Physical Activity and Health-Related Quality of Life During Pregnancy: A Secondary Analysis of a Cluster-Randomised Trial

The aim of the study was to evaluate the role of physical activity before and during pregnancy on health-related quality of life (HRQoL). Data from the cluster-randomised gestational diabetes mellitus primary prevention trial conducted in maternity clinics were utilised in a secondary analysis. The cases considered were pregnant women who reported engaging in at least 150 min of moderate-intensity leisure-time physical activity per week (active women) (N = 80), and the controls were women below these recommendations (less active) (N = 258). All participants had at least one risk factor for gestational diabetes mellitus. Their HRQoL was evaluated via the validated generic instrument 15D, with HRQoL at the end of pregnancy examined in relation to changes in physical activity during pregnancy. Logistic regression models addressed age, parity, education, and pre-pregnancy body mass index. At the end of pregnancy, the expected HRQoL was higher (tobit regression coefficient 0.022, 95 % CI 0.003–0.042) among active women than less active women. Active women also had greater mobility (OR 1.98, 95 % CI 1.04–3.78), ability to handle their usual activities (OR 2.22, 95 % CI 1.29–3.81), and vitality (OR 2.08, 95 % CI 1.22–3.54) than did less active women. Active women reported higher-quality sleep (OR 2.11, 95 % CI 1.03–4.30) throughout pregnancy as compared to less active women. Meeting of the physical activity guidelines before pregnancy was associated with better overall HRQoL and components thereof related to physical activity.