Physical Activity and Sleep Quality in Pregnant Women: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Background: Sleep disturbances are common during pregnancy due to physiological, psychological, and hormonal changes. Poor sleep quality may adversely affect maternal health and fetal development, increasing the risk of preterm birth, low birth weight, and delivery complications. Physical activity has been suggested as a modifiable factor that may influence sleep quality during pregnancy.
Objective: To determine the association between physical activity and sleep quality among pregnant women.
Methods: This quantitative cross-sectional study involved 100 pregnant women attending Posyandu in the Kartasura area. Physical activity was assessed using the Pregnancy Physical Activity Questionnaire (PPAQ), while sleep quality was evaluated using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI). Bivariate analysis was performed to examine the association between physical activity and sleep quality.
Results: A significant association was found between physical activity and sleep quality among pregnant women (p < 0.001). Moderate physical activity was more frequently associated with good sleep quality, with 26% of participants reporting favorable sleep outcomes. In contrast, poor sleep quality was predominantly observed among women engaging in high levels of physical activity, accounting for 59% of cases. These findings suggest that the intensity of physical activity may influence sleep quality during pregnancy.
Conclusion: Physical activity is significantly associated with sleep quality in pregnant women. Moderate physical activity is linked to better sleep quality, whereas high levels of physical activity may contribute to poorer sleep outcomes. Appropriate monitoring and adjustment of physical activity intensity during pregnancy are recommended to support optimal maternal sleep health.