Development of a Postpartum Physical Activity Intervention after a Hypertensive Disorder of Pregnancy: The Barrier Analysis

Objectives: Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy affect ˜16% of all pregnancies and is associated with a 2‐4‐fold greater risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD). Although physical activity (PA) is a known modifiable risk factor for CVD, understanding of influences on postpartum PA after a hypertensive disorder of pregnancy is limited. We assessed PA determinants and desired intervention features of postpartum individuals after a hypertensive disorders of pregnancy. Methods: Individuals diagnosed with a hypertensive disorder of pregnancy participated in a cross-sectional online survey assessing CVD risk, PA, behavioral determinants, and desired intervention components. Independent t-tests or Fisher’s exact tests were conducted to evaluate differences by activity level. Results: Respondents (N=72) were 30.9 years on average, white (84.7%), and had at least a bachelor’s degree (69.5%). Those who were currently active reported greater CVD knowledge than inactive individuals (19.8 vs 17.4 of 26 total points) and less difficulty being active everyday given current resources (2.10 ± 0.94 vs 1.69 ± 0.93). All respondents indicated interest in a PA intervention, with the most desirable intervention attributes including use of a PA monitoring device, online PA videos, and involved partners. Conclusions: Interventions promoting increased postpartum PA after diagnosis of a hypertensive disorders of pregnancy should consider the unique behavioral determinants affecting PA patterns, especially across current activity levels.