Effects of prenatal exercise interventions on physical activity, sedentary behaviour, maternal health, and pregnancy outcomes: A systematic review and meta-analysis.
Int J Nurs StudMay 15, 2026 (epub)
Clinical ResearchObstetrics & Gynecology
Zhixuan Xiang, Youran Liu, Ruohan Wang et al.
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In 30 seconds
This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated the effects of prenatal exercise interventions on physical activity and pregnancy outcomes in pregnant women. The analysis included 88 randomised controlled trials and found that exercise interventions significantly increased total physical activity (SMD: 0.62) and reduced the incidence of gestational diabetes (RR: 0.75) and hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (RR: 0.67).
Key findings
- Exercise interventions significantly increased total physical activity (SMD: 0.62).
- Gestational diabetes incidence was reduced (RR: 0.75).
- Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy were reduced (RR: 0.67).
- Total gestational weight gain was decreased (SMD: -0.28).
Why it matters
Promoting physical activity through prenatal exercise interventions may enhance maternal health and improve pregnancy outcomes, potentially reducing complications such as gestational diabetes and hypertensive disorders.