Resting Hemodynamics and Response to Exercise Using the 6-Minute Walk Test in Late Pregnancy: An International Prospective Multicentre Study

Abstract

The 6MWT is feasible and applicable in term pregnant women. The reference intervals for resting HR and distance walked in the 6MWT have been generated. HR increases by approximately 12 bpm with submaximal exercise, and half of the women recovered within 5 minutes of submaximal exercise. Women expected to be more exerted and breathless than they actually were with exercise.