Pushing limits: the acute effects of a heavy-load resistance protocol and supine exercise on fetal well-being.

Objectives: To explore the acute effects of a heavy-load resistance protocol and exercise in the supine position on fetal heart rate (FHR) and uteroplacental blood flow.

Method: In this experimental laboratory study, 48 healthy pregnant athletes (elite: n=7; recreational: n=41) completed 3×8 repetitions with one repetition in reserve in sumo deadlift, bench press and incline bench press. FHR and umbilical and uterine artery pulsatility index (PI) were assessed before and after exercise.

Is fetal well-being jeopardised during high-intensity interval training?

Objectives: To explore the acute effects of high-intensity interval training on fetal heart rate (FHR) and uteroplacental blood flow.

Method: Elite (n=10) and recreational athletes (n=50) participated in an experimental laboratory study involving 5×5 min intervals of high-intensity exercise on both a treadmill and cycle ergometer, with a 4 min pause between intervals for measurement of FHR and uteroplacental blood flow. Target intensity was 17 on Borg's rating of perceived exertion (RPE) scale and 90% of estimated maximal maternal heart rate (MHR).

Exceeding the guidelines: A descriptive study of exercise, pregnancy, maternal and neonatal health outcomes in elite and recreational athletes.

Background: Exercise during pregnancy is associated with numerous health benefits. However, guidelines for elite and recreational athletes, who often exceed general recommendations regarding intensity, duration, and frequency are lacking, and potential risks remain unclear. The aim of the study was to describe exercise levels, pregnancy, and maternal and neonatal health outcomes in elite and recreational athletes.

Cool mama: Temperature regulation during high-intensity interval running in pregnant elite and recreational athletes.

Background: Regular exercise during pregnancy is beneficial, but athletes often exceed the recommended 150 min of moderate-intensity activity, incorporate high-intensity exercises. The upper limit for exercise intensity and duration on fetal and maternal safety remains uncertain. A concern is a maternal core body temperature of >39.

What is the effect of physical activity on duration and mode of delivery? Secondary analysis from the Norwegian Fit for Delivery trial.

Introduction: The beneficial effects of physical activity during pregnancy for the mother and offspring have been reported by several studies but there are conflicting results concerning the possible effect of physical activity on the course of labor and risk of cesarean delivery. This study presents secondary analyses from the Norwegian Fit for Delivery randomized controlled trial, aiming at studying the effect of a lifestyle intervention including group exercise classes, as well as the possible influence of physical activity level in late pregnancy, on labor outcomes.

Material And Methods: Healthy nulliparous women with singleton pregnancy were randomized to an intervention group, n = 303 (dietary counseling and twice-weekly exercise classes) or a control group, n = 303 (standard care).

Effect of a prenatal lifestyle intervention on physical activity level in late pregnancy and the first year postpartum.

Background: Despite documented health benefits for mother and baby, physical activity (PA)-level tends to decline in pregnancy. Overweight/obese and physically inactive women are two selected groups at increased risk of pregnancy complications. Thus, efficient strategies to maintain or increase PA-level in pregnancy and the postpartum period, especially among these women, are warranted.

Reliability and concurrent validity of the International Physical Activity Questionnaire short form among pregnant women.

Abstract: Sanda B, Vistad I, Haakstad LAH, Berntsen S, Sagedal LR, Lohne-Seiler H, Torstveit MK. Reliability and concurrent validity of the International Physical Activity Questionnaire short form among pregnant women.

Background: The International Physical Activity Questionnaire short-form (IPAQ-SF) is frequently used to assess physical activity (PA) level in the general adult population including pregnant women.

Evaluation of implementing a community-based exercise intervention during pregnancy.

Objective: to evaluate the implementation of a community-based exercise intervention (the Norwegian Fit for Delivery study) during pregnancy.

Design: descriptive, explorative.

Setting: healthcare clinics in southern Norway, including urban and rural settings.

Prevalence and risk factors for anal incontinence after obstetric anal sphincter rupture.

Objective: To study prevalence and risk factors for anal incontinence (AI) after obstetric anal sphincter rupture.

Material And Methods: This was a retrospective clinical observational study. Among 14 959 vaginal deliveries, 591 women were diagnosed with obstetric anal sphincter ruptures (3.