The effect of physical activity on cardiometabolic parameters in women with a history of hypertension during pregnancy

Abstract

Background. The effect of physical activity (PA) on the state of the cardiovascular system and quality of life in patients with hypertension (HTN) remains insufficiently studied, while there is no data on the effect of PA and rehabilitation programs on cardiometabolic parameters, according to duration and recurrence of their effect in women with a history of HTN during pregnancy. Objective. To compare cardiometabolic parameters in women with a history of HTN during pregnancy versus women without HTN during pregnancy and measure the effects of an exercise program on their dynamics changes. Design and methods. The study included 66 women divided into two groups: group 1 — 33 women with a history of HTN during pregnancy. The distribution of different HTN disorders of pregnancy was the following: 75% — gestational HTN; 12,5% — chronic HTN; 12,5% — preeclampsia. Group 2 — 33 women with a history of normotension during pregnancy. Walking for at least 150 min per week (30 min a day, 5 times a week) for 9 months was a mandatory component of the physical training program in group 2. Women in group 2 continued clinical follow-up without physical training program. All participants filled in a specially designed questionnaire. Anthropometric, clinical, and biochemical parameters were evaluated, including PA level, quality of life (short questionnaire SF‑36), and serum leptin and adiponectin concentrations. Results. A PA training program for 9 months in women with a history of HTN during pregnancy led to a decrease in waist circumference and body mass index, a decrease in serum leptin levels and an increase in serum adiponectin levels, an increase in PA levels and an improvement in quality of life for account of the general physical and spiritual components.