Depok-Inactivity or lack of movement is an independent risk factor for obesity in pregnant women and pregnancy complications such as gestational diabetes mellitus, hypertension, cardiovascular disease, metabolic syndrome, and depression during pregnancy. To prevent complications in pregnancy, it is important for pregnant women to always be active and exercise.
(Photo: Faizah explains the importance of health for mothers on Panggang Island)
The importance of maintaining the quality of life of pregnant women through physical activity inspired Faizah Abdullah, S.St.Ft., S.Ft., M.Biomed., and a team of devotees from the Physiotherapy study program, Vocational Education Program, Universitas Indonesia (UI), to carry out activities community service to educate pregnant women and health cadres on Panggang Island, Thousand Islands.
According to Faizah, physical activity is believed to have great benefits for women with uncomplicated or minimal risk pregnancies. “Physical exercise that is carried out regularly can reduce the risk of premature birth and is recommended during pregnancy if done with the right dosage,” said Faizah.
(Photo: Health education for Panggang Island residents)
At the community service activity which was attended by pregnant women and Dasawisma cadres on Panggang Island, Thousand Islands, the service team had the opportunity to provide counseling regarding the benefits of physical activity during pregnancy as well as training on how to determine the right dose of exercise. Faizah explained, “The dose of exercise consists of the components of frequency, intensity, type and duration of exercise. The recommended exercise program is moderate-intensity aerobic exercise for at least 30-60 minutes 3 to 5 days a week.”
The series of activities that were carried out in August 2022 were followed by a physical examination which included examination of vital signs and posture analysis to identify complaints in pregnant women and continued with physiotherapy consultations for pregnant women. The consultation was delivered directly by the service team consisting of lecturers and students of the UI Vocational Physiotherapy study program.
(Photo: Providing free physical consultations to Panggang Island residents)
One of the participants, Umriyah (27), who is also a Dasawisma cadre, said that this counseling activity was very useful and motivated pregnant women to be more active in their activities. She hopes that similar activities can continue to be carried out and can provide positive benefits to the community, especially pregnant women.
