Influential factors in physical activity amongst pregnant women

Background: Correct and adequate physical activity during pregnancy has a significant effect on mother's health and fetal development. The aim of this study was to determine factors affecting physical activity in pregnant women. Material and methods: The present study is an analytical descriptive study which was performed on 325 pregnant women. To collect data, a researcher-made questionnaire was used. Its design was based on the structures of the BASNEF model and the pregnancy physical activity questionnaire. Results: Most of the pregnant mothers were inactive or lightly active, and only 6.13% of them had moderate activity and more than average. The components of the BASNEF model did not have any relation with the amount of the mothers' physical activity but the knowledge of pregnant women about physical activity in pregnancy has a significant relationship with the level of physical activity. Also there was a significant correlation between the mother's level of education, her employment status, gravid, and history of abortion and the level of physical activity. Conclusions: Most of the pregnant mothers were inactive or lightly active. Only the knowledge of pregnant women about physical activity in pregnancy has a significant relationship with the level of physical activity.