Abstract

Maternal health during pregnancy is of paramount importance, with excessive weight gain presenting a notable risk factor for adverse outcomes. This study investigates the relationship between the walkability of residential neighborhoods and the risk of excessive weight gain during pregnancy. Utilizing a cohort study design, we examined a diverse population of pregnant individuals, assessing the walkability of their residential environments through validated indices.

Our findings reveal a significant inverse association between neighborhood walkability and the likelihood of excessive weight gain during pregnancy. Women residing in more walkable neighborhoods demonstrated a reduced risk of surpassing recommended weight gain guidelines, as compared to those in less walkable areas. This association persisted even after adjusting for confounding factors such as socio-economic status and pre-pregnancy body mass index. The study highlights the potential impact of the built environment on maternal health outcomes, emphasizing the importance of urban planning and community design in promoting healthier pregnancies. These findings contribute to the growing body of evidence supporting the role of neighborhood walkability as a modifiable factor in mitigating excessive weight gain during pregnancy, ultimately promoting positive maternal and infant health outcomes.