DOES AEROBIC EXERCISE DURING PREGNANCY REDUCE THE RISK OF POSTPARTUM DEPRESSION?

This question was posed by researchers who conducted a randomized controlled trial to determine whether regular aerobic exercise during pregnancy would reduce postpartum depression in women with singleton (non-multiple) pregnancies.

398 women between the ages of 20-40 years were evaluated, all of whom had low-risk single pregnancies. Each one was then randomly assigned to either an exercise or non-exercise group.

The program for the exercise group program consisted of structured aerobic exercise 3 days per week until 35 weeks of gestation. The non-exercise group did not receive any structured exercise program or guidance on physical activity.

Self-reported postpartum depressive symptoms were assessed using the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression scale (EPDS). The lower the score, the less depressive moods reported. Women with an EPDS score equal or greater than 9 received closer follow-up and, if necessary, were referred to a psychiatrist for counseling.

What was revealed?

Results showed that:

  • In the exercise group the mean EPDS score was lower than that of the non-exercise group
  • Women in the exercise group had a higher gestational age at delivery and lower rates of NICU (Neonatal ICU) admissions
  • Other maternal and perinatal outcomes were not significantly different between the two groups

The authors reported: “The mechanisms by which antenatal exercise may reduce the risk of post-partum depression are, therefore, likely multifactorial. Exercise promotes neuroplasticity and increases levels of brain derived neurotropic factor.”

 

The study was led by Gabriele Saccone, Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Sciences and Dentistry, School of Medicine, University of Naples and published in An International Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology, September 21, 2025.

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SAFETY BELTS DURING PREGNANCY

Safety and good health in pregnancy is always a high priority. Lifestyle changes during this time often include modification in diet, exercise and adequate rest for the soon to be mom. We also take for granted the need to eliminate cigarette smoking and avoidance of alcohol and most other drugs.

Yet, other areas of concern still exist. For example, some women feel that is might be injurious to the developing fetus to wear a seatbelt while driving. This notion was looked into by the National Highway Safety Transportation Administration (NHTSA) and clear recommendations to pregnant women were made. Their findings stated “…there is no evidence that safety belts increase the chance of injury to the baby, uterus, or placenta, no matter how severe the collision.”

It turns out that the mother’s body provides the best cushioning (from the bones, muscles and organs) for her developing baby. Although true that the pressures of a seatbelt can briefly squeeze the baby in the amniotic sac, there is greater cause for concern. “The main risk to the baby is injury or death of its mother. Injuries and death to the baby are closely related to the extent of the injury sustained by its mother.”

HOW TO WEAR SAFETY BELTS DURING PREGNANCY

Lap belts, as well as the lap portion of a lap-shoulder harness combination, should be placed low, across the hips and over the upper thighs. They must lie snugly over the pelvis, one of the stronger bones of our body. Never place the belt over the abdomen.  Adjust the shoulder belt for a snug fit. If it cuts across your neck, reposition your car seat for a better fit.

It turns out that the mother’s body provides the best cushioning (from the bones, muscles and organs) for her developing baby. Although true that the pressures of a seatbelt can briefly squeeze the baby in the amniotic sac, there is greater cause for concern. “The main risk to the baby is injury or death of its mother. Injuries and death to the baby are closely related to the extent of the injury sustained by its mother.”

For More Information visit the NHTSA web site
www.nhtsa.gov