Knowledge and beliefs about nutrition and physical activity during pregnancy in women from South Auckland region, New Zealand

Making Education Easy

Authors:

Okesene-Gafa K et al.

January 7, 2017

Summary:

Results are reported from a nutritional questionnaire completed by 422 South Auckland women during late pregnancy. Participants reported ethnicity as Māori (24.2%), Pacific (40.5%), Asian (12.8%) and European/Others (21.8%). Most (95.0%) reported receiving information about healthy eating while pregnant and 61% reported eating healthy foods frequently or very frequently. Nearly half (44.3%) reported eating more in pregnancy; the commonest reasons were cravings and ‘eating for two’. In a multivariable logistic regression analysis adjusting for ethnicity and gestation, the self-reported factors associated with infrequent healthy eating in this sample were Māori (adjusted OR 17.66; 95% CI, 8.49 to 36.77) and Pacific ethnicity (aOR 14.54; 95% CI, 7.32 to 28.88); parity ≥3 (aOR 2.09; 95% CI, 1.26 to 3.48); obesity (aOR 2.84; 95% CI, 1.35 to 5.97); unplanned pregnancy (aOR 1.95; 95% CI, 1.18 to 3.22); and eating takeaways ≥3 times/week (aOR 4.46; 95% CI, 1.88 to 10.56). The majority (83.4%) of the sample stated that they would likely/very likely participate in a nutritional intervention.

Comment:

Obesity during pregnancy is a serious health issue for both mum and pēpi. It is a difficult subject to discuss with mums; conversations must occur in ways that don’t make them feel further marginalised or stigmatised. The researchers, having recognised the sensitivities, are doing a great job in trying to address and manage it.

Reference: Aust N Z J Obstet Gynaecol. 2016;56(5):471-83

Independent commentary by Dr. Matire Hardwood

Dr Matire Harwood (Ngapuhi) has worked in Hauora Māori, primary health and rehabilitation settings as clinician and researcher since graduating from Auckland Medical School in 1994. She also holds positions on a number of boards, committees and advisory groups including the Health Research Council. Matire lives in Auckland with her whānau including partner Haunui and two young children Te Rangiura and Waimarie.

Research Review publications are intended for New Zealand health professionals.

Disclaimer: This publication is not intended as a replacement for regular medical education but to assist in the process. The reviews are a summarised interpretation of the published study and reflect the opinion of the writer rather than those of the research group or scientific journal. It is suggested readers review the full trial data before forming a final conclusion on its merits.

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