Using COM-B model in identifying factors influencing exercise adherence in pregnant women with gestational diabetes mellitus in China: a qualitative study

Our study found that limited engagement in pre-pregnancy and early pregnancy physical activity, challenges of physical discomfort, insufficient knowledge and skills regarding exercise during pregnancy, insufficient professional guidance, limited peer support and community-based support, and negative emotions related to uncertain exercise safety during pregnancy were notable barriers to compliance with exercise recommendations in women with GDM. This has clinical implications for healthcare professionals to design context-specific interventions to address these barriers, thereby improving exercise compliance and physical activity levels among women with GDM.