Funding outcome

Physical activity (PA) during pregnancy (i.e., prenatal PA) has been associated with significant health benefits, including reduced risk of gestational hypertension, caesarean delivery, and depression. However, no studies examining prenatal PA have involved women with a disability, resulting in a lack of information to support PA among pregnant women with a disability. Poor health may lead to long term consequences for pregnant women that reduce quality of life and increase burden on the healthcare system. Research is needed that investigates prenatal PA among women with a disability, as they are at an increased risk for poor outcomes. The proposed research will use quantitative and qualitative methods to describe and understand prenatal PA behaviours and health outcomes among pregnant women with a disability. A survey will be used to examine the influence of prenatal PA on the health of pregnant women with and without a disability. The survey will collect data on demographic factors, PA (e.g., duration, intensity), and health outcomes (e.g., depression, mode of delivery). Following the survey, a qualitative study will be conducted using interviews. This study will provide a deeper understanding of participants' knowledge, attitudes, and experiences with prenatal PA. Understanding experiences with PA will assist in developing preventative health interventions that integrate prenatal PA to support maternal health among diverse women. The proposed studies will contribute knowledge regarding the impact of PA among pregnant women with a disability, as well as how PA could be encouraged and supported over the prenatal period to maximize the health of pregnant people.