department of Nursing, Larissa, Thessaly, Greece, 41500
Corresponding author: Evangelia Mikrogiannaki
[email protected]
Abstract (English)
Pregnancy is accompanied by significant physiological and psychological changes that may affect maternal health and well-being. Exercise is increasingly recommended as part of prenatal care; however, questions remain regarding its effectiveness and optimal prescription. The aim of this review was to examine the effects of exercise during pregnancy on maternal health outcomes and to identify exercise characteristics associated with favorable clinical outcomes. A total of 37 studies were included, comprising 26 randomized controlled trials and 11 systematic reviews/meta-analyses. The findings demonstrated that appropriately prescribed exercise is safe during pregnancy and is associated with improvements in quality of life, psychological well-being, low back and pelvic pain, pelvic floor function, glycemic control, and gestational weight management. Positive effects were also observed in selected pregnancy and birth outcomes. Yoga and Pilates showed particular benefits for psychological and musculoskeletal health, while combined exercise programs provided broader improvements across multiple health domains. Effective interventions were generally characterized by moderate intensity, two to three weekly sessions, and a duration of at least eight weeks. Overall, the available evidence supports the integration of structured exercise programs into routine prenatal care to promote maternal health and well-being.
Keywords: pregnancy; exercise; physical activity; maternal health; prenatal care; rehabilitation