ABSTRACT
In this study, women receiving basic healthcare in Ekosodin, Ovia Northeast Local Government Area, Benin City, Edo state, were asked about their understanding of the health advantages of exercising during pregnancy. The study was guided by three (3) research questions, and a review of the relevant literature was also conducted. This investigation used a descriptive research design. In Ekosodin, Ovia Northeast Local Government Area, 40 (forty) pregnant women receiving primary healthcare made up the study's population. A knowledge questionnaire about the health benefits of exercise during pregnancy was employed as the study instrument, and it was given to pregnant women attending primary health care in Ekosodin, Ovia Northeast Local Government Area, Edo State. The principal investigator and two additional instructors from the Health, Safety, and Environmental Education (HSE) department verified the questionnaire. The Pearson Product Moment Correlation Coefficient formulas were utilised to derive the reliability coefficient through the test-retest reliability approach. Frequency counts and percentages were used to analyse the data produced by the device. The majority of respondents, according to the study's findings, frequently exercise, are unaffected by factors impacting their use of antenatal care services, and are highly aware of the health benefits of exercise during pregnancy. The researcher suggested that frequent health education seminars be held in nearby areas to raise awareness of the advantages of prenatal care in light of the findings. To avoid the unfavourable perception of expecting women, nurses in the area should also discuss the health benefits of exercise in their prenatal clinics. When planning to participate in these activities (exercise), women should exercise caution, especially if they want to start just during pregnancy. The promotion of prenatal care education in their communities should involve local community leaders as well as religious and traditional leaders.
