Date Presented

Spring 5-18-2025

Document Type

Thesis

First Advisor

Dr. Jeffrey Herrick

Second Advisor

Dr. Virginia Cylke

Third Advisor

Dr. Price Blair

Abstract

Introduction: Postpartum depression (PPD) significantly impacts maternal well-being and infant care, necessitating effective and accessible interventions. This study examines the role of physical activity as a potential therapeutic modality for PPD, focusing on whether OB-GYNs in the Lynchburg, VA area provide exercise recommendations to pregnant and postpartum patients, and how these recommendations relate to postpartum activity levels and mood. We hypothesize that OB-GYN recommendations on exercise will lead to a positive correlation between regular physical activity and reduced PPD symptoms, supporting the integration of exercise into standard postpartum care protocols. Methods: Data was collected through an anonymous Google-Form administered to postpartum women within 1 year of birth and treated within the Lynchburg area OB-GYN physician network. The survey gathered demographic data, self-reported physical activity, whether OB-GYNs instructed mothers to engage in physical activity, if OB-GYNs provided recommendations or guidance on how to exercise, and the stress levels using the Perceived Stress Scale - 10. Results: Fourteen participants (average age 28.4 +/- 4.7 years) completed the survey. The majority were White/Caucasian (78.6%) and lived in Lynchburg City (57.1%). Half reported receiving exercise instruction from their OB-GYN. Of these, 42.9% received recommendations, and 42.9% received specific guidance. However, only 21.4% reported meeting the 150 minutes/week of physical activity guidelines. There was a positive significant relationship between women who engaged in 150 minutes of physical activity per week and OB-GYNs who provided guidance on how to exercise based on a p-value of < 0.001. There was a positive significant relationship between women who engaged in 150 minutes of physical activity per week and PSS-10 negative items based on a p-value of 0.002. There was a positive significant relationship between women who engaged in 150 minutes of physical activity per week and PSS-10 positive items based on a p-value of < 0.001. Discussion: Results show that when OB-GYNs provided guidance on how to exercise, the women were more likely to exercise in comparison to just telling them to exercise or providing recommendations on how to exercise. Results also showed that women who exercised more had lower stress scores than women who did not engage in 150 minutes of exercise per week.

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