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Author Spotlight: Studying the Impact of Maternal Dietary Deficiencies on Long-Term Offspring Health Outcomes
Published on: June 28, 2024
359
Barriers and facilitators for adequate calcium intake during pregnancy: A mixed methods study
I Mesters1, J P M M Willemse2, P van Montfort1
1Department of Epidemiology, Caphri School for Public Health and Primary Care, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands.
Pregnancy Hypertension
|January 9, 2025
Summary
Calcium supplementation during pregnancy shows mixed results; while many intend to improve intake, only half achieve adequate levels. Clearer guidance and addressing knowledge gaps are crucial for effective calcium intake in pregnant women.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Nutritional Science
- Public Health
Background:
- Pregnant women with insufficient calcium intake require effective preventive strategies.
- Understanding adherence and influencing factors for calcium supplementation is vital.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effectiveness of calcium supplementation in pregnant women with inadequate intake.
- To assess adherence to the recommended 1000 mg daily calcium intake.
- To identify factors influencing calcium supplementation adherence.
Main Methods:
- A survey of 823 pregnant women (Expect cohort II) assessed calcium adherence.
- Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 16 purposefully selected participants.
- Qualitative data from interviews were analyzed thematically.
Main Results:
- 82% discussed calcium's importance, 83% intended to improve intake.
- 48% of counselled women had insufficient intake vs. 64% without counseling.
- Facilitators: perceived safety, maternal motivation, trust, support, awareness. Obstacles: knowledge gaps, dosage issues, motivation, comprehension.
Conclusions:
- Counseling improved intake, but only half reached adequate levels, indicating limited understanding.
- Clearer messaging on benefits, safety, and concrete guidance can enhance calcium intake.
- Repetition of advice and increased publicity can normalize and improve calcium consumption acceptability.
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