Pregnancy provides a unique opportunity to promote physical activity behaviour change especially given the increased contact with healthcare professionals (HCPs). However, HCPs lack confidence, training, knowledge and resources to deliver appropriate physical activity advice to pregnant women. Consequently, pregnant women may receive inconsistent, vague and conflicting guidance.

In response to the need for clear evidence and resources for HCPs, the four UK Chief Medical Officers commissioned the Physical Activity and Pregnancy Study, led by Dr Foster, to review the available evidence and, if sufficient, provide evidence-based recommendations in the form of an infographic.

This presentation will describe how public health recommendations are constructed using different types of research evidence, and share the evidence reviews and development process of guidelines for physical activity and pregnancy.