INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL FOR INNOVATIVE RESEARCH IN MULTIDISCIPLINARY FIELD

ABSTRACT

Background

Physical activity during pregnancy is essential for maintaining maternal health and reducing pregnancy-related complications. However, many pregnant women do not engage in adequate physical activity despite existing recommendations. Aim: To assess the knowledge and practice regarding physical activity during pregnancy among pregnant women attending selected hospitals in Mangaluru. Methods:  A descriptive research design was adopted. A total of 80 pregnant women were selected using purposive sampling technique. Data were collected using a demographic proforma, structured knowledge questionnaire, and practice questionnaire. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used for data analysis. Results:  The majority of pregnant women (75%) had moderate knowledge regarding physical activity during pregnancy, while 13.8% had adequate knowledge and 11.3% had inadequate knowledge. Regarding practice, 52.5% demonstrated moderate practice, 46.3% had good practice, and only 1.3% had poor practice. No significant association was found between knowledge and practice scores and selected demographic variables. Conclusion:  The study revealed that most pregnant women had moderate knowledge and practice regarding physical activity during pregnancy. Promoting awareness and encouraging regular physical activity during antenatal care may improve maternal health and reduce pregnancy-related complications.