Pregnant women's perceptions of physical activity: Adaptation of the pregnancy physical activity questionnaire in Dubai, a multicultural society.

Abstract

Background: There are major health benefits of physical activity (PA) during pregnancy, yet there is scant data about a woman’s knowledge and understanding of these benefits globally.Design and Methods: We aimed to evaluate the knowledge, attitude, and practice of pregnant women in the United Arab Emirates concerning exercise. We wanted to investigate why some women exercise while others do not exercise during pregnancy. We used a cross-sectional study using a paper-based questionnaire involving pregnant women at antenatal clinics in the Dubai health Authority. The Modified form of Pregnancy Physical Activity Questionnaire (PPAQ) was adapted in both Arabic and English and used in this study.Results: Women aging 25-35 that had a higher educational level, were employed, having 1 or 2 previous pregnancies, and having better knowledge on the benefits of Physical Activity (PA) during pregnancy had better exercise profiles.Conclusions: Our results demonstrate that the majority of the women that participated in our study were shown to have low PA during pregnancy. Better education and communication of the benefits of PA during pregnancy are needed to improve exercise among pregnant women in the UAE population. We found that improved education of women specific to PA with involvement of a healthcare provider were associated with an increase in PA during pregnancy. Significance for public health Our findings show a tremendous need for educating women on Physical Activity (PA) during pregnancy in primary health care and maternity clinics. These efforts have to be part of an organizational strategic plan. We recommend more campaigns on the benefits of PA for pregnant women. More efforts are needed to assess the barriers that could be solved and corrected within our health care for pregnant women. Promoting a cost-effective intervention in our antenatal care clinics could decrease maternal-fetal complications that are associated with a sedentary lifestyle.