Feasibility of a Supervised Postpartum Exercise Program and Effects on Maternal Health and Fitness Parameters—Pilot Study

Abstract

The postpartum period is marked by profound changes in women at a physical, psychological, and physiological level. Many of these changes persist after four to six weeks postpartum, and most women do not resume their levels of physical activity, which increases the risk of remaining inactive for many years. It is crucial to implement effective programs that promote exercise during the postpartum period. The objective of this study was to test the feasibility and analyze the effects of a structured and supervised postpartum exercise program on the maternal health and fitness parameters. To analyze the potential effects of the intervention, the level of physical activity, quality of life, pelvic girdle and low back pain, fatigue, depression, and the level of functional and physical fitness were assessed at baseline, after 8 weeks, and after 16 weeks of intervention. Feedback on the exercise program was collected after the final assessment. The results showed that a structured and supervised postpartum exercise program was feasible and safe, and produced positive effects on selected maternal health and fitness parameters. These results will encourage a study protocol with a larger sample in order to prove its effectiveness, improve the guidelines for postpartum exercise, and incorporate this program into a routine health care setting.

Development and Validation of the Physical Exercise Program “Active Mums” for Postpartum Recovery. Qualitative study with application of the CReDECI-2 Guidelines

“…The pilot intervention aimed to determine the feasibility, acceptability, and practicality of the postpartum exercise program. The pilot intervention is described elsewhere [54].…”

“…The CReDECI2 [12] has the potential to help professionals in the development and planning of complex interventions, such as an exercise program, lling these gaps. A pilot study was developed to evaluate the feasibility of the postpartum exercise program and its potential impact on maternal health and tness parameters [54].…”