Exploring pregnant women’s perspectives on pre-pregnancy physical activity in Nebraska: A qualitative study

Abstract

Physical activity (PA) is important for a woman’s health particularly before pregnancy, yet many remain inactive during this time despite its benefits for themselves and their child. This qualitative descriptive study explored pregnant women’s experiences with pre-pregnancy PA and the factors influencing their engagement. Using convenience sampling, data were collected from women across Nebraska between December 2023 and February 2024 via Zoom interviews. Thematic analysis, guided by the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB), identified three key themes: (1) Behavioral attitudes - women recognized the benefits of PA but lacked awareness of guidelines; (2) Subjective norms - support from partners, family, and friends encouraged participation; and (3) Perceived behavioral control-barriers such as low motivation, time constraints, and environmental factors influenced engagement. Findings highlight the need for tailored interventions, social support, and education to enhance PA before pregnancy. Addressing barriers and leveraging enablers may improve maternal and infant health outcomes.