Antenatal physical activity: a qualitative study exploring women’s experiences and acceptability of a walking group

Abstract

Background. Regular physical activity (PA) can be beneficial to pregnant women, however, many women do not adhere to current PA guidelines when pregnant. In order to identify important and essential characteristics for future health behaviour change interventions, the aim of this research was to explore women’s experiences of PA during a recent pregnancy, understand the barriers and determinants of antenatal PA and explore the acceptability of an antenatal walking group. Methods. Seven focus groups were undertaken with a total of 24 women who gave birth within the past five years. Focus groups were transcribed and analysed using thematic analysis. Findings. Women’s experiences of PA during pregnancy were categorised into biological/physical, psychological and social issues. These included tiredness, morning sickness, fear of harm to baby, self-confidence and access to facilities. Women gave a range of views towards an antenatal walking group including both positive aspects such as social support and negative aspects such as walking being boring. Exploration of themes indicated that the Health Action Process Model, specifically risk perceptions, outcome expectancies, and self-efficacy, may be appropriate as a foundation for a future behaviour change intervention. Discussion. Many of the barriers to PA during pregnancy can be addressed through intervention. Adaptions need to be made to traditional walking groups in order to maximise participation and engagement. The findings of this study present the foundation to building a theory based antenatal PA intervention addressing constructs such as risk perceptions and self-efficacy.