Women's behaviour towards diet and physical activity during pregnancy
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Women’s perceptions, beliefs, influences, intentions and behaviour towards eating a healthy diet and performing physical activity during pregnancy; a qualitative study
IRAS ID
204360
Contact name
Melanie Cooper
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Bradford
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 5 months, 30 days
Research summary
Aim: The aim of this study is to explore pregnant women's perceptions, beliefs, barriers and facilitators to changing diet and physical activity behaviours during pregnancy using the theory of planned behaviour.
Purpose: The results of this study are expected to enable the researcher to develop strategies aimed at improving the adoption of a healthy lifestyle during pregnancy to improve maternal health. Previous research has demonstrated that women are more inclined to engage in healthy behaviours and to implement positive lifestyle changes during pregnancy and postpartum period; therefore it is an ideal time to influence change. However little research has been conducted regarding women's beliefs, influences, intentions and behaviour towards diet and physical activity during pregnancy.
Design: A descriptive qualitative exploratory study, underpinned by the Theory of Planned Behaviour theoretical framework. Sponsored by University of Bradford, with no funding.
Setting: Bradford Royal Infirmary maternity unit. Bradford is a multi-cultural, diverse metropolitan city.
Sample: Purposive sampling will ensure maximum variation that captures differences in this diverse population group. 12 women booked at Bradford from three ethnic backgrounds; White British, Asian Pakistani, and White Polish, with a range of body mass index's.
Inclusion criteria: Over 16 years of age, ongoing pregnancy, good understanding of English, willing to participate and be audio recorded.
Exclusion criteria: Unable to understand English (this is a masters project with no funding), type 1 or type 2 diabetics, or other medical conditions see full list.
Recruitment: Women will be approached whilst attending their glucose tolerance test a routine hospital appointment at 26 week’s gestation.
Data collection: One-to-one semi-structured audio recorded interviews conducted in a private room at a convenient time, taking approximately 30-60 minutes, participation is complete once the interview is conducted.
Data Analysis: Audio recordings will be transcribed verbatim. A method of thematic analysis will be used to analyse the data.
REC name
Yorkshire & The Humber - Leeds West Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
16/YH/0328
Date of REC Opinion
19 Aug 2016
REC opinion
Favourable Opinion