“If by exercising I can conceive; I would like to exercise”. Exploring knowledge, perception, and practices about exercise among women with infertility: A qualitative study

Abstract

Background

Infertility is a rising global issue and when compared to men, women face greater stigma and consequences of infertility in developing countries. Women are prescribed exercises as a part of lifestyle intervention programs prior to artificial reproductive techniques (ART) to lose weight, to improve their chances of conception. However, adherence to exercise programs has been observed to be poor and the reasons for this remain less explored.

Objective

To explore the perceptions and practices about performing exercises among women with infertility.

Methods

A qualitative explorative study was conducted based on the interpretive framework. Face-to-face semi-structured in-depth interviews were conducted with 20 women diagnosed with primary or secondary infertility. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis.

Results

A total of 20 women, mean age 30.9 ± 4.8 years, body mass index 22.4 ± 1.9 kg/m², participated in the study. Four main themes were constructed: (1) knowledge about the causes of infertility - obesity and lifestyle changes; (2) modifications made in physical activity for conception - performing household chores, not exercising during menstruation, and reducing physical activity during or before Assisted Reproductive Techniques (ART); (3) perceptions towards health and fitness - lack of health problems, being strong and happy; (4) exercise and conception - perceived benefits of exercises, source of knowledge about exercises, preferred type of exercises, willingness to exercise, facilitators and barriers to exercise.

Conclusion

Knowledge about the causes of infertility, individual perception of health and fitness, the preferred mode of exercise, and barriers and facilitators to perform exercise are key aspects to be considered before planning an exercise intervention for women with infertility.