Simple stretching may lower blood pressure in pregnancy
NCT ID NCT04291560
First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time
Summary
This study looked at whether a regular stretching routine could improve heart health in pregnant women with obesity. 224 women were assigned to either a stretching program or usual care (moderate exercise). The researchers measured blood pressure and other heart-related markers from week 27 to week 37 of pregnancy. The goal was to see if stretching could be a safe and effective way to reduce cardiovascular risks during pregnancy.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
- Active substance
- stretching exercise program
- What this could lead to
- If it works, this could offer a simple, safe way for pregnant women with obesity to improve their heart health and reduce risks like preeclampsia.
- What could go wrong
- This is a completed trial, but the results are not yet widely confirmed. The benefits may be small or not apply to all women. Stretching is generally safe, but any new exercise routine during pregnancy should be discussed with a doctor.
This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.
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Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
Locations
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The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Chapel Hill, North Carolina, 27599, United States
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