Open Access. Powered by Scholars. Published by Universities.®

Public Health Commons

Open Access. Powered by Scholars. Published by Universities.®

Articles 1 - 2 of 2

Full-Text Articles in Public Health

Stress And Depression During Pregnancy Among Hispanic Women: Risk For Adverse Birth Outcomes And The Role Of Physical Activity, Kathleen Szegda Nov 2014

Stress And Depression During Pregnancy Among Hispanic Women: Risk For Adverse Birth Outcomes And The Role Of Physical Activity, Kathleen Szegda

Doctoral Dissertations

Preterm birth and low birth weight are among the leading causes of infant mortality and morbidity in the United States. Puerto Rican women are at increased risk for these adverse birth outcomes and elevated levels of depression and psychosocial stress during pregnancy when compared to non-Hispanic Whites. Therefore, it is important to understand whether these psychological factors increase risk for these adverse birth outcomes and mechanisms to prevent/reduce depression in this high-risk population. The first study of this dissertation examined associations between perceived stress during pregnancy and preterm birth, low birth weight, and birth of a small-for-gestational age infant (SGA) …


Move More Mommy: A Web-Based Physical Activity Intervention For Postnatal Women (Pilot Study), Sarah Gray Sep 2014

Move More Mommy: A Web-Based Physical Activity Intervention For Postnatal Women (Pilot Study), Sarah Gray

Electronic Thesis and Dissertation Repository

Despite the many benefits of physical activity, postnatal women are not currently meeting Health Canada Guidelines of 150 minutes per week of moderate-vigorous physical activity. This study, Move More Mommy, used a mixed methods design to test the feasibility and acceptability of a web-based intervention combined with a group mediated cognitive behavioural approach, and it’s effectiveness to increase physical activity, self-efficacy, and group cohesion among postnatal women. Participants received an 8-week intervention delivered through 8 group exercise classes and a purpose built website. From baseline to post-intervention, participants significantly increased self-reported physical activity levels and group cohesion. Objectively measured physical …