Making Compromises: A Qualitative Study of Sugar Consumption Behaviors During Pregnancy

ObjectiveTo explore influences on women's sugar consumption behaviors during pregnancy.DesignFocused ethnography guided this qualitative study. Contrasting experiences between women with varying sugar intakes were investigated using semi-structured interviews.SettingMetropolitan area, Canada.ParticipantsFifteen women with varying intakes of added sugar, who were in the third trimester of their first pregnancy, participated in this study.Phenomenon of InterestSugar consumption behaviors during pregnancy.AnalysisInterviews were audio-recorded, transcribed, and analyzed using qualitative content analysis to inductively derive themes.ResultsPregnant women increased their intake of sugars in an effort to achieve a compromise between meeting nutrition recommendations, lifestyle adjustments, physical symptoms, and cultural norms. Physical symptoms, lack of nutritional guidance, and social pressures were identified as barriers to achieving a diet low in sugars, whereas implementing dietary strategies guided by nutritional knowledge was a facilitator.Conclusions and ImplicationsThis research provides insights that may be used to design effective interventions to improve maternal health. Strategies to help pregnant women achieve a healthy diet and limit sugar intake should be guided by nutritional knowledge, dietary awareness, and internal motivations to engage in healthy dietary changes.