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Talbot H, Peters S, Furber C, Smith DM. Midwives' experiences of discussing health behaviour change within routine maternity care: A qualitative systematic review and meta-synthesis. Women Birth 2024; 37:303-316. [PMID: 38195300 DOI: 10.1016/j.wombi.2024.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2023] [Revised: 12/22/2023] [Accepted: 01/02/2024] [Indexed: 01/11/2024]
Abstract
PROBLEM Behaviours, such as smoking, alcohol use, unhealthy diet, lack of physical activity and vaccination non-adherence may lead to adverse pregnancy outcomes. BACKGROUND Pregnancy has been identified as an opportune time for midwives to support women to make health behaviour changes. AIM To synthesise existing qualitative research exploring midwives' experiences of discussing health behaviour change with women within routine care. METHODS A systematic search was conducted across: Maternity and Infant Care, PsycINFO, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, and Applied Social Sciences Index and Abstracts. Thematic analysis was used to synthesise the data. A professional and public advisory group provided feedback during the synthesis stage. FINDINGS Twenty-two studies, published between 2005 and 2023, which represented findings from eight countries, were included in the review. The meta-synthesis revealed three themes: The midwife-woman relationship; Reflective and tailored behaviour change communication; Practical barriers to behaviour change conversations. This led to one overarching theme: Although midwives recognised the importance of behaviour change discussions, these conversations were not prioritised in clinical practice. CONCLUSION Health behaviour change discussions were de-prioritised in midwives' clinical practice. Future research should explore intervention development to support midwives with their health behaviour change communication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah Talbot
- Division of Psychology and Mental Health, School of Health Sciences, University of Manchester, UK.
| | - Sarah Peters
- Division of Psychology and Mental Health, School of Health Sciences, University of Manchester, UK
| | - Christine Furber
- Division of Nursing, Midwifery and Social Work, School of Health Sciences, University of Manchester, UK
| | - Debbie M Smith
- Division of Psychology and Mental Health, School of Health Sciences, University of Manchester, UK
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Vasiliu O. The complex interplay between psychosocial and biological factors in pregorexia nervosa - a rapid review. Front Psychol 2023; 14:1168696. [PMID: 37404586 PMCID: PMC10315849 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1168696] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2023] [Accepted: 05/31/2023] [Indexed: 07/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The importance of detecting eating disorders (EDs) during pregnancy cannot be overemphasized, because of the major negative effects this pathology has on both maternal and fetal health. Based on a rapid review including primary and secondary reports, PN may still be considered an elusive diagnosis entity, that partially overlaps with other EDs, either well-defined, like anorexia nervosa, or still in search of their own diagnosis criteria, like orthorexia nervosa. Neurochemical and hormonal factors, psychological and social mechanisms, along with lifestyle changes create a very complex framework for clinicians interested in defining the typical features of pregorexia nervosa (PN). The personal history of EDs is considered one of the most important risk factors for PN. The core diagnostic criteria for this entity are, so far, lack of gaining weight during pregnancy, an excessive focus on counting calories and/or intense physical exercising with a secondary decrease of interest in the fetus's health, lack of acceptance of the change in body shape during pregnancy, and pathological attention for own body image. Regarding the treatment of PN, nutritional and psychosocial interventions are recommended but no specific therapeutic strategies for this disorder have been detected in the literature. Psychotherapy is considered the main intervention for pregnant women with associated EDs and mood disorders, as the pharmacological agents could have teratogenic effects or insufficient data to support their safety in this population. In conclusion, taking into consideration the methodological limitations of a rapid review, data supporting the existence of PN were found, mainly regarding tentative diagnostic criteria, risk factors, and pathophysiological aspects. These data, corroborated with the importance of preserving optimal mental health in a vulnerable population, e.g., pregnant women, justify the need for further research focused on finding specific diagnostic criteria and targeted therapeutic approaches.
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Lim S, Harrison C, Callander E, Walker R, Teede H, Moran L. Addressing Obesity in Preconception, Pregnancy, and Postpartum: A Review of the Literature. Curr Obes Rep 2022; 11:405-414. [PMID: 36318371 PMCID: PMC9729313 DOI: 10.1007/s13679-022-00485-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Reproductive-aged women (aged 19 to 50 years) are a key population warranting focused research for the prevention of overweight and obesity. This review highlights the importance of addressing weight before, during and after pregnancy. RECENT FINDINGS Obesity decreases fertility during the preconception period; increases the risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes including gestational diabetes, pre-eclampsia and caesarean section and postpartum weight retention; and increases the long-term health risks for both the mother and offspring. Despite overwhelming efficacy evidence on solutions, there are significant implementation gaps in translating this evidence into pragmatic models of care and real-world solutions. Interventions during preconception, pregnancy and postpartum are likely to be cost-effective or cost-saving, with future investigation needed in the preconception and postpartum period. International clinical guidelines and public health policies are needed for a concerted effort to prevent unhealthy weight gain in these life stages and to reverse the significant adverse health outcomes for women and the next generation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siew Lim
- Monash Centre for Health Research and Implementation, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
- Health Systems and Equity, Eastern Health Clinical School, Monash University, Boxhill, VIC, Australia
| | - Cheryce Harrison
- Monash Centre for Health Research and Implementation, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Emily Callander
- Monash Centre for Health Research and Implementation, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Ruth Walker
- Monash Centre for Health Research and Implementation, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Helena Teede
- Monash Centre for Health Research and Implementation, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Lisa Moran
- Monash Centre for Health Research and Implementation, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia.
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Souza Leite Vieira A, Nascimento SL, Souza Silva L, Mendes Pedroso Chainça T, Costa Machado H, Surita FG. Self-reported exercise or physical activity level: what matters to a better quality of life in the third trimester of pregnancy? Women Health 2022; 62:799-808. [PMID: 36404410 DOI: 10.1080/03630242.2022.2146833] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
This study evaluated the relationship of self-reported exercise, physical activity (PA) level, and Quality of Life (QoL) among women in their third trimester of pregnancy and verified which factors are associated with physical exercise (PE) and QoL. A cross-sectional study was performed with women who have been pregnant for at least 28 weeks and who can engage in PE. Data on self-reported exercise, sociodemographic characteristics, PA level, and QoL were collected through the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) and the World Health Organization Quality of Life Questionnaire BREF version (WHOQOL-BREF). Frequencies, bivariate analyses, and logistic and linear regression were performed. Among 405 pregnant women, 103 (25.43 percent) reported practicing PE. The self-reported PE was associated with better scores in the physical and environmental domains of the WHOQOL-BREF. Several IPAQ variables and the WHOQOL-BREF environmental score were associated with self-reported exercise. The majority classified as "active" by the IPAQ was due to employment and not the PE practice. A correct conceptual approach to PA and PE during antenatal care has a different impact on health and QoL during pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- André Souza Leite Vieira
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medical Science, University of Campinas, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Luana Souza Silva
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medical Science, University of Campinas, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Helymar Costa Machado
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medical Science, University of Campinas, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Fernanda G Surita
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medical Science, University of Campinas, Sao Paulo, Brazil
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Makaruk B, Grantham W, Organista N, Płaszewski M. "Conscious Nine Months": Exploring Regular Physical Activity amongst Pregnant Women-A Qualitative Study Protocol. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:11605. [PMID: 36141881 PMCID: PMC9517471 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph191811605] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2022] [Revised: 09/07/2022] [Accepted: 09/13/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Despite a clear and convincing evidence base and strong recommendations for pregnant women to maintain regular moderate physical activity throughout pregnancy, many of them reduce or discontinue exercise altogether. This is due to pregnancy-related difficulties and barriers. The aim of this protocol is to describe a qualitative research methodology for a study exploring the experiences of women who managed to achieve the recommended levels of physical activity throughout their pregnancy by regularly participating in a specially designed "Conscious nine months" exercise programme. A qualitative descriptive design will be used, including semi-structured in-depth literature-based interviews, together with thematic analysis. Consolidated criteria for reporting qualitative research (COREQ) guidelines will be used. In-depth individual interviews (60-90 min) with exercise programme participants, used together with a thematic analysis process, will allow for a better understanding and exploration of what enabled the participants to achieve such high adherence to the overall exercise programme. The chosen methodology offers a structured way for researchers to explore the experiences and factors that influence the ability of pregnant women to be physically active, enabling research into how pregnant women can be supported to remain active during this special, often challenging time in life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beata Makaruk
- Department of Sport for All, Faculty of Physical Education and Health in Biała Podlaska, Józef Piłsudski University of Physical Education, 00-968 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Weronika Grantham
- Department of Sport for All, Faculty of Physical Education and Health in Biała Podlaska, Józef Piłsudski University of Physical Education, 00-968 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Natalia Organista
- Department of Humanities and Social Sciences, Faculty of Physical Education, Józef Piłsudski University of Physical Education, 00-968 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Maciej Płaszewski
- Department of Rehabilitation, Faculty of Physical Education and Health in Biała Podlaska, Józef Piłsudski University of Physical Education, 00-968 Warsaw, Poland
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Empowerment for behaviour change through social connections: a qualitative exploration of women's preferences in preconception health promotion in the state of Victoria, Australia. BMC Public Health 2022; 22:1642. [PMID: 36042440 PMCID: PMC9425810 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-022-14028-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2022] [Accepted: 08/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Health behaviours in the preconception period have the potential to impact on fertility and pregnancy outcomes, and the health of all women regardless of pregnancy intention. Public awareness of this is low and interventions that promote behaviour change have not been integrated into real-world settings. Aims were to explore women's understandings of health and health behaviours and what supports are important to promote behaviour change in the preconception period. METHODS This qualitative study is the first phase of a broader co-design project set in the state of Victoria, Australia. Over 3 months, a series of in-depth interviews were conducted with female participants who were intending to become pregnant in the next 2 years (n = 6) and participants who were not intending to become pregnant in the next 2 years (n = 6). Community advisors (n = 8) aged 18-45 years provided feedback throughout the process. Coding of transcripts from interviews and meetings was undertaken by two researchers before a deductive process identified themes mapped to the COM-B framework. RESULTS Nine themes and eight sub-themes were identified. Participants had a holistic view of health with nutrition, physical activity and sleep being most valued. Social connections were considered as being important for overall health and wellbeing and for promoting health behaviours. The only difference between groups was that pregnancy was an additional motivator for women who were planning to become pregnant in the next 2 years. A range of health information is available from health professionals and other sources. Unlimited access to information was empowering but sometimes overwhelming. Being listened to and shared experiences were aspects of social connections that validated participants and guided them in their decision-making. CONCLUSIONS Women valued their health and had a holistic view that includes physical, mental and social dimensions. Women viewed social connections with others as an opportunity to be listened to and to gain support that empowers behaviour change. Future interventions to promote behaviour change in preconception women should consider the importance all women placed on social connections and leverage off existing resources to connect women.
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Ruart S, Sinnapah S, Hue O, Janky E, Antoine-Jonville S. Association Between Maternal Body Mass and Physical Activity Counseling During Pregnancy. Front Psychol 2021; 12:612420. [PMID: 34899448 PMCID: PMC8656300 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2021.612420] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2020] [Accepted: 10/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Aims: The antenatal period provides an important opportunity for giving advice on healthy lifestyle choices. However, the prevalence of maternal obesity is increasing, and women report that they do not receive counseling. We investigated the information given to pregnant women on gestational weight gain, physical activity, and nutrition during pregnancy in relation with their initial weight status, current gestational weight gain and diagnoses of either pre-pregnancy overweight/obesity or excessive gestational weight gain. Methods: Cross-sectional survey using a questionnaire. Pregnant participants (n = 141) were recruited from a midwife center. They completed a structured questionnaire on the information they received during their pregnancy and we assessed its relationship with their weight. Results: We found that many pregnant women did not receive advice about physical activity, gestational weight gain and nutrition (37.5, 53.2, and 66.2%, respectively). Women with weight problems (pre-pregnancy overweight/obesity and excessive gestational weight gain) were less targeted for counseling, although more than 80% of the women viewed receiving information on these topics as positive. Also, being informed of a weight problem was associated with a greater chance of receiving information about physical activity, gestational weight gain and nutrition (all p < 0.05). However, verbalization of the weight problems was low (14.0% of women with pre-pregnancy overweight were informed of their status). Conclusion: Health professionals should dispense more information, especially on PA and particularly for women with weight problems. Verbalization of the weight problem seems associated with more frequent transmission of information.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shelly Ruart
- Laboratoire Adaptations au Climat Tropical Exercices et Santé (ACTES) (EA 3596), Université des Antilles, Pointe-à-Pitre, France
| | - Stéphane Sinnapah
- Laboratoire Adaptations au Climat Tropical Exercices et Santé (ACTES) (EA 3596), Université des Antilles, Pointe-à-Pitre, France
| | - Olivier Hue
- Laboratoire Adaptations au Climat Tropical Exercices et Santé (ACTES) (EA 3596), Université des Antilles, Pointe-à-Pitre, France
| | - Eustase Janky
- Service de Gynécologie Obstétrique, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de la Guadeloupe, Pointe-à-Pitre, France
| | - Sophie Antoine-Jonville
- Laboratoire Adaptations au Climat Tropical Exercices et Santé (ACTES) (EA 3596), Université des Antilles, Pointe-à-Pitre, France
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Evenosky S, Lewis E, DiSantis KI. A Mixed Methods Case Study of Food Shopping in a Community with High Infant Mortality. Nutrients 2021; 13:3845. [PMID: 34836108 PMCID: PMC8623881 DOI: 10.3390/nu13113845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2021] [Revised: 10/25/2021] [Accepted: 10/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
In the U.S., preterm birth disproportionately impacts certain racial/ethnic groups, with Black women experiencing preterm birth at a rate 50% higher than other groups. Among the numerous factors that likely contribute to these increased rates are neighborhood characteristics, such as food environment. In this mixed-methods case study, we evaluated how pregnant women living in a predominately minority, lower income community with high preterm birth rates navigate and perceive their food environment. Qualitative interviews were performed to assess perceptions of food environment (n = 7) along with geographic and observational assessments of their food environment. Participants traveled an average of 2.10 miles (SD = 1.16) and shopped at an average of 3 stores. They emphasized the importance of pricing and convenience when considering where to shop and asserted that they sought out healthier foods they thought would enhance their pregnancy health. Observational assessments of stores' nutrition environment showed that stores with lower nutritional scores were in neighborhoods with greater poverty and a higher percent Black population. Future policies and programmatic efforts should focus on improving nutrition during pregnancy for women living in communities with high rates of poor birth outcomes. Availability, affordability, and accessibility are key aspects of the food environment to consider when attempting to achieve birth equity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Evenosky
- College of Health Sciences, Arcadia University, Glenside, PA 19038, USA
| | - Eleanor Lewis
- Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA;
| | - Katherine I. DiSantis
- College of Population Health, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA;
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Goldstein RF, Boyle JA, Lo C, Teede HJ, Harrison CL. Facilitators and barriers to behaviour change within a lifestyle program for women with obesity to prevent excess gestational weight gain: a mixed methods evaluation. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth 2021; 21:569. [PMID: 34407775 PMCID: PMC8375116 DOI: 10.1186/s12884-021-04034-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2021] [Accepted: 08/03/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Maternal obesity is associated with health risks for women and their babies and is exacerbated by excess gestational weight gain. The aim of this study was to describe women’s experiences and perspectives in attending a Healthy Pregnancy Service designed to optimise healthy lifestyle and support recommended gestational weight gain for women with obesity. Methods An explanatory sequential mixed methods study design utilised two questionnaires (completed in early and late pregnancy) to quantify feelings, motivation and satisfaction with the service, followed by semi-structured interviews that explored barriers and enablers of behaviour change. Data were analysed separately and then interpreted together. Results Overall, 49 women attending the service completed either questionnaire 1, 2 or both and were included in the analysis. Fourteen women were interviewed. Prior to pregnancy, many women had gained weight and attempted to lose weight independently, and reported they were highly motivated to achieve a healthy lifestyle. During pregnancy, diet changes were reported as easier to make and sustain than exercise changes. Satisfaction with the service was high. Key factors identified in qualitative analysis were: service support enabled change; motivation to change behaviour, social support, barriers to making change (intrinsic, extrinsic and clinic-related), post-partum lifestyle and needs. On integration of data, qualitative and quantitative findings aligned. Conclusions The Healthy Pregnancy service was valued by women. Barriers and enablers to the delivery of an integrated model of maternity care that supported healthy lifestyle and recommended gestational weight gain were identified. These findings have informed and improved implementation and further scale up of this successful service model, integrating healthy lifestyle into routine antenatal care of women with obesity. Trial registration This trial is registered with the Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (no.12620000985987). Registration date 30/09/2020, retrospectively registered. http://www.anzctr.org.au/ Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12884-021-04034-7.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca F Goldstein
- Monash Centre for Health Research and Implementation, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Level 1, 43-51 Kanooka Gve, Clayton, 3168, Australia.,Diabetes and Vascular Medicine Unit, Monash Health, Clayton, 3168, Australia
| | - Jacqueline A Boyle
- Monash Centre for Health Research and Implementation, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Level 1, 43-51 Kanooka Gve, Clayton, 3168, Australia.,Monash Women's, Monash Health, Clayton, 3168, Australia
| | - Clement Lo
- Monash Centre for Health Research and Implementation, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Level 1, 43-51 Kanooka Gve, Clayton, 3168, Australia.,Diabetes and Vascular Medicine Unit, Monash Health, Clayton, 3168, Australia
| | - Helena J Teede
- Monash Centre for Health Research and Implementation, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Level 1, 43-51 Kanooka Gve, Clayton, 3168, Australia.,Diabetes and Vascular Medicine Unit, Monash Health, Clayton, 3168, Australia
| | - Cheryce L Harrison
- Monash Centre for Health Research and Implementation, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Level 1, 43-51 Kanooka Gve, Clayton, 3168, Australia. .,Diabetes and Vascular Medicine Unit, Monash Health, Clayton, 3168, Australia.
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Bahri Khomami M, Walker R, Kilpatrick M, de Jersey S, Skouteris H, Moran LJ. The role of midwives and obstetrical nurses in the promotion of healthy lifestyle during pregnancy. Ther Adv Reprod Health 2021; 15:26334941211031866. [PMID: 34396131 PMCID: PMC8361518 DOI: 10.1177/26334941211031866] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2020] [Accepted: 06/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Women with maternal obesity, an unhealthy lifestyle before and during pregnancy
and excess gestational weight gain have an increased risk of adverse pregnancy
and birth outcomes that can also increase the risk of long-term poor health for
them and their children. Pregnant women have frequent medical appointments and
are highly receptive to health advice. Healthcare professionals who interact
with women during pregnancy are in a privileged position to support women to
make lasting healthy lifestyle changes that can improve gestational weight gain
and pregnancy outcomes and halt the intergenerational nature of obesity.
Midwives and obstetrical nurses are key healthcare professionals responsible for
providing antenatal care in most countries. Therefore, it is crucial for them to
build and enhance their ability to promote healthy lifestyles in pregnant women.
Undergraduate midwifery curricula usually lack sufficient lifestyle content to
provide emerging midwives and obstetrical nurses with the knowledge, skills, and
confidence to effectively assess and support healthy lifestyle behaviours in
pregnant women. Consequently, registered midwives and obstetrical nurses may not
recognise their role in healthy lifestyle promotion specific to healthy eating
and physical activity in practice. In addition, practising midwives and
obstetrical nurses do not consistently have access to healthy lifestyle
promotion training in the workplace. Therefore, many midwives and obstetrical
nurses may not have the confidence and/or skills to support pregnant women to
improve their lifestyles. This narrative review summarises the role of midwives
and obstetrical nurses in the promotion of healthy lifestyles relating to
healthy eating and physical activity and optimising weight in pregnancy, the
barriers that they face to deliver optimal care and an overview of what we know
works when supporting midwives and obstetrical nurses in their role to support
women in achieving a healthy lifestyle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahnaz Bahri Khomami
- Monash Centre for Health Research and Implementation (MCHRI), Level 1, 43-51 Kanooka Grove, Clayton, VIC, 3168, Australia
| | - Ruth Walker
- Monash Centre for Health Research and Implementation, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Michelle Kilpatrick
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia
| | - Susan de Jersey
- Perinatal Research Centre, Centre for Clinical Research and Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Helen Skouteris
- Monash Centre for Health Research and Implementation, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Lisa J Moran
- Monash Centre for Health Research and Implementation, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
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Okafor UB, Goon DT. Physical Activity in Pregnancy: Beliefs, Benefits, and Information-Seeking Practices of Pregnant Women in South Africa. J Multidiscip Healthc 2021; 14:787-798. [PMID: 33859477 PMCID: PMC8043848 DOI: 10.2147/jmdh.s287109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2020] [Accepted: 11/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Notwithstanding the benefits of physical activity (PA) during pregnancy, anecdotal evidence suggests ignorance, unscientific beliefs, and lack of awareness about PA among pregnant South African women. Aim This study examined the beliefs, perceived benefits, and sources of information on PA during pregnancy. Methods A cross-sectional descriptive study was employed between June and September 2019 using an interviewer-administered questionnaire with 1,082 pregnant women. These women were attending antenatal primary health–care clinics in Buffalo City, Eastern Cape, South Africa. A self-designed questionnaire solicited information on beliefs, benefits, and sources of information regarding PA during pregnancy. Results A majority of the participants held positive beliefs concerning PA during pregnancy. They maintained that PA was safe for mother and fetus, improved labor and delivery (93.1%), promoted energy (89.0%), and should be discontinued when tired (76.6%). Most held negative convictions that PA during pregnancy increased body temperature (64.5%) and that pregnancy was a time to rest and refrain from PA (56.5%). Predominantl sources of information received about PA during pregnancy were television, the radio, and other media (70.2%). Most participants were aware of the benefits of PA during pregnancy —— reduction in infant weight (61.4%), lessening of moodiness (90.4), and decreased risk of gestational diabetes mellitus (92.9%), pregnancy-induced hypertension (92.5%), and complications at birth (97.8%), while common negative perceptions included musculoskeletal discomfort (82.7%), and back pain (85.7%). An overwhelming majority affirmed that PA improved self-image (95.7%), sleep patterns (94.2%), and respiratory function (95.8%). Conclusion Our findings suggested that women hold positive beliefs and perceive PA as beneficial to their health and the baby; however, they received most of their information from the Internet. Most women regarded pregnancy as a period to relax and rest. Interventions to promote PA during pregnancy are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Daniel Ter Goon
- Department of Public Health, University of Fort Hare, East London, South Africa
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