Physical activity level and associated factors among pregnant women: a population-based epidemiological study

Abstract

This research aimed to assess the level of physical activity and identify the associated factors in pregnant women assisted in primary health care in the city of Montes Claros, Minas Gerais (Brazil). This was an epidemiological, cross-sectional, analytical study, carried out with 1,279 pregnant women. Socioeconomic, occupational, obstetric, behavioral, social, health, and emotional variables were assessed using a questionnaire. The Physical Activity Questionnaire for Pregnant Women was also applied. Descriptive statistical analysis and multinominal logistic regression with a hierarchical model were performed. The prevalence of physical inactivity in the physical activity and leisure time dimensions was verified. A mild level of physical activity was associated with the variables such as age from 21 to 30 years and up to 20 years old, income above two minimum wages, salaried work, and maternal-fetal attachment at a medium/high level. Income from one to two minimum wages and above two wages, paid work and self-employment, anxiety and stress symptoms, and medium/high maternal-fetal attachment were associated with the moderate/vigorous level. Multifactorial aspects must be considered in health promotion strategies directed to the practice of physical activity by pregnant women.

Key words:
Pregnant women; Exercise; Primary health care; Health surveys