Reducing sitting time may lower pregnancy hypertension risk by 30%: study
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Limiting sedentary time and increasing light daily activity can significantly reduce the risk of high blood pressure-related complications during pregnancy.
A new study presented at the American Heart Association EPI|Lifestyle Scientific Sessions 2026 found that pregnant women who reduced prolonged sitting and incorporated more light movement, such as walking or household tasks, lowered their risk of developing hypertensive disorders by nearly 30 percent.
These conditions include Gestational Hypertension and Preeclampsia.
Led by Kara Whitaker of the University of Iowa, the study tracked 470 pregnant women aged 18 to 45 from their first trimester through six weeks after delivery. Participants wore activity monitors to record time spent sitting, moving, exercising, and resting.
About 18.6 percent of participants developed a hypertensive disorder during pregnancy. The study found that daily patterns of sitting and light activity were stronger predictors of risk than formal exercise alone.
Women who limited sitting to around six hours a day and engaged in nearly eight hours of light activity had an 8 percent risk of developing complications, compared to 16.9 percent among those with more sedentary routines.
Risk increased sharply when sitting exceeded 10 hours daily or when light activity dropped below five hours.
High blood pressure affects an estimated 5 to 10 percent of pregnancies and can lead to serious complications, including preterm birth, low birth weight, and, in severe cases, life-threatening conditions.
The American Heart Association notes that such conditions can also raise long-term cardiovascular risks for women.
Researchers said the findings highlight the importance of balancing movement throughout the day rather than relying only on structured exercise. They added that the results could help shape future guidelines for physical activity during pregnancy, offering practical ways to improve maternal and long-term heart health.
