Effects of Physical Activity During Pregnancy on Maternal and Neonatal Health Outcomes: A Cross-Sectional Study with Postpartum Women

• Grant number: 25/14586-4
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation
• Start date: November 01, 2025
• End date: October 31, 2026
• Field of knowledge: Health Sciences - Medicine - Maternal and Child Health
• Principal Investigator: Alessandra Madia Mantovani Fabri
• Grantee: Mariana Oliveira dos Santos
• Host Institution: Centro Universitário Antônio Eufrásio de Toledo de Presidente Prudente. Presidente Prudente , SP, Brazil

Abstract

Introduction: The female body undergoes several changes during pregnancy, which often result in dysfunctions at different levels in the body systems. On the other hand, attention to women's health during pregnancy may involve the practice of physical exercise, which has repercussions on maternal and child health. Objectives: To analyze the influence of physical activity during pregnancy on physical, mental and neonatal health outcomes of postpartum women and their children. Methods: This is a cross-sectional study, in which data collection will be carried out with women up to six months postpartum, over the age of 18, able to read and understand Portuguese, and who have voluntarily signed the Free and Informed Consent Form. Assessments will be carried out in person, using the following questionnaires: International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) for level of physical activity; Pelvic Floor Bother Questionnaire (PFBQ) for symptoms related to pelvic floor dysfunctions; and the Self Report Questionnaire (SRQ-20) for mental health, in addition to a semi-structured interview containing obstetric and neonatal data. Expected results: The preliminary findings of the project, based on the scientific literature, suggest that physical activity during pregnancy promotes positive impacts on maternal and child health. Continuing studies may reinforce the need to encourage specific exercise programs for pregnant women, as a preventive and health-promoting measure, as long as it is monitored by a qualified professional.