The Power of Yoga: Investigating the Feasibility and Preliminary Effects of Yoga on Excessive Gestational Weight Gain
The Power of Yoga: Investigating the Feasibility and Preliminary Effects of Yoga on Excessive Gestational Weight Gain
This study will test the feasibility (i.e., acceptability, demand) of a 12-week prenatal yoga intervention on excessive gestational weight gain (GWG) in pregnant women in the second trimester (enrolled at 12-24 weeks). Participants will be randomized into the prenatal yoga intervention or a pregnancy education (e.g., information on preparing for motherhood, labor and delivery etc.) control group. Participants in both groups will be asked to attend one 75 minute class per week.
The investigators hypothesize that prenatal yoga intervention will be feasible for pregnant women.
The study aims are as follows:
Primary Aim: Determine the feasibility (i.e., acceptability, demand) of a 12-week prenatal yoga intervention in pregnant women. In a randomized controlled pilot study comparing prenatal yoga to a pregnancy education control condition, the investigators will assess 1) acceptability (defined as satisfaction, intent to continue use, perceived appropriateness) and 2) demand (defined as attendance/adherence).
Exploratory Aim 1: Ascertain the preliminary effects of prenatal yoga on excessive GWG [i.e., weight gain exceeding Institute of Medicine (IOM) recommendations]. The investigators will compare weight change between intervention and control groups.
Exploratory Aim 2: Explore the potential mediators (i.e., mindfulness, self-regulation) on the effect of prenatal yoga on excessive GWG.
Inclusion Criteria:
Exclusion Criteria: