Physical Activity and Nutritional Status in Females With Vaginal Delivery and Cesarean Section in Razi Hospital, Qazvin

Background The effect of physical activity and nutrition on the method of childbirth has been studied; however, it cannot be assured. Objective This study aimed to explore the relationship between the type of delivery and nutrition and physical activity. Methods In a case-control study, women were entered either in cesarean section or normal vaginal delivery (each group: 52 subjects) groups. Data regarding physical activity and nutrition information during pregnancy were collected using Nutrition Questionnaire: Focused Pregnancy Nutrition Class. The scale’s reliability and validity were confirmed by the experts. Collected data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, t-test, ANOVA and logistic regression. The signifcance level was set as p<0.05. Findings Age, height, pre-pregnancy weight, gestational age, the number of previous pregnancies, and pre-pregnancy body mass index (BMI), were not different in the two groups; however, the groups differed in terms of BMI at the end of pregnancy, rate of changes in BMI, the employment status, sweets consumption before bedtime, taking medicines, the participants’ energy status compared with natural position, and reading nutrition facts label. Conclusion If the observed differences between the two groups are causative, the interventions can reduce the risk of cesarean section, such as preventing excessive weight gain during pregnancy. Otherwise, they can be used as markers or pose a possibility of childbirth type.