The effect of an exercise program during pregnancy on the Edinburgh depression score in pregnant women

Approximately 13-18.4% of pregnant women experience depression during pregnancy. There is currently not much information about the relationship between exercise during pregnancy and depressive symptoms in healthy pregnant women The present study assessed the effects of a prenatal exercise program on Edinburgh depression questionnaire score.

A total of 100 healthy pregnant women (age ≥ 18 years; gestational age 21-24 weeks) were divided into two groups in the experimental group (n=50) and in the control group (n=50). The experimental group was offered a 12-week exercise program (standard recommendations and included both aerobic and strength training) between 20 and 36 weeks of pregnancy, under supervision, every two weeks. They were encouraged to do exercise program at home three days a week. The control group received routine antenatal care. The primary outcome was symptoms of depression assessed by the Edinburgh Depression Inventory at the first interview and immediately after the 12-week intervention.

The comparison of mean and standard deviation of the Edinburgh Depression Inventory in the two groups before intervention showed that there was no statistically significant difference between the two groups (p<0.10). After the 12-week intervention, as compared to the control group, the exercise group showed significantly reduced depressive symptoms on the Edinburgh Depression Inventory (p<0.01). Comparison of subtraction of mean and standard deviation of Edinburgh depression scores before and after intervention indicates a statistically significant difference between the two groups (p<0.001).

Exercise during pregnancy reduces depressive symptoms. It is recommended to promote exercise and physical activity in pregnancy as a useful measure for the physical and mental health of pregnant women.