Physical Activity and the Occurrence of Postnatal Depression-A Systematic Review

Risk and protective factors for postpartum depression among Polish women - a prospective study

This prospective study conducted at a single center in 2022 aims to identify risk and protective factors for postpartum depression (PPD) in Polish women and to assess the impact of pregnancy, delivery, the postpartum period, and psychosocial factors on PPD. After delivery and 4 weeks later, 311 women filled out two questionnaires of our design related to risk factors for PPD. Immune Power Personality Questionnaire, Walsh Family Resilience Questionnaire, and Edinburg Postnatal Depression Scale were also applied. The predictors of PPD identified at two time points included: use of antidepressants, previous depressive episodes, family history of depression, risk of preterm delivery, anxiety about child's health, and breastfeeding and sleep problems. Risk factors for PPD found only after delivery were: suicidal ideation before pregnancy, stressful life events, premature rupture of the membranes, and cesarean section. Inhalation analgesia during labor reduced the PPD frequency. At 4 weeks' postpartum, regular physical activity was also predictive of PPD, while breastfeeding, financial satisfaction, and sufficient sleep duration were protective factors. PPD after delivery was negatively correlated with capacity to confide, hardiness, assertiveness, self-complexity, and communication. PPD at 4 weeks postpartum decreased belief systems, organization patterns, and communication. Two proposed self-designed questionnaires can be useful for effectively screening PPD in the Polish population.

Exploring the Feasibility, Acceptability, and Potential Benefits of the Mom Movement Intervention (MOMmi)

OBJECTIVE

To explore the feasibility, acceptability, and potential benefits associated with a mind-body intervention and varied delivery styles among women during the postpartum period.

DESIGN

Mixed-methods feasibility study.

SETTING

Fraser Valley, British Columbia, Canada.

PARTICIPANTS

Forty-three women (93% White), with an average age of 32.1 (SD = 2.9) years, who had given birth within the last 6 months.

METHODS

Participants were randomized to three physical activity groups. Validated questionnaires were administered before and after the 12-week intervention. Attendance and feasibility metrics and qualitative semistructured interviews were conducted to assess the intervention.

RESULTS

The intervention and trial were partially feasible, and retention to the intervention was high; however, adherence as assessed by attendance was lower than expected. There was high acceptability among those in the group-based, in-person intervention. There was moderate acceptability among those in the individual, home-based asynchronous program.

CONCLUSION

Findings highlight the necessity of better understanding what is desired by this population or simply providing more options to participants so that we can tailor physical activity to their needs and provide the necessary support.

Physical Activity during Pregnancy and Risk of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus: A Meta-Review

BACKGROUND

Nowadays, pregnant women require more individualized attention in their assistance process during pregnancy. One of the aspects that requires the most focus is the suitability of carrying out physical activity. The objective of this meta-review is to find out the effects of physical activity during pregnancy on the incidence of GDM compared to women who do not perform physical activity.

METHODS

A search was conducted in Cochrane, CSIC, Ebscohost, Proquest, Pubmed, Scielo, and Scopus. The search focused on systematic reviews and meta-analyses published in the last five years. The AMSTAR-2 scale was used as a quality assessment tool for the final sample.

RESULTS

A total of 18 systematic reviews and meta-analyses were included. Sixteen of them found out that physical activity during pregnancy has preventive effects for GDM compared with women who lacked physical activity. Among the studies, we found a reduction in the risk of GDM of between 24% and 38% and odds ratios ranging between 0.39 and 0.83 calculated for a 95% CI. Only two studies did not find statistically significant effects. Other variables such as type and duration of physical activity, overweight and obesity, gestational age, etc., were also considered.

CONCLUSIONS

Physical activity prevents the incidence of GDM. The main characteristics that enhance this preventive effect are starting at the initial stages of pregnancy and maintaining during the whole pregnancy as well as combining strength and aerobic exercise at a low to moderate intensity.

UK midwives delivering physical activity advice; what are the challenges and possible solutions?

Background

Despite physical activity (PA) providing specific health benefits during pregnancy and the postpartum period, many women report decreased PA during this time. Provision of PA advice has been found to be lacking amongst midwives due to a range of barriers. This study aimed to evaluate United Kingdom's midwives' current role and knowledge regarding the provision of PA advice to pregnant and postpartum women and identify the barriers and potential solutions.

Methods

Ten UK midwives (mean work experience ± SD: 15.5 years ± 10.2) participated in semi-structured interviews between May and July 2023. Data were analysed using a deductive thematic approach following Braun and Clarke's six steps. Demographic data were collected by Microsoft Forms then summarised using Microsoft Excel.

Results

Six themes with 25 subthemes were identified as barriers and solutions in delivering PA advice. The role of midwives in providing PA advice during pregnancy; the role of midwives in providing PA advice postpartum; intrinsic barriers that limit PA advice provision (confidence, safety concerns, knowledge, and midwife's personal body habitus); extrinsic barriers that limit PA advice provision (lack of time, education, PA not a priority in care); solutions to allow midwives to promote PA (including formal PA education, and dissemination of resources); and optimising delivery of PA advice (personalized approach, interprofessional collaboration, and linking to mental health benefits).

Discussion

Midwives consider themselves ideally placed to provide PA advice to pregnant women, with many aware of the benefits PA provides. Despite this, there is a lack of PA advice provision and knowledge of PA guidelines. Postpartum PA advice appeared to be considered outside the remit of midwives, due to limited contact. Further research is needed to determine the current level of PA advice provision for pregnant and postpartum women and explore the role of other healthcare professionals involved in maternity care.

Parous women perform less moderate to vigorous physical activity than their nulliparous peers: a population-based study in Denmark

OBJECTIVES

The World Health Organization (WHO) highlights parous women as a key population for monitoring trends of physical activity (PA). We aimed to estimate the proportion of Danish women non-adhering to WHO PA guidelines in parous women compared with nulliparous women and to describe leisure-time PA intensity in each of these groups.

STUDY DESIGN

Cross-sectional study.

METHODS

This population-based study builds on a sample of 27,668 women aged 16-40 years from the Danish National Health Survey 2021. These data were linked with childbirth data from the Danish National Birth Registry. The primary outcome was self-reported weekly hours of moderate to vigorous leisure-time PA (MVPA) dichotomized into: (i) adhering to WHO guidelines for MVPA or (ii) not adhering to WHO guidelines for MVPA. Binomial regression analysis was used to calculate prevalence proportions (PP) and prevalence proportion ratios (PPR).

RESULTS

Of the 27,668 women, a total of 20,022 were included; 9338 (46.6%) parous women and 10,684 (53.4%) nulliparous women. The PP of women non-adhering to WHO PA guidelines was 63.8% (95% CI 62.9-64.8) for parous and 51.3% (95% CI 50.4-52.3) for nulliparous women, corresponding to a PPR of 1.24 (95% CI 1.21; 1.27).

CONCLUSIONS

The proportion of parous women who did not adhere to WHO PA guidelines for MVPA was 24% higher than that of nulliparous women. This highlights parous women as a subgroup of the adult population at increased risk of non-adherence to WHO PA guidelines. These findings call for future research to inform new strategies aiming to promote PA in parous women.

The influencing factors of changes in physical activity levels of pregnant women during pregnancy: From the perspective of continuous care

A comprehensive understanding of physical activity levels (PAL) among Chinese pregnant women and an exploration, from a continuous care perspective, of various factors influencing these activity levels. Investigating the correlations between adverse habits, psychological factors, and PAL in prenatal health management. This study aims to provide substantial guidance for prenatal health management and personalized care, offering recommendations to healthcare professionals and policymakers to enhance the overall health and well-being of pregnant women. This study enrolled 1256 pregnant women as research subjects. Baseline information was collected through a personal information collection form. Subsequently, continuous care was provided during the early, middle, and late stages of pregnancy, documenting the respective influencing factors. Simultaneously, the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) was utilized to assess the PAL of pregnant women across different trimesters. Finally, using the SPSS software version 25.0, a combined approach of generalized linear mixed effects (GLME) models and multivariate logistic regression was used to statistically analyze the collected data, comprehensively exploring the influencing factors of PAL during pregnancy. The proportion of research subjects engaged in low-level physical activity decreased from 60.80% to 40.34% across various stages of pregnancy, while the proportion engaged in moderate-level physical activity ranged from 25.32% to 40.75%. Meanwhile, the proportion engaged in high-level physical activity accounted for 13.88% to 18.91%.There was P = .021 and β = -0.276 for smoking before pregnancy. The P-value of pregnant women who smoke in the second trimester was.035, the Odds Ratio (OR) value was 0.638, and the 95% confidence interval (CI) was (0.406, 0.972). The difference was statistically significant (all P < .05). In China, the physical activity level of pregnant women is generally low, which is related to factors such as smoking, alcohol consumption, sleep disorders, and depression during pregnancy. Medical personnel should improve the living habits of pregnant women and enhance their PAL through measures such as health education and psychological counseling.

[Medical recommendations from primary care on physical exercise in the postpartum]

There is evidence that demonstrates the benefits of practicing physical activity/exercise for the mother after childbirth. However, this postpartum period (PP) is often a missed opportunity in a lifetime for women to start or resume physical exercise and get the great benefits that it can bring them. The objective of this article was to analyze the benefits of physical exercise during PP; the prescription of physical exercise; recommendations on when to resume your practice; barriers and facilitators; physical exercise during breastfeeding; as well as its role in the most frequent illnesses and discomforts in this period, always keeping in mind that the work of the primary care doctor is essential to motivate and encourage women to perform physical exercise in the PP.

Clinical and exercise professional opinion of return-to-running readiness after childbirth: an international Delphi study and consensus statement

Female athletes have identified a lack of guidance as a barrier to successfully returning to running postpartum, and existing guidelines are vague. Our aim was to define the current practice of determining postpartum run-readiness through a consensus survey of international clinicians and exercise professionals in postpartum exercise to assist clinicians and inform sport policy changes.A three-round Delphi approach was used to gain international consensus from clinicians and exercise professionals on run-readiness postpartum. Professionals who work with postpartum runners participated in an online survey to answer open-ended questions about the following postpartum return-to-running topics: definitions (runner and postpartum), key biopsychosocial milestones that runners need to meet, recommended screening, timeline to initiate running, support items, education topics and factors that contribute to advising against running. Consensus was defined as ≥75% participant agreement.One hundred and eighteen professionals participated in round I, 107 participated in round II (response rate 90.6%) and 95 participated in round III (response rate 80.5%). Responses indicated that, following a minimum 3-week period of rest and recovery, an individualised timeline and gradual return to running progression can be considered. Screening for medical and psychological concerns, current physical capacity, and prior training history is recommended prior to a return to running.This study proposes recommendations for the initial guidance on return-to-running postpartum, framed in the context of current research and consensus from professionals. Future research is needed to strengthen and validate specific recommendations and develop guidelines for best practice when returning-to-running after childbirth.

Mother-infant postnatal experience and its association with maternal emotion and coping during the COVID-19 pandemic

INTRODUCTION

The COVID-19 pandemic resulted in a partial lockdown in Malaysia known as Movement-Controlled-Order (MCO), which has affected primary care management and social life norms. Thus, psychological health is a concern for mothers, particularly during the postpartum period. This study aimed to determine factors associated with maternal emotional experiences and coping during the pandemic.

METHODOLOGY

Mothers of infants aged < 18 months (n = 1449) in Malaysia completed an online survey during MCO (July 2020 to February 2021). The survey comprised questions on sociodemographics, pandemic livelihood impact, maternal experiences, and emotions.

RESULTS

More than one-third of mothers expressed feeling worried (54.7%), annoyed (48.1%), and tired (42.2%) to some or a high extent. Mothers who were younger (p = .001), more educated (p = .001), faced difficulty paying rent (p = .002), and whose husbands were unemployed (p < .001) expressed higher negative emotions. In contrast, mothers who received enough support for health (p = .001) and breastfeeding (p = .008), had infants sleep less (p = .042) and had more time to focus on health (p < .001) expressed better emotions. Higher coping was expressed among mothers with a higher household income (p = .004), had more time to focus on their health (p = .010), received additional breastfeeding support (p = 0.039), and practised traditional postpartum care (p < .001). In contrast, difficulty paying for essentials (p = .023) was associated with negative coping.

CONCLUSION

Maternal emotional experiences were significantly associated with sociodemographic characteristics, livelihood impact, postnatal experiences, and infant behaviours. Postpartum mental health screening is recommended to prevent severe distress, especially in first-time mothers. Coping interventions for mothers at risk may include comprehensive support and maternity care.

Perioperative Exercise Testing in Pregnant and Non-Pregnant Women of Reproductive Age: A Systematic Review

BACKGROUND

Women have classically been excluded from the development of normal data and reference ranges, with pregnant women experiencing further neglect. The incidence of Caesarean section in pregnant women, and of general operative management in young women (both pregnant and non-pregnant), necessitates the formal development of healthy baseline data in these cohorts to optimise their perioperative management. This systematic review assesses the representation of young women in existing reference ranges for several functional exercise tests in common use to facilitate functional assessment in this cohort.

METHODS

Existing reference range data for the exercise tests the Six Minute Walk Test (6MWT), the Incremental Shuttle Walk Test (ISWT) and Cardiopulmonary Exercise Testing (CPET) in young women of reproductive age were assessed using the MEDLINE (Ovid) database, last searched December 2023. Results were comparatively tabulated but not statistically analysed given underlying variances in data.

RESULTS

The role of exercise testing in the perioperative period as an assessment tool, as well as its safety during pregnancy, was evaluated using 65 studies which met inclusion criteria.

CONCLUSION

There is a significant lack of baseline data regarding these tests in this population, especially amongst the pregnant cohort, which limits the application of exercise testing clinically.

The Impact of Physical Activity on the Development of Postpartum Depression

Although the benefits of physical activity (PA) on mental well‐being are well established, the vulnerability of women during pregnancy and the postpartum period poses challenges in studying the effects of PA on postpartum depression (PPD). This study investigated the association between total and domain‐specific PA levels during pregnancy and postpartum depressive symptoms. The study included 105 healthy pregnant women whose PA status was evaluated by the Serbian version of the Physical Activity Questionnaire during Pregnancy (PPAQ‐SRB) and their postpartum mental health by the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale. Multivariable logistic regression was used to explore the independent relationship between PPAQ‐SRB scores and the prediction of the PPD symptom occurrence. Our analysis revealed that the development of PPD symptomatology was associated with a lower “Total PPAQ‐SRB score” (odds ratio (OR) 0.81; 95% confidence interval (CI) [0.70–0.93]; p = 0.03) and “Total Activity score” (OR 0.82; 95% CI [0.71–0.93]; p = 0.03) as well as lower scores of light‐intensity PA (OR 0.81; 95% CI [0.69–0.96]; p = 0.013), moderate‐intensity PA (OR 0.82; 95% CI [0.71–0.94]; p = 0.005), “Household/care” (OR 0.85; 95% CI [0.73–0.98]; p = 0.028), and “Occupational” activities (OR 0.80; 95% CI [0.78–0.95]; p = 0.012). Lower levels of light‐to‐moderate‐intensity household and occupational activities appeared to increase the risk of PPD, indicating the importance of circumstances under which PA is performed. Hence, our findings indicate that PA during pregnancy can mitigate mood disorders in postpartum mothers. Moreover, reduced participation in light‐to‐moderate‐intensity household and occupational activities seemed to increase the risk of PPD.

High psychological stress levels related to delivery can increase the occurrence of postpartum mental disorders

Objective

The study sought to explore the relationship between high psychological stress levels related to delivery and postpartum mental disorders.

Methods

A total of 284 parturients were included in the study from July 2021 to January 2022. The stress level at 1 month postpartum was assessed by the Impact of Event Scale-Revised (IES-R). Parturients with an IES-R score ≤ 9 were included in the low psychological stress level group, and those with an IES-R score > 9 were included in the high psychological stress level group. The Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS), Union Physio-Psycho-Social Assessment Questionnaire (UPPSAQ-70), Symptom Checklist-90 (SCL-90) and Mini-International Neuropsychiatric Interview (M.I.N.I.) were conducted at 42 ± 7 days postpartum to assess the mental health of parturients.The parturients' mental health after birth was assessed by the EPDS, UPPSAQ-70, and SCL-90. Semi-structured diagnostic interviews were conducted at 42 ± 7 days postpartum by using the M.I.N.I.

Results

The incidence rate of postpartum mental disorders was 20.42% (58/284), the incidence rates of postpartum depression, anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder and posttraumatic stress disorder were 17.96% (51/284), 11.97% (34/284), 4.58% (13/284) and 1.41% (4/284), respectively, and the comorbidity rate was 58.62% (34/58). A history of mental disorders and pregnancy complications were risk factors for postpartum depression (p = 0.028, p = 0.040, respectively); a history of mental disorders, a lack of physical exercise, partner violence and pregnancy complications were risk factors for postpartum anxiety disorders (p = 0.003, p = 0.007, p = 0.031, p = 0.048, respectively); and the delivery of female infants was a risk factor for postpartum obsessive-compulsive disorder (p = 0.022).The risk of postpartum depression, anxiety disorders and obsessive-compulsive disorder was 9.125 times (95% CI = 3.900 ~ 21.349, p < 0.01), 7.310 times (95% CI = 2.588 ~ 20.649, p < 0.01) and 6.259 times (95% CI = 1.347 ~ 29.093, p < 0.01) higher in postpartum women with high psychological stress levels related to delivery than in those with low psychological stress levels, respectively.

Conclusion

The incidence of postpartum mental disorders is high and has a positive correlation with the level of psychological stress. This may lead to a new perspective of the effect of psychological stress on postpartum mental disorders and attract more attention to other mental disorders in addition to postpartum depression.

Mitochondrial might: powering the peripartum for risk and resilience

The peripartum period, characterized by dynamic hormonal shifts and physiological adaptations, has been recognized as a potentially vulnerable period for the development of mood disorders such as postpartum depression (PPD). Stress is a well-established risk factor for developing PPD and is known to modulate mitochondrial function. While primarily known for their role in energy production, mitochondria also influence processes such as stress regulation, steroid hormone synthesis, glucocorticoid response, GABA metabolism, and immune modulation - all of which are crucial for healthy pregnancy and relevant to PPD pathology. While mitochondrial function has been implicated in other psychiatric illnesses, its role in peripartum stress and mental health remains largely unexplored, especially in relation to the brain. In this review, we first provide an overview of mitochondrial involvement in processes implicated in peripartum mood disorders, underscoring their potential role in mediating pathology. We then discuss clinical and preclinical studies of mitochondria in the context of peripartum stress and mental health, emphasizing the need for better understanding of this relationship. Finally, we propose mitochondria as biological mediators of resilience to peripartum mood disorders.

Social support for exercise from pregnancy to postpartum and the potential impact of a mobile application: A randomized control pilot trial in Southern United States

This study compared perceived social support among women of all body mass index (BMI) categories with an attempt to assess the efficacy of the BumptUp® mobile application to improve social support for exercise during pregnancy and postpartum. Thirty-five pregnant women living in Southern United States were included in the sample. The intervention group received access to the BumptUp® mobile application that was designed to promote physical activity during pregnancy and postpartum. The control group received an evidence-based educational brochure. Perceived social support for exercise was assessed at four-time points using the social support and exercise survey. Outcomes were evaluated at 23-25, 35-37 gestational weeks, and 6 and 12 weeks postpartum. Based on their pre-pregnancy weight and height, BMI was computed to categorize participants into lean, overweight, and obese groups. Social support across BMI categories and between control and intervention groups were compared using linear mixed-effect models. Women grouped in the overweight and obese BMI categories reported receiving significantly lower levels of social support for exercise than women in the lean category throughout pregnancy and postpartum during mid-pregnancy, late pregnancy, and at 12 weeks postpartum (p < 0.05). Although the intervention group received higher social support than the control group throughout all four assessment points, the difference was not statistically significant (p > 0.05). Women with a pre-pregnancy BMI of overweight and obese received lower social support for exercise during pregnancy and postpartum. The efficacy of BumptUp® to improve perceived social support for exercise in pregnancy and postpartum was not evident in the results.

Association of Outdoor Physical Activity and Sports with Life Satisfaction among Women of Reproductive Age According to a European Representative Sample-A Longitudinal Analysis

(1) Background: Low life satisfaction (LS) is associated with impaired mental and physical health. Outdoor physical activity (PA) has diverse somatic and psychological benefits. This study aimed to analyse the associations between sports settings and LS in women of reproductive age. (2) Methods: Special Eurobarometer on Sport and Physical Activity (2022, 2018, 2013) data on regularity and settings of sports/PA, LS and sociodemographic variables were analysed. The representative sample consisted of 18,489 women (34.60 ± 9.36 years). Pearson χ2 test and multivariate logistic regression analysis were conducted, using IBM SPSS version 28.0 according to the STROBE guidelines. The significance level was set at p < 0.05. (3) There was a significant difference in LS based on sports settings (χ2 = 409.696, p < 0.001). In the outdoor group, a 21.4% higher probability of being "very satisfied" compared to the non-outdoor, 30.0% higher compared to the inactive group, was found (R2N = 0.151). Dividing the sample by age, a significant effect remained in middle adulthood (35-44 years p = 0.002 and 45-49 years p = 0.033). (4) Conclusions: Our results underline the importance of the promotion of outdoor, green exercise and the development of special interventions to maintain or improve the psychological well-being of women in reproductive age.

Impact and Influence of Urinary Incontinence on Physical Activity Levels

Background

The benefits of physical activity are numerous on both physical and mental levels. Urinary incontinence (UI) can influence physical activity level; among US women, nearly two out of three view this problem as a barrier to physical activity, meaning that they do not exercise, exercise less, or even have to change their activity routines to accommodate this pelvic floor dysfunction.

Objective

To determine whether UI influences the pattern of physical activity and whether a greater impact of urinary symptoms could influence the level of physical activity.

Design setting and participants

An observational study was carried out with women in 2021 and 2022 in Spain.

Outcome measurements and statistical analysis

The main dependent variable was level physical activity, as measured by the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ). The Urogenital Distress Inventory (UDI-6) scale was used to determine the presence of UI and its impact. Sociodemographic, health status, lifestyle and obstetric data were obtained. Bivariate and multivariate analyses were performed using binary logistic regression, obtaining adjusted odds ratio (aOR) with its 95% confidence interval (95% CI).

Results and limitations

A total of 1446 women participated, of whom 55.8% (807) had UI and 25.7% (371) reported low physical activity. Mixed incontinence (aOR: 1.53; 95% CI: 1.09-2.15) overall and a greater intensity of urinary symptoms (UDI-6 score; aOR: 1.014; 95% CI: 1.01-1.02) in the group of women with incontinence were statistically associated with a higher frequency of low physical activity. Other variables related to low physical activity were age, body mass index, pelvic pain, and income level (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Mixed-type UI is associated with low-level physical activity or inactivity in the whole group of women, while among women with UI, the greater impact of the symptoms increases the probability of low physical activity or inactivity.

Patient summary

In this report, it is analyzed how urinary incontinence affects physical activity. It was found that women who suffer from mixed-type urinary incontinence have a low level of physical activity or inactivity, while those who experience a greater impact of urinary incontinence symptoms have an increased likelihood of having low physical activity or inactivity.

A Comprehensive Review of Motherhood and Mental Health: Postpartum Mood Disorders in Focus

The journey of motherhood encompasses a profound array of emotions, experiences, and challenges that extend beyond the surface of joy and elation. This review delves into the crucial yet often underexplored realm of postpartum mood disorders, aiming to illuminate their significance and foster understanding. Postpartum mood disorders, including postpartum depression, anxiety disorders, and psychosis, impact the mental well-being of mothers during a pivotal phase of their lives. Through a comprehensive exploration, this review elucidates the various dimensions of these disorders, from their definitions and classifications to their prevalence and impact on both mothers and families. Identifying and diagnosing postpartum mood disorders is discussed in detail, shedding light on the emotional, cognitive, and physical symptoms that warrant attention. Screening and assessment tools are highlighted as essential instruments for early detection, while challenges in diagnosis, including the overlap with typical postpartum experiences and the influence of stigma, are explored. The review further delves into treatment and intervention, underscoring the importance of psychotherapy, pharmacological interventions, and individualised treatment plans. The roles of healthcare providers and mental health professionals in offering support and guidance are emphasised, emphasising the significance of a collaborative approach. Cultural and societal influences are crucial in shaping perceptions of motherhood and mental health. The review explores how these influences can create barriers to seeking help and highlights the importance of destigmatising postpartum mood disorders. It underscores the urgency of raising awareness and fostering a supportive environment that empowers mothers to seek assistance without fear of judgment. Looking toward the future, the review points to potential research directions, such as advances in understanding hormonal influences and exploring the long-term effects on maternal mental health. The overarching call to action resonates - increased awareness, support, and dismantling stigma are imperative. A hopeful vision is presented: a future where all mothers receive appropriate mental health care, no mother stands alone in her motherhood journey, and societal understanding and compassion thrive.

Beneficial Effects of Limosilactobacillus reuteri PBS072 and Bifidobacterium breve BB077 on Mood Imbalance, Self-Confidence, and Breastfeeding in Women during the First Trimester Postpartum

Background: The post-delivery period could be characterized by psychological distress (e.g., anxiety, sadness, and irritability), leading to postpartum depression (PPD). Objective: The present clinical study assesses the effect of probiotic supplementation containing Limosilactobacillus reuteri PBS072 and Bifidobacterium breve BB077 (4 × 109 CFU/day) on the mother's mood and breastfeeding quality during the first trimester after delivery. Methods: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Controlled (RDBPC) trial was carried out on 200 healthy new mothers divided into an active group taking a supplement containing Limosilactobacillus reuteri PBS072 and Bifidobacterium breve BB077 (4 × 109 CFU/day) plus multivitamins and a control group (multivitamin complex only) for 90 days. Symptoms related to maternal depression and breastfeeding quality were evaluated at days 45 and 90 using the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) and the Breastfeeding Self-Efficacy Scale-Short Form (BSES-SF). Results: At days 45 and 90, the probiotic treatment significantly ameliorated the mothers' mood compared to the control treatment (p < 0.001). Likewise, the breastfeeding quality and the baby's cries significantly improved in the probiotic group (p < 0.001). Conclusions: Microbiota alterations could influence a post-delivery woman's mental state. According to our results, L. reuteri PBS072 and B. breve BB077 are potential candidates that are able to improve stress resilience in the postpartum period.

Association of Physical Activity with the Prevention and Treatment of Depression During the Postpartum Period: A Narrative Review

The benefits of physical activity during pregnancy or postpartum are auspicious, especially in preventing and treating postpartum depression. This review aimed to examine the relationship between exercise and postpartum depression in terms of prevention and treatment. The goals were to determine if exercise alone is sufficient for this purpose and to attract attention to the kind, intensity, and duration needed to achieve this purpose. A literature review was conducted in PubMed, PubMed Central, MEDLINE, and Cochrane libraries. The search terms were "physical activity," "postpartum depression," "postnatal depression," and "exercise." Physical activity can be a preventative measure and a treatment aid for pregnant or postpartum women with depressive disorders. However, the exercise protocol should include a support/wellness program to achieve better and more remarkable results.

Physical Activity and the Impact of Continued Exercise on Health-Related Quality of Life Prior to and during Pregnancy: A German Cohort Study

The goal of this study was to examine how regular physical activity before and during pregnancy affected life quality throughout pregnancy. Between July 2020 and May 2021, 218 pregnant women were recruited from 11 outpatient clinics for this survey. Data were collected prospectively in a panel format beginning with the 10th gestational week over a 20-week period. Prior to pregnancy, a previous time point was also defined. The International Physical Activity Questionnaire, the EQ-5D-3L questionnaire, and the EQ-VAS questionnaire were used to collect data on the duration and intensity of daily physical exercises, as well as to assess health-related quality of life and self-estimated health status. The final survey included data from 113 women. During pregnancy, physical activity decreased dramatically. The duration of strenuous activities, but not moderate activities, was significantly reduced. Continuous physical activity independently predicted higher life quality scores at all points of assessment. Cases who participated in moderate and strenuous activities on a regular basis had higher self-estimated health status scores than cases who only participated in moderate activity. Instead of focusing solely on specific types of physical activity, we believe that strategies for motivating all pregnant women to be constantly active should be developed.

Evidence-based labor management: postpartum care after vaginal delivery (part 6)

In the setting of postpartum care after vaginal delivery, rooming-in is associated with a higher rate of exclusive breastfeeding rate at hospital discharge, but there is insufficient evidence to support or refute rooming-in to increase breastfeeding at 6 months. Education and support for breastfeeding are valuable interventions to promote initiation of breastfeeding whether it is offered by a healthcare professional, nonhealthcare professional, or peer. A combined intervention, a professional provider-led intervention, having a protocol available for the provider training program, and implementation during both the prenatal and postnatal periods increased the rate of exclusive breastfeeding for 6 months. There is no single effective treatment for breast engorgement. Breast massage, continuing breastfeeding, and pain relief are recommended by national guidelines. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and acetaminophen are better than placebo for relief of pain caused by uterine cramping and perineal trauma; acetaminophen is effective in breastfeeding individuals who underwent episiotomy; and local cooling pain relievers have been shown to reduce perineal pain for 24 to 72 hours, compared with no treatment. There is insufficient evidence to assess the safety and efficacy of postpartum routine universal thromboprophylaxis after vaginal delivery. Anti-D immune globulin administration is recommended in Rhesus-negative individuals who have given birth to a Rhesus-positive infant. There is very low-quality evidence that a universal complete blood count is useful in reducing the risk of receiving blood products. In the absence of any postpartum complication, there is insufficient evidence to recommend a routine postpartum ultrasound. Measles, mumps, and rubella combination; varicella; human papillomavirus; and tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis vaccines should be administered in nonimmune individuals in the postpartum period. Smallpox and yellow fever vaccines should be avoided. Individuals undergoing postplacental placement are more likely to use an intrauterine device at 6 months than those advised to follow-up for placement during outpatient postpartum care. An implant is safe and effective for immediate postpartum contraception. There is insufficient evidence to support or refute the routine administration of micronutrient supplements in breastfeeding women. Placentophagia does not provide any benefits and exposes mothers and offspring to infectious risks. Therefore, it should be discouraged. Because of the low level of evidence, there is insufficient data to assess the efficacy of home visits in the postpartum period. There is insufficient evidence to recommend when to resume daily activities, and individuals should be counseled to return to prepregnancy level of activity or exercise when comfortable. Sexual activity, housework exercise, driving, climbing stairs, and lifting weights should be resumed as soon as postpartum individuals want. A behavioral educational intervention reduces depression symptoms and increases breastfeeding duration. Physical activity after delivery is protective against postpartum mood disorders. There is no strong evidence that supports early discharge after vaginal delivery compared with standard discharge (ie, ≥48 hours).

The Level of Stress and Anxiety in Pregnant Women Depending on Social Support and Physical Activity

Social support and physical activity are mentioned among the numerous factors affecting the emotional state of pregnant women. Therefore, the aim of the study was to assess the level of perceived stress and anxiety in pregnant women depending on social support and their physical activity both before and during pregnancy and find the factors that affected the level of perceived stress.

METHODS

A total of 373 pregnant women were qualified for the study. The Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10), the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI), and a self-administered questionnaire were used.

RESULTS

In the study group, a high level of stress and anxiety were noted. A comparative analysis showed that physically active women before pregnancy, women attending childbirth classes and remaining in a relationship, were characterized by a lower level of stress and anxiety compared to physically inactive women, women who did not participate in childbirth classes and were single. A multiple linear regression analysis showed that participation in childbirth classes, physical activity before pregnancy, the level of anxiety as a trait, and women's age had the most significant impact on the stress level of surveyed women.

CONCLUSIONS

Further research among pregnant women and women in the postpartum period is needed to confirm the benefits of physical activity and to identify as many factors as possible that may affect the emotional state of pregnant women.

Impact of a postpartum care rehabilitation program to prevent postpartum depression at a secondary municipal hospital in Qingdao China: a cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND

The emerging postpartum rehabilitation (PPR) program in Chinese hospitals characterized by applying ongoing medical care through traditional cultural practices shows a protective effect in early puerperium in China. This study explores the benefit of PPR program practices to postpartum depression (PPD) and the influencing factors for PPD among Chinese women during the first postnatal six weeks.

METHODS

The cross-sectional study included 403 participants and was conducted in a Secondary Municipal Hospital in Qingdao, China, from 01 to 2018 to 31 December 2021. Information on this PPR program was collected during the six-weeks postpartum consultation, including the Edinburgh postnatal depression scale (EPDS) scores, the measurement results for diastasis recti abdominis, and the international physical activity questionnaire (long form) (IPAQ-L) scores. Logistic regression models were used to examine the effect of the PPR program on PPD among the local population. The secondary aim of this study was to investigate possible influencing factors for PPD, such as coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), physical exercises, etc. RESULTS: PPR program has shown a positive effect in preventing PPD (p < 0.001) and diastasis recti prevalence (p < 0.001) during the six-weeks postnatal control in Qingdao, China. Better post-pregnancy weight reduction (p = 0.04) and higher metabolic equivalent of task (MET) value (p < 0.001) were noticed in the non-PPR group. Furthermore, lower PPD risk was associated with factors such as longer relationship duration years (2-5 years) (p = 0.04) and exercising one to three times a week (p = 0.01). A higher PPD risk was related to factors such as urinary incontinence during the postpartum period (p = 0.04) and subjective insomnia (p < 0.001). No significant effect was shown between COVID-19 and the EPDS score in this study (p = 0.50).

CONCLUSION

Our results suggested that the PPR program provided protection against PPD and diastasis recti during the first six weeks after delivery. Urinary incontinence and subjective insomnia were the main risk factors for PPD, while longer relationship duration years and exercising one to three times a week gave protective effects to PPD. This study emphasized that a comprehensive ongoing medical care program, such as the PPR program, effectively improves women's mental and physical health in the early postpartum in China.

Investigation of the effects of physical activity level on functionality level and quality of life in the postpartum period

BACKGROUND

Physical activity, known to have positive effects in every period of life, may decrease due to anatomical and physiological changes and increased responsibilities in the postpartum period. This study aimed to understand how women's physical activity levels, functional levels, and quality of life are affected in the postpartum period and to emphasize the importance of physical activity levels in the postpartum period.

METHODS

The population of our study was planned as a cross-sectional study of postpartum women who applied to a private center. The sample consists of 101 volunteer postpartum women participating in the study. Physical activity levels; with the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ), postpartum functional levels; with the Inventory of Functional Status After Childbirth (IFSAC), postpartum quality of life level; with Maternal Postpartum Quality of Life (MAPP-QOL) were evaluated.

RESULTS

It was determined that the amount of physical activity of postpartum women was 928.347 ± 281.27 MET-min/week, which means low physical activity level, and 35.64% were not physically active. The mean total score of IFSAC was 2.13 ± 0.79, and the mean total score of MAPP-QOL was 16.93 ± 6.87. It was determined that there was a positive and significant correlation (p < 0.05) between IPAQ and IFSAC (r = 0.034) and MAPP-QOL (r = 0.214). A significant difference was found when the IFSAC and MAPP-QOL scores were compared between the three groups with different physical activity levels (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

As a result, it was observed that the physical activity levels of women in the postpartum period were low, negatively affecting their functionality and quality of life.

Women’s Experiences Regarding Physical Activity during the Postpartum Period: A Feminist Poststructuralist Study

Although recovery after birth can be promoted through bodily movement, many women do not engage in regular postpartum physical activity. While research studies have identified some of the reasons behind their decisions, including a lack of time, only a limited number of studies have been carried out to explore how postpartum physical activity is socially and institutionally constructed. Thus, the present study aimed to investigate the experiences of women regarding postpartum physical activity in Nova Scotia. Six postpartum mothers participated in semi-structured, virtual, in-depth interviews. Women’s experiences of postpartum physical activity were examined through a discourse analysis guided by feminist poststructuralism. The following themes were identified: (a) socialization in different ways; (b) social support; (c) mental and emotional health; and (d) being a good role model for their children. The findings indicated that all women perceived postpartum exercise as a positive behavior that can promote mental health, although some postpartum mothers experienced social isolation and a lack of support. Furthermore, social discourses about motherhood caused the personal needs of mothers to be disregarded. The results showed that collaboration among health care providers, mothers, investigators, and community groups is necessary to promote and support mothers’ engagement in postpartum physical activity.

The neglected spectrum of COVID-19 pandemic - postpartum depression among COVID-19 infected South-Indian women - a cohort study

The study aims to explore the burden of postpartum depression among COVID-19-infected mothers and stressor factors. A single-centre observational cohort study was conducted in South India to evaluate postpartum depression among 106 COVID-19-infected women who delivered from December 2020 to May 2021. Also, stressor factors related to COVID-19 infection were figured out to analyse their role in depression. Almost half of the COVID-19-infected mothers had a global EPDS score ≥ 10 and were at risk of depression during the pandemic. The depressive symptoms were not confined to the immediate postpartum period, but significantly impacted mothers until 6 months following childbirth. SYNOPSIS: COVID-19 infection not only affects the physical well-being but also adversely affects the mental health of the infected persons. Postpartum mothers who require the utmost care and support, are facing social deprivation due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This triggers the already fragile mental state of postpartum women and may worsen the level of depression.

The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on the Level of Physical Activity, Emotional State, and Health Habits of Women in Late Pregnancy and Early Puerperium

The aim of the study was to determine the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on the level of physical activity in the last trimester, the risk of developing postnatal depression, and general health habits in late pregnancy and the early postpartum period.

METHODS

The study population was women 1-8 days postpartum. Participants were divided into three groups depending on when they were recruited: (1) prepandemic (Ppan: n = 252, December 2019-March 2020), (2) COVID1 group (Cov1: n = 262, May 2020-September 2020), and (3) COVID2 group (Cov2: n = 226, June 2021-September 2021). The Ppan group included women from before the pandemic. The Cov1 group included patients after some restrictions were lifted. The Cov2 group included women after vaccinations became available. Research tools included a demographical questionnaire (age, education, childbirth details), the Pregnancy Physical Activity Questionnaire (PPAQ), the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS), and the Health Behavior Inventory (IZZ).

RESULTS

Regression analysis showed that regardless of other variables, women who gave birth during the pandemic spent less energy on total physical activity compared to the prepandemic group (Cov1: β = -18.930, 95%CI: -36.499 to -1.361; Cov2: β = -26.527, 95%CI: -44.322 to -8.733). We also found that as the risk of depression increased, engagement in general health habits decreased during the pandemic.

CONCLUSIONS

The Covid-19 pandemic decreased the level of some subdomains of physical activity in pregnant women, with a general negative correlation between emotional state and healthy habits.

Understanding the challenges and impact of training on referral of postnatal women to a community physical activity programme by health professionals: A qualitative study using the COM-B model

OBJECTIVE

To understand the value of training for health professionals for improving their ability to effectively refer postnatal women to a targeted community physical activity programme. The study also sought to understand challenges to effective referral of postnatal women from deprived areas.

DESIGN, SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS

Semi-structured interviews were conducted in January-February 2020 with early years practitioners (n = 4), health visitors (n = 1) and community midwives (n = 2) who had participated in a training workshop implemented as part of a targeted community physical activity referral programme for postnatal women from deprived areas in the North East of England. Two follow up interviews were also conducted with one midwife and one early years practitioner during the Covid-19 pandemic. Data were analysed thematically and the Capability, Opportunity, Motivation, Behaviour (COM-B) model was employed to facilitate identification of the impact of training and the challenges in referral from the health professionals' perspective.

FINDINGS

The training increased capability to refer by improving knowledge and confidence of health professionals in being able to give appropriate guidance to postnatal women about physical activity without having to refer to other professionals. Health professionals reported adequate opportunities to engage with postnatal women, were motivated to refer and perceived this to be part of their role. The timing and method of message delivery were key contexts for perceived successful referral, particularly for midwives who wanted to ensure the messaging began in the antenatal period. Low staffing levels, limited interprofessional collaboration and finding strategies to engage women from deprived areas were key challenges to effective delivery of physical activity messages. These challenges were exacerbated during Covid-19, with increased mental health issues amongst postnatal women.

KEY CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE

Training health professionals for physical activity messaging can be a useful way to increase capability, opportunity, and motivation to refer to physical activity interventions for postnatal women in deprived areas to potentially increase physical wellbeing and reduce postnatal depression. The COM-B is a relevant framework to underpin training. A clearly identified referral pathway and staffing issues need to be addressed to improve referrals by health professionals.

Coffee and caffeine intake and depression in postpartum women: A cross-sectional study from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2007-2018

This cross-sectional study examines the association between coffee and caffeine consumption and depressive symptoms in postpartum women. In total, 821 postpartum women who met the study's inclusion criteria were interviewed. Data were extracted from the 2007-2018 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Coffee consumption and 11 confounding variables were considered and analyzed as baseline data. Weighted logistic regression models were constructed by adjusting the variables, and the odds ratios of total coffee, caffeinated coffee, and decaffeinated coffee were assessed for their impact on depression status. In addition, subgroup analyses were conducted according to race, breastfeeding status, and postpartum period. The results show that generic coffee and caffeinated coffee intake have a potentially protective effect in postpartum women. Drinking more than three cups of caffeinated coffee may lower the risk of postpartum depression, particularly in the 1-2 year postpartum period and in non-breastfeeding women. The association between decaffeinated coffee consumption and postpartum depression remains unclear.

Exploring Antenatal Exercise: Knowledge, Attitudes, Practices, and Influencing Factors among Pregnant Women in Libya

Background

Antenatal exercise is crucial in promoting pregnant women's health and well-being. However, no research in Libya examined the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of antenatal exercise among pregnant women.

Methods

This cross-sectional study aimed to explore the knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to antenatal exercise among pregnant women in Libya. A convenience sample of pregnant women (n = 205) receiving prenatal care at Misrata Medical Center and having no contraindication for exercise participated in the study. A self-administered, previously elaborated questionnaire was used to assess participants' awareness, knowledge, attitudes, and practice of antenatal exercise. Descriptive statistics and binary logistic regression analysis were employed using SPSS version 28.

Results

The findings revealed that nearly half of the participants demonstrated good knowledge (56.1%) and a positive attitude (47.8%) regarding antenatal exercise. Less than one-third (30.2%) of participants engaged in some form of exercise during pregnancy. The logistic regression results showed that age, income, and practice of exercise before pregnancy significantly contributed to the knowledge score. The analysis indicated that the unemployment status (AOR = 2.42, 95% CI [0.78-6.38], P = .03) and practicing exercise before pregnancy (AOR = 1.97, 95% CI [0.92-4.24], P = .02) were significantly associated with a higher likelihood of engaging in antenatal exercise. The main subjective reasons for pregnant women not engaging in antenatal exercise were lack of time, poor knowledge, fatigue, and worries about harming the baby.

Conclusion

This study sheds light on the current state of antenatal exercise among pregnant women in Libya and highlights the factors shaping these behaviors. The findings underscore the importance of promoting accurate knowledge, addressing misconceptions, and providing support and resources to overcome barriers and encourage safe and effective antenatal exercise practices in Libya. Future studies should consider employing qualitative or mixed methods research designs to examine antenatal exercise from different perspectives.

The emotional state and social support of pregnant women attending childbirth classes in the context of physical activity

Childbirth classes combined with elements of psychoprophylaxis and psychoeducation prepare women and their partners for childbirth and influence the level of their perceived stress and mood disorders. Participation in these classes may come as a form of support for pregnant women, or an opportunity to build self-efficacy and commence regular physical activity. The aim of this study was assess the emotional state, social support and self-efficacy of pregnant women attending childbirth classes, in the context of physical activity undertaken. The study included 101 pregnant women. The Berlin Social Support Scale (BSSS), the General Self-Efficacy Scale (GSES), the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10) and the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI) were used during their first day of attendance at the childbirth classes (initial survey; T1) and after 10 weeks of participation in these classes (final survey; T2). After 10 weeks of childbirth classes, there was a statistically significant change in the BSSS, specifically in the area of Perceived Available Support, GSES, PSS-10, and STAI X-2. There was no significant relationship established between the emotional state and the physical activity undertaken before and during pregnancy or with the social support received.

The Fibrinolytic System in Peripartum Depression

The relationship between depression and reduced fibrinolytic activity reflects the role of tissue plasminogen activator and plasmin in brain remodeling underlying resilience, depression remission, and reward processing, rather than the dissolution of fibrin clots. Individuals who experience depression demonstrate hippocampal and prefrontal cortex atrophy, as well as impaired neuronal connectivity. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), synthesized as a precursor that is activated through cleavage by tissue plasminogen activator and plasmin, influences adult neurogenesis and neuronal plasticity in the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex. Depression is associated with decreased brain levels of BDNF, due to reduced activity of tissue plasminogen activator and plasmin. Tissue plasminogen activator and plasmin also mediate the release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter implicated in motivation and reward. Peripartum depression defines a depressive episode that occurs during pregnancy or in the first month after delivery, reinforcing the concept that postpartum depression may be a continuum of antenatal depression. This article describes the fibrinolytic status in the healthy brain, in stress and depression, emphasizing the links between biological markers of depression and defective fibrinolysis. It also discusses the association between hypofibrinolysis and risk factors for perinatal depression, including polycystic ovary syndrome, early miscarriage, preeclampsia, stressful life events, sedentariness, eating habits, gestational and type 2 diabetes, and antithyroid peroxidase antibodies. In addition, it reviews the evidence that antidepressant medications and interventions as diverse as placebo, psychotherapy, massage, video game playing, regular exercise, dietary modifications, omega 3 fatty acid supplementation, neurohormones, and cigarette smoking may reduce depression by restoring the fibrinolytic activity. Last, it suggests new directions for research.

The Translation and Cross-Cultural Adaptation of the Pregnancy Physical Activity Questionnaire: Validity and Reliability of a Serbian Version (PPAQ-SRB)

Exercise during pregnancy has a positive effect on the health of both pregnant women and their fetuses. This study aimed to translate the Pregnancy Physical Activity Questionnaire (PPAQ) into the Serbian language and assess its validity and reliability among Serbian pregnant women. The study was conducted between October 2020 and March 2021 at the Obstetrics and Gynecology Clinic (Narodni Front), in Belgrade, Serbia. The PPAQ was translated according to a standardized methodology, and its internal consistency and construct and concurrent validity were assessed. The mean PPAQ score for the total amount of physical activity was 37.72 MET-h/week⁻¹. Exploratory factor analysis of the Serbian PPAQ identified six factors similar to the original questionnaire that explained 70.26% of the data variance. The Cronbach’s alpha coefficient of the Serbian version of the PPAQ was 0.69. The two-week intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) scores ranged from 0.768 to 0.930. We tested the evidence to assess the concurrent validity of the Serbian version of PPAQ (PPAQ-SRB) correlations with the International Physical Activity Questionnaire-long form (IPAQ-LF), and all domains of the PPAQ were significantly correlated with domains of the IPAQ-LF. The findings of our reliability and validity evaluation are consistent with those of prior studies, indicating that the PPAQ was successfully translated and implemented in the Serbian population and that its reliability was acceptable.

Online and Offline Intervention for the Prevention of Postpartum Depression among Rural-to-Urban Floating Women: Study Protocol for a Randomized Control Trial

Background: As a higher-risk group of postpartum depression (PPD), rural to urban floating women urgently require effective and accessible mental health care after childbirth to prevent PPD. Even though there were various interventions, only a small number of women have sought professional help to reduce their depressive symptoms after childbirth, suggesting the need for an innovative intervention delivery to overcome women’s help-seeking barriers. Online and offline (OTO) interventions, which combine face-to-face and internet-based interventions, provide apparent benefits. As a result, the protocol for a randomized controlled study (RCT) was designed to examine the effectiveness and acceptability of OTO intervention on psychosocial outcomes for Chinese rural-to-urban floating women including the reduction of PPD symptoms and PPD stigma, and the improvement of social support and quality of life. Methods: A double blind, multicenter, RCT will be used and a total of 226 participants will be recruited. The OTO intervention called the “Hi, Mom” program will integrate two face-to-face consulting sessions with online sessions comprising an information module, a communication module, an ask-the-expert module, and a peer story module over a period of three months. The control group will receive routine postpartum care. Outcome measures including PPD symptoms, PPD stigma, social support, quality of life, mother–child bonding, and satisfaction with health care received will be conducted at baseline, postintervention, and three-month follow-up. Results and Discussion: If the intervention is effective, it will provide a convenient and effective intervention program on postpartum mental well-being for rural-to-urban floating women. As the first study to test the effects of an OTO intervention for the prevention of PPD in China, the outcomes gained from this study will provide evidence-based knowledge for clinical practice on PPD prevention based on online and offline health technologies. Moreover, it could be used to plan a culturally appropriate OTO intervention for migrant mothers from different countries.

The COVID-19 Pandemic and Levels of Physical Activity in the Last Trimester, Life Satisfaction and Perceived Stress in Late Pregnancy and in the Early Puerperium

Background: The aim of this study was to determine the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the levels of physical activity during the third trimester of pregnancy, life satisfaction and stress in women in late pregnancy and early postpartum. Methods: The study was conducted among 740 patients of maternity wards in Cracow hospitals on days 1−8 postpartum. Patients who were surveyed before the pandemic (December 2019−March 2020) were included in the prepandemic group (PPan: n = 252). The second group of women (COVID 1 group, Cov1: n = 262) was examined in the early stages of the pandemic (May−September 2020). In turn, participants who were surveyed during the population vaccination campaign (June−September 2021) were qualified to the COVID 2 group (Cov2: n = 226). The research tools used were the original questionnaire in addition to standardized questionnaires assessing physical activity in the last trimester of pregnancy (the Pregnancy Physical Activity Questionnaire); previous life satisfaction (the Satisfaction with Life Scale); and stress levels during the last month (the Perceived Stress Scale). Results: During the pandemic, women reduced the level of energy spent on total physical activity; nevertheless, statistically significant differences were found only between the PPan and Cov2 groups (p = 0.001). At the early stages of the pandemic, patients significantly reduced mobility activities (Cov1 vs. PPan: p < 0.001; Cov1 vs. Cov2: p = 0.007), while late in the pandemic they spent less energy on household activities (Cov2 vs. PPan: p = 0.002, Cov2 vs. Cov1: p = 0.002). There were no differences in the levels of stress and life satisfaction. Conclusions: The COVID-19 pandemic impacted the level of physical activity; however, it did not change levels of perceived stress and life satisfaction in women in late-stage pregnancy and in the early puerperium.

Does Prenatal Physical Activity Affect the Occurrence of Postnatal Anxiety and Depression? Longitudinal Study

The aim of the foregoing study was to assess whether physical activity during pregnancy affects the occurrence of anxiety and depression during pregnancy, postpartum and 6 months following childbirth. This study tried to answer the following questions: How was the incidence of depression and anxiety different in the pre- and postpartum periods? What intensity level of physical activity protects against the symptoms of anxiety and depression? Does the time spent engaged in sedentary activities and MVPA affect the occurrence of depression and anxiety before and after childbirth? The study group under analysis consisted of 187 women aged 19–41 years. The research was conducted between April 2016 and November 2020. The study was divided into four stages: T0—qualification to participate in the study; T1—medical history acquisition, consisting of a short questionnaire and two long questionnaires (the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) and General Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7)), as well as an assessment of 7-day physical activity using Actigraph accelerometers during the pregnancy; T2—the completion of the EPDS and GAD-7 questionnaires after the birth; T3—the completion of the EPDS and GAD-7 questionnaire 6 months after giving birth. The obtained results were statistically processed in the Statistica 13.3 software package. A significance level of p < 0.05 was assumed. The highest percentage of depression occurred immediately after the delivery, followed by 6 months after delivery, and the smallest number of women suffered from depression before the birth (p < 0.001). The analysis of correlations of physical activity with anxiety symptoms did not show significant correlations. However, the situation is different in the case of depression symptoms. Women taking fewer steps before delivery showed a greater tendency to develop depressive symptoms before, immediately after and 6 months after the delivery (p < 0.001). Women who were less active (took fewer steps per day, spent less time in moderate-to-vigorous physical (MVPA) activities or spent more time being sedentary) showed symptoms of depression on the EPDS scale. It appeared that those with severe anxiety symptoms had the highest sedentary time scores before the delivery (p = 0.020). Reduced physical activity promotes the onset of postnatal depression, while being active reduces this risk. Interestingly, even light physical activity “protects” against the occurrence of depression and is better than sedentary activities. Such clear conclusions cannot be drawn in relation to anxiety symptoms. Sedentary behaviour may promote anxiety symptoms immediately after childbirth, but this study should be continued in order to confirm it during other time periods.

Optimizing Health and Athletic Performance for Women

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The exponential growth of women participating in competitive sports throughout the years was made possible through several initiatives by the International Olympic Committee and the passage and implementation of Title IX as a federal law in the United States. However, this positive trend towards gender equity in sports has not transpired for women in medicine, especially in fields that care for elite athletes. This current review will discuss specific areas that can be tailored to help female athletes prevent injuries and optimize their athletic performance. We will also highlight how increased female team physician representation in sports may help optimize care for female athletes.

RECENT FINDINGS

Female athletes are considered high risk for certain conditions such as ACL tears, patellofemoral pain syndrome, bone stress injuries, sport-related concussions, and sexual violence in sport. Addressing factors specific to female athletes has been found to be valuable in preventing injuries. Strength and conditioning can optimize athletic performance but remains underutilized among female athletes. Although diversity in healthcare workforce has been found to be beneficial for multiple reasons, women remain underrepresented in sports medicine. Increasing female team physician representation may positively impact care for female athletes. Team physicians must understand the physiologic, biomechanical, and anatomic factors that are unique to female athletes in order to tailor injury prevention programs and optimize their athletic performance. Advocating for gender equity in sports medicine to advance representation of women in the field will increase workforce diversity and promote excellence in sports medicine care.

The Mediating Effect of Coping Style on Physical Activity and Negative Affect Caused by Public Health Emergencies: Evidence from Chinese College Students

In this study, we explored the relationship between physical activity (PA), coping style (CS) and negative affect caused by public health emergencies (PHENA), to examine if CS can play a mediating role between PA and PHENA, and analyzed the different effects of positive coping (PC) and negative coping (NC). Using the method of random sampling, 700 students from four universities in Beijing and Shanghai were recruited to complete questionnaires about PA, CS and PHENA. Data collection was conducted through online and offline questionnaires. Firstly, there is a significant correlation between PA, CS and PHENA. Secondly, PA can negatively predict PHENA, and PA has positive impact on PC and negative impact on NC. Thirdly, the mediating role of NC related to PHENA is significant, the mediating role of PC related to PHENA is not significant. College students’ participation in physical activity can reduce the probability of adopting negative coping mechanisms, thereby alleviating the PHENA.

Association Between Dietary Quality and Postpartum Depression in Lactating Women: A Cross-Sectional Survey in Urban China

Background: Evidence on the effects of dietary quality on the risk of postpartum depression in the Chinese population is limited. This study aimed to examine the association between dietary quality and postpartum depression in Chinses lactating women. Methods: A total of 939 participants from 10 cities were included in this analysis. A one-time 24-h dietary recall was used to obtain the data on food consumption and dietary quality was assessed based on Diet Balance Index. The Edinburgh postnatal depression scale was considered at a cutoff point of 10 to detect postpartum depression. Poisson regression models were used to explore the association of dietary quality with postpartum depression. Results: Depressed women tended to have a more inadequate intake of vegetables and have more insufficient food variety. The median (25th, 75th) of the overall high bound score (HBS), low bound score (LBS), and diet quality distance (DQD) was 9 (5, 14), 30 (25, 37), and 40 (34, 47), respectively. Compared with subjects with the lowest quartile of LBS, those with the highest quartile of LBS had a higher risk of postpartum depression [adjusted prevalence ratio (aPR), 1.08; 95% confidence interval (95% CI), 1.01, 1.15; P for trend, 0.043]. We also observed a significant association between DQD and postpartum depression (Q4 vs. Q1: aPR, 1.07; 95% CI: 1.00, 1.14; P for trend, 0.036). Conclusion: Poor dietary quality was associated with postpartum depression in Chinese lactating women.

Postpartum and Paternal Postnatal Depression: Identification, Risks, and Resources

This article provides an overview of the prevalence and cause of postpartum depression in women and postnatal depression among their male partners, as well as a review of related symptoms, risk factors, and effects on children. Evidence-based screening tools, management options, and resources for patients and providers are also presented.

Effectiveness of Moderate-Intensity Aerobic Water Exercise during Pregnancy on Quality of Life and Postpartum Depression: A Multi-Center, Randomized Controlled Trial

Background: The global prevalence of postpartum depression is about 20%. This disease has serious consequences for women, their infants, and their families. The aim of this randomized clinical trial was to analyze the effectiveness and safety of a moderate-intensity aerobic water exercise program on postpartum depression, sleep problems, and quality of life in women at one month after delivery. Methods: This was a multi-center, parallel, randomized, evaluator blinded, controlled trial in a primary care setting. Pregnant women (14–20 weeks gestational age) who had low risk of complications and were from five primary care centers in the area covered by the obstetrics unit of Son Llatzer Hospital (Mallorca, Spain) were invited to participate. A total of 320 pregnant women were randomly assigned to two groups, an intervention group (moderate aquatic aerobic exercise) and a control group (usual prenatal care). One month after birth, sleep quality (MOS sleep), quality of life (EQ-5D), and presence of anxiety or depression (EPDS) were recorded. Findings: Women in the intervention group were less likely to report anxiety or depression on the EQ5D (11.5% vs. 22.7%; p < 0.05) and had a lower mean EPDS score (6.1 ± 1.9 vs. 6.8 ± 2.4, p < 0.010). The two groups had no significant differences in other outcomes, maternal adverse events, and indicators of the newborn status. Conclusion: Moderate-intensity aquatic exercise during pregnancy decreased postpartum anxiety and depressive symptoms in mothers and was safe for mothers and their newborns.

Predictors of Disability Attributed to Symptoms of Increased Interrecti Distance in Women after Childbirth: An Observational Study

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to investigate how various physical and psychological factors are linked to disability attributed to symptoms from increased interrecti distance (IRD) in women after childbirth.

METHODS

In this cross-sectional observational study, 141 women with an IRD of at least 2 finger-widths and whose youngest child was between the ages of 1 and 8 years participated. A multiple linear regression model was performed, with disability as the outcome variable and fear-avoidance beliefs, emotional distress, body mass index, lumbopelvic pain, IRD, and physical activity level as predictor variables.

RESULTS

The regression model accounted for 60% (R2 = 0.604, adjusted R2 = 0.586) of the variance in disability (F6,132 = 33.5). The 2 strongest predictors were lumbopelvic pain, with a regression coefficient of 1.4 (95% CI = 1.017 to 1.877), and fear avoidance, with a regression coefficient of 0.421 (95% CI = 0.287 to 0.555). The actual IRD, with a regression coefficient of -0.133 (95% CI = -1.154 to 0.888), did not contribute significantly to the variation in disability.

CONCLUSION

Disability attributed to symptoms from an increased IRD is explained primarily by the level of lumbopelvic pain but also by the degree of fear-avoidance beliefs and emotional distress.

IMPACT

This study highlights pain intensity and psychological factors as crucial factors for understanding disability attributed to increased IRD.

Postpartum depression and its association with intimate partner violence and inadequate social support in Ethiopia: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUNDS

Despite remarkable progress in the reduction of maternal mortality, postpartum depression remains a major public health problem among vulnerable populations. In Ethiopia, study findings regarding postpartum depression and its association with intimate partner violence and social support have been inconsistent. Therefore, this systematic review and meta-analysis estimate the pooled prevalence of postpartum depression and its association with intimate partner violence and inadequate social support in Ethiopia.

METHODS

We systematically searched international databases like PubMed, Web of Science, SCOPUS, CINAHL, PsycINFO, Google Scholar, Science Direct, and the Cochrane Library. All identified observational studies reporting the postpartum depression and or its predictors in Ethiopia were included. Two authors independently extracted all necessary data using a standardized data extraction format. The I² statistics were used to assess the heterogeneity of the studies. A random-effects model was computed to estimate the pooled prevalence of postpartum depression and its associations with the selected predictors.

RESULTS

The random effect meta-analysis of thirteen studies showed a pooled prevalence of postpartum depression was 21.55% (95% CI: 17.89, 25.94). The highest prevalence of postpartum depression occurred in Addis Ababa, 23.3% and the lowest was in Harar, 13.11%. Our meta-analysis indicated a 5.46 folds increased risk of postpartum depression among women exposed to intimate partner violence (POR = 5.46 (95%CI: 3.94, 7.56, I²=38.8%) and 6.27 folds increased risk postpartum depression among women who had inadequate social support (POR = 6.27 (95%CI: 4.83, 8.13, I2=0) relative to those who had adequate social support. The meta-analysis further revealed that marital dissatisfaction (POR = 2.6%; 95%CI: 1.48-4.65), previous postpartum depression (POR = 2.03%; 95%CI: 1.72-2.4), and substance abuse (POR = 2.03%; 95%CI: 1.72-2.4) were associated with postpartum depression.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study indicates that two in every ten postpartum women in Ethiopia are suffering from postpartum depression. Intimate partner violence and social support should be a major focus to improve women's mental health during postpartum period with the reduction of substance abuse. There is an urgent need for concerted efforts in the reduction of postpartum depression through prevention efforts of intimate partner violence and substance abuse.

Appraisal of systematic reviews on interventions for postpartum depression: systematic review

BACKGROUND

Postpartum depression (PPD) is a highly prevalent mental health problem that affects parental health with implications for child health in infancy, childhood, adolescence and beyond. The primary aim of this study was to critically appraise available systematic reviews describing interventions for PPD. The secondary aim was to evaluate the methodological quality of the included systematic reviews and their conclusions.

METHODS

An electronic database search of MEDLINE, Embase, and the Cochrane Library from 2000 to 2020 was conducted to identify systematic reviews that examined an intervention for PPD. A Measurement Tool to Assess Systematic Reviews was utilized to independently score each included systematic review which was then critically appraised to better define the most effective therapeutic options for PPD.

RESULTS

Of the 842 studies identified, 83 met the a priori criteria for inclusion. Based on the systematic reviews with the highest methodological quality, we found that use of antidepressants and telemedicine were the most effective treatments for PPD. Symptoms of PPD were also improved by traditional herbal medicine and aromatherapy. Current evidence for physical exercise and cognitive behavioural therapy in treating PPD remains equivocal. A significant, but weak relationship between AMSTAR score and journal impact factor was observed (p = 0.03, r = 0.24; 95% CI, 0.02 to 0.43) whilst no relationship was found between the number of total citations (p = 0.27, r = 0.12; 95% CI, - 0.09 to 0.34), or source of funding (p = 0.19).

CONCLUSION

Overall the systematic reviews on interventions for PPD are of low-moderate quality and are not improving over time. Antidepressants and telemedicine were the most effective therapeutic interventions for PPD treatment.

Sou mãe: e agora? Vivências do puerpério

Resumo O presente estudo é parte de uma pesquisa mais ampla sobre maternidade e cuidados na primeira infância, e tem como objetivo investigar como as mulheres vivenciam o puerpério atualmente. Para tanto, foi realizada uma pesquisa qualitativa, na qual foram entrevistadas dez mulheres das camadas médias da população carioca, atuantes profissionalmente, com idades entre 29 e 37 anos, casadas, legalmente ou não, heterossexuais primíparas e com o filho(a) entre 8 meses e 2 anos de idade. Os resultados foram analisados segundo o método de análise de conteúdo na sua vertente categorial. Para atingir os objetivos deste estudo, serão discutidas as seguintes categorias de análise: baby blues; rede de apoio; e a história não foi bem assim… Os resultados apontaram o puerpério como um período idealizado pelas mulheres, mas vivido com sofrimento e instabilidade emocional. Constatamos a importância da rede de apoio para a mãe e o bebê.

Adaptation of an exercise intervention for pregnant women to community-based delivery: a study protocol

INTRODUCTION

Despite well-established guidelines and benefits to exercise, the majority of pregnant women in the USA fail to meet recommended activity levels. Studies need to determine feasible ways to translate clinical interventions to community settings by engaging pregnant women in widely accessible locations to ensure benefits to more women. The aim of this study is to adapt and determine feasibility, acceptability and fidelity of the research clinic-based Expecting intervention (NCT02125149) with pregnant women with obesity in community settings.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

We will use the Replicating Effective Programs (REP) to guide the adaptation and implementation of the research clinic-based intervention into the community. REP provides a four-phase process for implementing evidence-based interventions including collection of feedback from community stakeholders, iterative piloting of the intervention in the community and a process for standardising the intervention across community settings. Following adaptation, the updated intervention will be piloted. The pilot study will include 60 expecting women. We will randomise half to receive the community-adapted Expecting intervention (intervention, N=30) and half to receive standard of care (control, N=30). Feasibility and Acceptability of Intervention Measures are primary outcomes as key indicators of feasibility. Secondary outcomes will include the number of intervention sessions completed, the change in the number of minutes of physical activity as measured by accelerometer, as well as change in health indicators from enrolment to time of delivery and 6 months post-delivery (ie, body mass index, blood pressure and total cholesterol).

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

This study has been approved by the Institutional Review Board (#260132). Findings will be shared with study participants and stakeholder advisors through written summaries and in-person presentations; results will also be shared through presentations at scientific conferences and publications in peer-reviewed journals.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

NCT04298125; Pre-results.

Current Resources for Evidence-Based Practice, July 2020

An extensive review of new resources to support the provision of evidence-based care for women and infants. The current column includes a discussion of whether it is ethical not to offer doula care to all women, and commentaries on reviews focused on folic acid and autism spectrum disorder, and timing of influenza vaccination during pregnancy.