Effects of physical exercise during pregnancy on labor: A systematic literature review

Abstract

Pregnancy involves physiological adaptations that support fetal growth and development but is often accompanied by back pain, fatigue, and reduced physical fitness. Regular physical exercise during pregnancy has been associated with improved maternal fitness, enhanced preparedness for childbirth, and favourable labor outcomes. This systematic literature review aimed to evaluate the effects of physical exercise during pregnancy on labor outcomes and contribute evidence supporting Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 3: Good Health and Well-being. A comprehensive search of PubMed and ScienceDirect identified 22 potentially eligible studies. Following full-text assessment based on predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria, 10 studies were included. The review synthesized evidence from randomized controlled trials, randomized clinical trials, cohort studies, clinical trials, and experimental studies. Methodological quality was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute ( JBI) Critical Appraisal Checklist. The findings suggest that physical exercise during pregnancy may reduce labor pain intensity and shorten labor duration. Lower rates of oxytocin induction and caesarean section were also reported, although these differences were not consistently statistically significant. Overall, physical exercise during pregnancy appears to offer potential benefits for labor outcomes; however, the heterogeneity of study designs, interventions, and outcome measures warrants cautious interpretation and further high-quality research.