The Effect of Exercise During Pregnancy in Prevention of Gestational Hypertention and Preeclampsia

Backgrounds:Gestational hypertension and preeclampsia are still the most important complications of pregnancy, which are associated with significant maternal and neonatal mortality and morbidity. Despite many efforts to find prevention methods, it is still not known yet. Some studies show that physical activity during pregnancy prevent or modify the severity of hypertension and preeclampsia. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effect of pregnancy exercises in preventing these complications.Material and method : The present study is a randomized single-blind clinical trial in which 400 primiparous mothers were randomly divided into two groups of 200 participants in the experimental and control groups from 18-22wk in gestation. The intervention group was assigned to exercise classes and an opportunity for delivery in the health centers of Alborz province. With the aid of the instructor twice a week, each time for 45 minutes, there were 8 sessions, which were first taught in oral form and then in practice including respiratory pattern, stretching exercises and relaxation. The control group of pregnant mothers were eligible to study in health centers of Alborz Province for routine pregnancy care. In both groups, after receiving the written consent, the demographic questionnaire was completed by the researcher. Before the delivery, both groups were checked in each session. The weight and blood pressure were measured in each visit. Then, both groups were compared for the incidence of gestational hypertension and preeclampsia. The data were analyzed statistically by Spss 17 using T-test and Kolmogorov-Smirnov at a significant level of 5%.Result: In the control group after 8 sessions 2 mothers were diagnosed with gestational hypertension while in the experimental group no one was diagnosed. There was no significant difference between the two groups (P =0/1). In control group, 10 patients had preeclampsia at the end of study but in experimental group only one preeclampsia was diagnosed. There was a significant difference between two groups (P = 0.02).Conclusion: Exercises during pregnancy as a simple, practical and low cost method can be considered for the prevention of preeclampsia and its maternal and fetal complications. Of course, the effects of this method on gestational hypertention requires further extensive studies in future.