The Effect of the More Active MuMs in Stirling Trial on Body Composition and Psychological Well-Being among Postnatal Women

Abstract EN

Introduction.

Physical activity is important for health and well-being; however, rates of postnatal physical activity can be low.

This paper reports the secondary outcomes of a trial aimed at increasing physical activity among postnatal women.

Methods.

More Active MuMs in Stirling (MAMMiS) was a randomised controlled trial testing the effect of physical activity consultation and pram walking group intervention among inactive postnatal women.

Data were collected on postnatal weight, body composition, general well-being, and fatigue.

Participants were also interviewed regarding motivations and perceived benefits of participating in the trial.

Results.

There was no significant effect of the intervention on any weight/body composition outcome or on general well-being at three or six months of follow-up.

There was a significant but inconsistent difference in fatigue between groups.

Qualitative data highlighted a number of perceived benefits to weight, body composition, and particularly well-being (including improved fatigue) which were not borne out by objective data.

Discussion.

The MAMMiS study found no impact of the physical activity intervention on body composition and psychological well-being and indicates that further research is required to identify successful approaches to increase physical activity and improve health and well-being among postnatal women.