Assessment of the physical activity behavior and beliefs of infertile women during assisted reproductive technology treatment

Abstract 

Objectives

To understand the physical activity beliefs of infertile women, and their physical activity behavior before and during assisted reproductive technology (ART) treatment.

Methods

Infertile women undergoing ART treatment completed a survey assessing their physical activity beliefs. In addition, the physical activity behavior of the participants was assessed via the Godin Leisure–Time Exercise Questionnaire.

Results

The participants were significantly less physically active during the treatment period, with 80.1% reporting that they believed there would be a negative effect on the outcome of their treatment if they did not limit their physical activity.

Conclusion

The present study showed that women's physical activity may decline during ART treatment because of the misconception that pursuing their pre-treatment physical activity routine would decrease their chance of conceiving.

Keywords: Assisted reproductive technology, Godin Leisure–Time Exercise Questionnaire, Infertility, Physical activity behavior, Physical activity beliefs