Lifestyle risk reduction engagement during interconception: a qualitative descriptive study of women's preferences

Prevention and self-management of lifestyle risks can reduce non-communicable disease risks and improve the health of mothers and their children. We explored Australian women's preferences for lifestyle risk reduction engagement during the interconception period.

We conducted a qualitative descriptive interview study between February and May 2022. Women and people who have been pregnant and intended to have more children were recruited. We asked participants about their preferences for lifestyle risk reduction between pregnancies. Following reflexive thematic analysis, we conceptualised findings using the COM-B system.

Among 17 participants, most had given birth to one child and intended to have another child in 1 to 2 years. Our analysis found that most described lifestyle risk reduction engagement through nutrition and exercise, informed by personal experiences and their health goals for a future pregnancy/child. Key attributes affecting engagement in lifestyle risk reduction activities included their feasibility and practicality, habits and routines, motivation, pregnancy planning, and the source and quality of information. Participants' capacity and capability to engage in lifestyles supportive of interconception health were varied and influenced by juggling the routines of work, finances, health and evolving caring responsibilities. Community-based influences, including the availability of recreational infrastructure, the level of support provided by partners/family/peers and culture, also influenced participants' engagement in lifestyle risk reduction activities.

For lifestyles that encourage interconception health, maximising participants' capability and opportunities required motivation and access to infrastructure supportive of healthy meal options and exercise, health services and community networks.