Intensity of physical activity, V̇O₂max, and mental health in women: does motherhood matter?

Abstract

Introduction Anxiety and depression are among the leading global public health problems, especially among women. This study aimed to investigate the effect of intensity of physical activity, V̇O2max, and motherhood on mental health in women. Additionally, the study sought to develop a predictive equation for anxiety and depression in women based on the evaluated variables. Methods The study included 167 healthy women (mean age: 43.3 ± 15.6 years; weight: 63.0 ± 12.0 kg; height: 1.62 ± 0.06 m) who completed four questionnaires: the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ), Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9), General Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7), and motherhood-related question (Do you have children?). Maximal oxygen consumption (V̇O2max) was assessed through an incremental exercise test. Results Eighty-eight women were mothers (52.7%) and 79 women were childless (47.3%). Mothers had significantly lower depression levels compared to childless women (p = 0.012), with no significant differences in anxiety levels (p = 0.075). The number of children did not significantly influence depression (p = 0.182) or anxiety symptoms (p = 0.380). Vigorous physical activity was negatively associated with depression (r = −0.361, p < 0.001) and anxiety (r = −0.198, p = 0.010). Depression levels (PHQ-9 score) were predicted by weekly minutes of vigorous physical activity (β = −0.367, t = −5.132, p < 0.001) and motherhood status (β = −0.181, t = −2.532, p = 0.012) (r2 = 0.163, p < 0.001). Conclusion High-intensity physical activity and motherhood, regardless of the number of children, predict the frequency of depressive symptoms but do not affect anxiety symptoms.