Date of Graduation
12-2025
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Degree Level
Undergraduate
Department
Nursing
Advisor/Mentor
Dr. Hope Ballentine
Committee Member
Dr. Vita Simpkins-Spain
Abstract
The purpose of this systematic review is to synthesize literature examining the relationship between using exercise as a preventative method for gestational diabetes development during pregnancy, and the effect it may have on lowering glycemic levels. Health Source: CINAHL and PubMed were systematically searched for peer-reviewed journal articles that studied pregnant women (P), and the relationship of consistent exercise (I), compared to no physical exercise (C), on lowering glycemic levels resulting in positive pregnancy outcomes (O), throughout gestation (T). Twenty articles were retrieved in accordance with the PICOT objectives. Additional criteria included only articles from 2019-2024 and articles that were provided in full text. Across the selected literature, it was consistently identified that increased physical activity during pregnancy is beneficial for the overall health of mothers and infants. A decreased incidence of GDM was shown in women who stayed active throughout the entire duration of pregnancy. It would be valuable to conduct more research on this topic to gather more information on the prevalence of using this intervention to prevent this pregnancy complication. Additionally, healthcare professionals hold accountability in advocating for patients’ health and providing teaching to keep patients informed.
Keywords: gestational diabetes mellitus, exercise, prevention.
Keywords
pregnancy; GDM; gestational diabetes mellitus; exercise; prevention
Citation
Reiche, A. (2025). The Effect of Exercise on the Development of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus in Pregnancy: A Systematic Review of Literature. The Eleanor Mann School of Nursing Undergraduate Honors Theses Retrieved from https://scholarworks.uark.edu/nursuht/228
