International Delphi study of clinical and exercise professionals’ opinion of physical activity prescreening and contraindications for participating in postpartum physical activity

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: To establish expert consensus on prescreening and contraindications to moderate-to-vigorous intensity physical activity (MVPA) during the first year postpartum. METHODS: A Delphi survey of clinical and exercise professionals working with postpartum women and people was conducted until consensus was reached (≥75% agreement). Round I consisted of questions about relative and absolute contraindications to MVPA. Rounds II and III included additional questions based on the thematic coding of open-ended responses from the previous rounds. The results were used to develop a postpartum MVPA preparticipation screening tool. RESULTS: 120 participants completed round I, 105 completed round II and 95 completed round III. Consensus was reached in 46/49 (94%) statements. Twenty-four relative contraindications to MVPA were identified: (loss of consciousness; neurological symptoms; kidney disease; calf pain or swelling suggestive of deep vein thrombosis; severe abdominal pain; vaginal bleeding not associated with menses; postpartum cardiomyopathy; caesarean section with symptoms that worsen with MVPA; unstable hypertension; eating disorder; malnutrition; anaemia; excessive fatigue; fractures or other significant musculoskeletal injuries; haemodynamic instability; breathing difficulties; acute systemic infection accompanied by fever, body aches, or swollen lymph glands; the new onset of chest pain, discomfort, and other angina-like symptoms with exertion; dizziness or lightheadedness during MVPA; new symptoms of heart disease, stroke; and other medical or physical conditions that may affect the ability to be physically active. Key biopsychosocial barriers to MVPA were identified. CONCLUSION: This Delphi study recommends relative contraindications to MVPA for the first year postpartum that were incorporated into a postpartum MVPA pre-participation screening tool the Get Active Questionnaire for Postpartum.