Researchers have discovered a correlation between heart rate patterns tracked by wearable fitness devices and the course of pregnancy, potentially opening avenues for earlier detection of complications like gestational diabetes and preeclampsia. the study, conducted using data from the "Powermom" digital platform, analyzed data collected from Apple Watches, Garmin devices, and fitbits.
The research team analyzed data from women three months before conception through six months postpartum. Participants used commercially available fitness trackers to record their heart rate, sleep patterns, and activity levels. These data were then compared with known hormonal changes throughout pregnancy to identify relationships.
The analysis revealed a distinct pattern: heart rate initially decreased slightly in early pregnancy (weeks 5-9) before steadily increasing, averaging 9.4 beats per minute above the baseline value shortly before birth. Following childbirth, heart rate decreased and stabilized around six months postpartum.