Informing a healthy eating and physical activity program to decrease postnatal weight retention: What are women...

Area of Science:

• Maternal Health
• Public Health
• Digital Health Interventions

Background:

• Postpartum weight retention is linked to obesity and chronic disease.
• Existing programs show success but face engagement barriers.
• This study explores women's experiences and views on digital interventions for lifestyle goals.

Purpose of the Study:

• Investigate healthy eating, physical activity, and weight management experiences of postpartum women.
• Explore women's perspectives on digital health interventions for postnatal lifestyle goals.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative descriptive study using semi-structured interviews.
• Participants included recent mothers with gestational diabetes or BMI > 25 kg/m².
• Thematic analysis was used to identify key themes from interview transcripts.

Main Results:

• Two main topics emerged: (i) enablers/barriers to healthy eating and physical activity, and (ii) desired characteristics of a postpartum program.
• Specific themes and sub-themes were identified within these topics.
• Nine women were interviewed, with an average age of 33.4 years.

Conclusions:

• Understanding women's needs is crucial for designing engaging and effective postnatal lifestyle programs.
• Future programs should utilize existing infrastructure and digital delivery methods.
• Digital resources and text messaging can enhance accessibility and support sustained behavior change.