Physical Exertion and Placental Abruption: Public Health implications and Future Directionss

Abstract

Chahal et al (Am J Epidemiol. XXXX;XXX(XX):XXXX–XXXX)) assessed the risk of placental abruption due to physical exertion using a case-crossover design. The authors found an increased risk of placental abruption following increased physical exertion in the hour prior to the abruption. The risk was greater among women who were primarily sedentary during pregnancy or prior to being pregnant compared to those who were more physically active. The authors utilize a case-crossover design to assess the association of an intermittent exposure on an acute event. Chahal et al address the limitations of the study including the inability to control for time-varying confounders as well as the potential for recall bias. The public health implications of the study must be carefully evaluated given that physical activity during and prior to pregnancy can lead to healthy outcomes and are likely recommended. While the current study is unable to determine the type of physical exertion associated with placental abruption, future studies are recommended to determine the type of activity that presents increased risk. Additionally, studies among larger samples and in other countries will help determine the generalizability of the results.