Evaluation of women's exercise and physical activity beliefs and behaviors during their pregnancy and postpartum based on the planned behavior theory

Lack of physical activity is a major risk factor for obesity and cardiovascular disease. Pregnancy and postpartum can limit physical activity. The purpose of this study was to evaluate beliefs and physical performance during pregnancy and postpartum. During a cross sectional study, 200 women within 1 year of a child’s birth were recruited. To determine the amount of physical activity and exercise beliefs (behavioral, normative and control), Global Physical Activity Questionnaire designed by the World Health Organization and Exercise Beliefs Questionnaire based on the theory of planned behavior guidelines were used, respectively. Data were statistically analyzed by SPSS 13 software based on descriptive statistics and non-parametric Wilcoxon test. Meanwhile, p < 0.05 was considered significant. The most frequent behavioral beliefs during pregnancy and after pregnancy were as follows: exercise improves mood and morale, reduces stress, controls body weight and make fitness. The most common normative belief (affected people) were: spouse, mother and health of employees. Fatigue, lethargy and lack of energy, morning sickness and time limitations were the most common control beliefs (physical barriers) in pregnancy and postpartum. Physical activity during pregnancy and postpartum in order were the average rate (19.5%) and (3%) and low rate (87.5%) and (97%). The total amount of physical activity during pregnancy was more than postpartum (p <0.05). In comparison with the pregnancy, physical activity decreases after delivery. Pregnancy and postpartum promotes a sedentary lifestyle.