The Influence of Exercise Characteristics Before and During Pregnancy on Gestational Diabetes Mellitus

Abstract

<strong>Background:</strong> Although exercise is recommended for preventing gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), the situation has remained unclear regarding the characteristics and timing of the proper exercise. <strong>Objectives:</strong> The aim of the present study was to compare exercise characteristics including volume, frequency, intensity and energy expenditure before and during pregnancy in diabetic and non-diabetic pregnant women. <strong>Patients and Methods:</strong> Participants of the study included 137 pregnant women (80 diabetics and 57 non-diabetics) who were selected based on the inclusion criteria. Exercise activities of the participants were evaluated by interviews. Statistical tests of Mann-Whitney and Chi-square were used for data analysis. <strong>Results:</strong> Participating in regular exercise activities was significantly higher in the non-diabetics compared to the diabetics during all stages including 8 and 1 years before pregnancy and during the 1st and 2nd trimesters of pregnancy (P < 0.05). However among the diabetics and non-diabetics who regularly exercised, there was no significant difference in terms of exercise characteristics (frequency, intensity, duration and energy cost). <strong>Conclusions:</strong> Regular participation in exercise activities before and during pregnancy especially during the second trimester is important for preventing GDM. However, in few cases, similar exercise characteristics were found among diabetics and non-diabetics.