Balancing Sitting and Movement May Reduce Risk of Hypertensive Disorders in Pregnancy: Study
Preliminary research presented at the American Heart Association EPI|Lifestyle Scientific Sessions 2026 suggests that balancing daily movement and limiting sedentary time during pregnancy may significantly reduce the risk of Hypertensive Disorders of Pregnancy. The findings highlight the importance of overall daily activity patterns rather than just structured exercise.
The study, led by Kara Whitaker from the University of Iowa, analyzed 470 pregnant women from early pregnancy through postpartum. Researchers found that nearly 18.6% developed hypertensive disorders, a major cause of maternal and fetal complications.
Results showed that women who limited sedentary time to under eight hours daily and engaged in at least seven hours of light physical activity—such as walking or standing—had nearly a 30% lower risk of developing high blood pressure–related conditions.
The lowest-risk group followed a daily pattern of approximately six hours of sitting, eight hours of light activity, minimal intense exercise, and adequate rest. This group had an 8% risk compared to 16.9% in those with typical routines.
Importantly, excessive sitting—more than 10 hours per day—or low activity levels increased the risk significantly. These findings suggest that light, consistent movement throughout the day may be more impactful than short bursts of intense exercise alone.
Experts note that high blood pressure during pregnancy is linked to future cardiovascular disease, reinforcing the need for preventive strategies. The study aligns with American Heart Association recommendations encouraging regular movement, healthy diet, and blood pressure monitoring.
Although further research is needed, the findings provide practical, achievable guidance to support healthier pregnancies and long-term heart health.
REFERENCE: More activity and less sitting may reduce risk of hypertensive disorders in pregnancy; American Heart Association’s EPI|Lifestyle Scientific Sessions 2026; American Heart Association; https://newsroom.heart.org/news/more-activity-and-less-sitting-may-reduce-risk-of-hypertensive-disorders-in-pregnancy
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