Z Geburtshilfe Neonatol 2005; 209 - FV_6_7
DOI: 10.1055/s-2005-923089

Influence of Physical Stress on the Fetal and Maternal Hemodynamics and the Cervical Structure in Singleton and Twin Pregnancies

C Roos 1, GC van Enst 2, B Arabin 1
  • 1Department of Obstetrics Isala Klinieken (Sophia), Clara Angela Foundation
  • 2Department of Sport Medicine Isala Klinieken (Sophia), Zwolle-NL

Objective: Aim of the study was to examine the impact of various physical activity on fetal and maternal hemodynamics and the cervical structure.

Methods: 12 women (6 singleton and 6 twin pregnancies) agreed to participate. Examinations were performed longitudinally at intervals of 4–5 weeks. Before and after each exercise (standing, jogging and cycling)we analysed:1)Maternal: pulse, blood pressure (RR), contractions, cervical length (CL), funneling width (FW), difference of CL in both positions, lactate, O2 and CO2, pulsatility index (PI) of the uterine artery.2)Fetal: FHR, PI of umbilical artery and middle cerebral artery (MCA). Data were analysed by SPSS 12.0.

Results: Maternal pulse and RR increased after exercise. There was no change of the PI of the uterine artery. CL decreased significantly after each exercise but restored at the next examination. However, the difference between CL in the recumbent and the standing position did not increase after any type of exercise. FHF increased significantly, the PI of the umbilical artery showed no systematic change, the PI of the MCA decreased after biking and jogging.

Conclusions: This study may answer questions of pregnant women about their lifestyle during pregnancy and about the safety of exercise for both maternal and fetal health.