OBSTETRICAL OUTCOMES OF PHYSICAL ACTIVITY DURING THIRD TRIMESTER OF PREGNANCY AT NORTHWEST GENERAL HOSPITAL, PESHAWAR

Abstract

Background: Physical activity (PA) during pregnancy is associated with improved maternal metabolic health, reduced gestational complications, and favorable neonatal outcomes. Regardless of global recommendations for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity per week, adherence declines, particularly in the third trimester. Objective: To evaluate physical activity patterns during the third trimester of pregnancy and assess their association with feto-maternal outcomes at Northwest General Hospital, Peshawar. Methodology: This prospective cohort study was conducted from October 2025 to January 2026, enrolling 172 pregnant women aged 18–45 years with singleton viable pregnancies in the third trimester. PA was assessed using the validated Pregnancy PA Questionnaire (PPAQ), and energy expenditure was calculated in MET-h/week. Participants were followed until delivery, and obstetrical outcomes were recorded. Data were analyzed using SPSS 27; p ≤ 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Median total PA was 170.4 MET-h/week, with household/caregiving tasks contributing most (51.6%) and sports/exercise minimal (4.1%). Low PA (≤150 MET-h/week) was observed in 58.1% of women. Low activity was significantly associated with higher cesarean section (45.0% vs. 28.1%, p=0.02), preterm birth (14.0% vs. 4.2%, p=0.04), and low birth weight (18.0% vs. 4.2%, p=0.01). Moderate/high activity was associated with shorter median labor duration (420 vs. 510 minutes, p=0.03). Conclusion: Moderate PA during the third trimester is associated with improved obstetrical outcomes. Counseling pregnant women to engage in safe, regular activity may reduce cesarean rates, preterm birth, and low birth weight.