Physical Activity And Knowledge In Pregnant And Postpartum Individuals Living In Clark County, Nevada

PURPOSE: This preliminary qualitative study investigated information sources females utilized to support physical activity (PA) during pregnancy and postpartum time periods and identified perceived continued needs for educational resources. METHODS: Semi-structured interviews were conducted via Zoom with postpartum females within two years after childbirth in Las Vegas, NV after IRB approval. Questions focused on how PA information and guidance were accessed, individuals’ barriers to, or fears of, performing pre-/post-natal PA, and perceived continued areas of needed information or resources. Following each interview, transcripts were reviewed for errors and confirmed with participants. Each transcript was coded and analyzed by authors using ATLAS.ti. Themes were assigned after evaluating the coded transcripts and using inductive approach. The themes were decided by consensus after the research team evaluated the codebook and coded transcripts. RESULTS: Five individuals completed interviews. Responses indicated common information sources as their providers and internet/social media. However, they reported a dilemma between widespread accessibility of internet information and skepticism of credibility, leading to challenges in evaluating accuracy. Fear of harming the fetus or themselves leads to reducing PA, despite the desire to maintain exercise routines. More information provided by healthcare providers was consistently desired and believed to potentially reduce fear of PA. Desired information should cover potential physiological and mental changes during these time periods, how to modify exercises and avoid potential issues (e.g., diastasis recti), and provide clear rationale to understand the “why” behind changes and modifications. Disseminating information regarding group exercise or events for moms was desired to improve both physical and mental health. CONCLUSIONS: Participants used their healthcare provider, but also relied upon the internet/social media for PA guidance. Information desired includes pre-/post-natal specific exercise programs and physiological changes during these time period, including explanation of the “why” behind this information. Ideally, information would be accessed directly from providers for accuracy and reliability. Supported by: University of Nevada, Reno – Extension