Supporting postpartum physical activity in maternity care: a co-creation study in Denmark

Area of Science:

• Maternal Health
• Public Health
• Healthcare Interventions

Background:

• Physical activity (PA) is crucial for maternal health.
• The postpartum period is a key opportunity to establish healthy behaviors.
• Effective postpartum PA support requires interdisciplinary coordination in maternity care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To co-create strategies for supporting postpartum physical activity (PA) within Danish maternity care.
• To identify optimal timing and methods for delivering PA support to postpartum women.

Main Methods:

• A two-phase co-creation study guided by the "PRODUCES+ framework".
• Phase 1: Expert interviews and literature review on postpartum PA.
• Phase 2: Co-creation workshops with stakeholders including postpartum women and healthcare professionals (HCPs).

Main Results:

• Identified key themes: PA discussion approaches, HCP roles/competencies, and interdisciplinary collaboration.
• Optimal PA support timing: third trimester and two months postpartum.
• Co-created strategies included screening, defined HCP roles, PA support arenas, motivation techniques, and national guidelines.

Conclusions:

• Postpartum PA support can be embedded within existing maternity care touchpoints.
• Interdisciplinary coordination and targeted support are vital for strengthening postpartum PA.
• A shared professional understanding of postpartum PA is essential.