Exercise during pregnancy to reduce postpartum depression

Exercise in Pregnancy and Risk of Postpartum Depression

Not applicable Interventional Federico II University · NCT06355375

This study is testing if regular exercise during pregnancy can help prevent postpartum depression in women who are having low-risk pregnancies.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment398 (estimated)
Ages20 Years to 40 Years
SexFemale
SponsorFederico II University Academic / other
Locations1 site (Naples)
Trial IDNCT06355375 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates the effects of exercise on postpartum depression (PPD) among women during pregnancy. It aims to determine whether engaging in moderate-intensity physical activity can serve as a preventive or therapeutic measure for PPD, which affects a significant percentage of new mothers. Participants will be encouraged to exercise for 30 minutes almost every day, following guidelines from the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology. The study will focus on women with low-risk singleton pregnancies aged 20 to 40, assessing the psychological and physical health benefits of exercise.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are women aged 20 to 40 with low-risk singleton pregnancies.

Not a fit: Patients with high-risk pregnancies, multiple gestations, or a history of postpartum depression may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could provide a non-pharmacological option for reducing the incidence of postpartum depression in new mothers.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promising results regarding the benefits of exercise in managing depression, suggesting that this approach may be effective.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* singleton gestation
* low risk pregnancy
* age between 20 and 40

Exclusion Criteria:

* high risk pregnancy
* multiple gestation
* prior post partum depression
* any psychiatric disase
* controindication for exercise
* lung or heart disease
* prior preterm birth
* IVF pregnancy
* women who already perform agonistic sport activity

Where this trial is running

Naples

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions DepressionPregnancy Related
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.