Physical inactivity or lack of movement is an independent risk factor for obesity in pregnant women and complications of pregnancy such as gestational diabetes mellitus (commonly called diabetes in pregnancy), hypertension, cardiovascular disease, metabolic syndrome, and depression during pregnancy. To prevent complications in pregnancy, it is important for pregnant women to always be active and exercise.
The importance of maintaining the quality of life of pregnant women through physical activity inspired Faizah Abdullah, S.St.Ft., S.Ft., M.Biomed., and a community service team from Physiotherapy Study Program, Vocational Education Program, Universitas Indonesia (UI), to carry out activities community service to educate pregnant women and health cadres on Panggang Island, Kepulauan Seribu.
According to Faizah, physical activity is believed to have great benefits for women with uncomplicated or minimal-risk pregnancies. “Physical exercise that is carried out routinely can reduce the risk of premature birth and is recommended during pregnancy if done with the right amount,” said Faizah.
At the community service activity which was attended by pregnant women and Dasawisma cadres on Panggang Island, Kepulauan Seribu, the UI team had the opportunity to provide outreach regarding the benefits of physical activity during pregnancy as well as training on how to determine the right amount of exercise. Faizah explained, “The amount of exercise consists of the components of frequency, intensity, type, and duration of exercise. The recommended exercise program is moderate-intensity aerobic exercise for at least 30-60 minutes with the frequency of 3 to 5 days a week.”
The series of activities that were carried out in August 2022 was followed by a physical examination which included examination of vital signs and posture analysis to identify complaints in pregnant women and continued with physiotherapy consultations for pregnant women. The outreach was delivered directly by the UI team consisting of Physiotherapy lecturers and students from Vocational UI.
One of the participants, Umriyah (27 years), who is also a Dasawisma cadre, said that this outreach activity was very useful and motivated pregnant women to be more active in their activities. She hopes that similar activities can be carried out continuously and provide positive benefits to the community, especially pregnant women.
