Key result
Device-measured activity and sedentary time show no link to first-trimester aortic stiffness or blood pressure variability.
Why the study?
Pregnancy involves profound circulatory and autonomic adaptations, but the impact of physical activity and sedentary behavior on vascular and autonomic function remains unclear.
Are physical activity and sedentary time associated with aortic stiffness and autonomic function in early pregnancy?
Cross-Sectional (n=92)
No
Are physical activity and sedentary time associated with aortic stiffness and autonomic function in early pregnancy?
Device-measured physical activity and sedentary time do not appear to influence aortic stiffness or autonomic function during the first trimester of pregnancy.
No association in early pregnancy; leaves open later-gestation effects or outcome links.
Pregnancy is characterized by profound maternal circulatory and autonomic adaptations, but the impact of modifiable factors, such as physical activity and sedentary behavior on vascular and autonomic function during pregnancy, is unclear. We demonstrate that device-measured physical activity and sedentary time are not associated with aortic stiffness, baroreflex sensitivity, and blood pressure variability during the first trimester. The beneficial effect of physical activity on aortic stiffness may become more pronounced with advancing gestational age.
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Nuckols et al. (2025) conducted a cross-sectional in Pregnancy (n=92). Physical activity and sedentary time was evaluated on Aortic stiffness (cfPWV), blood pressure variability (BPV), and baroreflex sensitivity (BRS). Device-measured physical activity and sedentary time were not associated with aortic stiffness, baroreflex sensitivity, or blood pressure variability during the first trimester of pregnancy.
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