Changes in Physical Activity and Breast-Related Factors During and After Pregnancy

Several barriers likely contribute to the physical activity (PA) changes that occur during pregnancy and the postpartum period, but the contribution of bra size, breast pain during PA, sports bras, and breastfeeding is currently unknown. This study aimed to (a) investigate how PA, self-reported bra size and breast pain during PA change during and after pregnancy and (b) investigate the influence of sports bras and breastfeeding on PA in women who classed themselves as physically active prepregnancy. Three-hundred and twenty-three women who were pregnant ( n = 97), had given birth within the last 12 months ( n = 192), or were breastfeeding ( n = 34) at the time of data collection completed an online questionnaire, and 13 of these women participated in focus groups. Fourteen percent less pregnant questionnaire participants and 10% less postpartum questionnaire participants were not physically active whilst pregnant compared to prepregnancy. In the postpartum period, 85% of participants were physically active. Forty-five percent of postpartum participants reduced their PA impact level compared with prepregnancy. Self-reported UK bra size increased, on average, by one underband and two cup sizes from before, to during, and after pregnancy. The incidence of breast pain during PA was highest for pregnant participants and those who had or were breastfeeding. Focus groups showed that the lack of suitable sports bras and/or breastfeeding led to a decline in, or change to, the type of PA. These findings highlight the need for maternity/nursing sports bras that adapt to the female body, provide support, minimize breast pain during PA, and help to reduce the logistical challenges of breastfeeding and PA.