Effects of Exercise-Based Interventions on Neonatal Outcomes

Abstract

Objective.

The aim of this study was to conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled clinical trials (RCTs) assessing the influence of physical exercise interventions during pregnancy on some neonatal outcomes.

Data Source.

Key words were used to conduct a computerized search in six databases: Cochrane Library Plus, Science Direct, EMBASE, PubMed, Web of Science, and ClinicalTrials.gov.

Study Inclusion and Exclusion Criteria.

RCTs that included an exercise program for healthy pregnant women who were sedentary or had low levels of physical activity were selected.

Data Extraction.

Two independent reviewers extracted data and assessed the quality of the studies included. Of 4296 articles retrieved, 14 RCTs (3044 pregnant women) met the inclusion criteria.

Data Synthesis.

Pooled effect sizes (ESs) were calculated using a fixed model.

Results.

Overall, physical exercise programs during pregnancy produced a small reduction in neonatal birth weight (ES = −.10; p = .04). The Apgar score at 1 minute was also weakly increased with combined exercise (aerobic, strength, and flexibility) (ES = .09; p = .048) and no differences between groups were observed in gestational age at delivery and Apgar score at 5 minutes.

Conclusion.

Structured physical exercise programs during pregnancy appear to be safe for the neonate, mainly favoring a lower birth weight within normal range. However, more studies are needed to establish recommendations.