Do the body mass index and the diagnosis of gestational diabetes mellitus influence the level of physical activity during pregnancy and postpartum?

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In the present study, neither BMI nor a diagnosis of GDM interfered with the PA level of pregnant women. On the other hand, the time factor, specifically the postpartum period, determined higher PA levels when compared to preconception and pregnancy in both women with low-risk pregnancy and women with a diagnosis of GDM. Despite the statistical difference, there was no clinical relevance in the MET’s difference because the patients still remained on the sedentary physical activity level according to PPAQ. In view of the growing sedentary PA level in the population studied, the importance of exercise for the prevention and treatment of GDM and the severe complications of hyperglycemia, the development of public health policies providing safer instructions and exercise programs for pregnant women should be reinforced.

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