Association Between Physical Activity During Pregnancy and Perinatal Depressive Symptoms in Pregnant Individuals With Overweight and Obesity

Introduction

Current research on the association between physical activity and perinatal depression is inconclusive. This study examined the association between objectively measured physical activity during pregnancy and perinatal depressive symptoms among individuals with overweight and obesity.

Methods

Data came from the Health in Pregnancy and Postpartum study (N = 205). Physical activity was measured using the SenseWear Armband at 16 weeks' or fewer and 32 weeks' gestation and categorized into 1) never meeting 2018 physical activity guidelines, 2) meeting the guidelines at one time point, or 3) meeting the guidelines at both time points. Antenatal depressive symptoms were assessed at 32 weeks’ gestation, and postpartum depressive symptoms were assessed at 6 and 12 months postpartum using the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale. A score of 10 or higher was defined as probable at least minor depression (hereafter, probable depression).

Results

Nearly one-half of the participants (45.4%) met physical activity guidelines both in early and late pregnancy. Pregnant individuals who met physical activity guidelines at one (adjusted odds ratio, 0.07; 95% confidence interval, 0.01–0.76) or both time points (adjusted odds ratio, 0.08; 95% confidence interval, 0.01–0.69) during pregnancy had lower odds of probable depression at 6 months postpartum than individuals who never met physical activity guidelines during pregnancy. No significant associations were found between prenatal physical activity and probable antenatal or postpartum depression at 12 months.

Conclusions

Antenatal physical activity was associated with lower odds of probable depression at 6 months after childbirth. Physicians should use evidence-based strategies to encourage pregnant people, especially those who are at risk for postpartum depression, to meet physical activity guidelines.