Exploring maternal nutrition counseling provided by health professionals during antenatal care follow-up: a qualitative study in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia-2019

Abstract

Background Nutritional awareness and practice of women during pregnancy could be determining their nutritional status, which significantly affects the outcome of pregnancy. Therefore this study aims to explore the maternal nutrition counseling provided by health professionals for pregnant women, Barriers to maternal nutrition, and major interventions. Methods A descriptive study design with a qualitative method by using ground theory tradition, based on constructivist research approach and Charmaz’s (2000) study design has been conducted from September-01/2019 _November-16/2019 among pregnant women who got ANC service in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. A purposive sampling technique was used. Practical observations and in-depth interviews were conducted. The sample size adjustment has been carried out according to the information saturation obtained, and finally, 81 practical observations, In-depth interview with two center managers, nine health professionals and eleven term pregnant women has been conducted. An observational checklist and Semi-structured, open-ended questionnaires were used. Data, the environment, and methodological triangulation were carried out. A conceptual framework has been established based on the data collected about the whole process of maternal nutrition counseling during pregnancy. ATLAS TI software was utilized for information analysis. The results Most participants responded that maternal nutrition counseling provided to pregnant mothers is not adequate and neglected by most stakeholders. From 81 practical observations, health professionals counseled to mothers were 10 what to feed, 4 what to limit to consume, and 5 were counseled about what to eat during pregnancy. Close to all the respondents agreed on the importance of providing nutrition counseled by the nutritionists. Most of the study participants emphasized a shortage of time as primary barriers. Institutional Barriers, Professional Barriers, Maternal Barriers, and Community Barriers were major barriers to nutrition counseling. Conclusions Generally, maternal nutrition counseling provided to pregnant mothers was not adequate and neglected by most stakeholders. Shortage of time due to client flow, Institutional Barriers, Professional Barriers, Maternal Barriers, and Community Barriers were major categories of maternal nutritional counseling barriers. Information update and timely preparation were recommended to health professionals.

Anemia in Pregnant Women as a Cultural Phenomenon: A Literature Review

“…as well as the role of family, religious figures, mothers, and in-laws. The article was explained by Workneh et al (2023), Asim et al (2022); Amare et al (2022); Maykondo et al (2022); Dalaba et al (2021), Ramulondi et al (2021), and Alehegn et al (2019). Some articles examine the opinions of traditional leaders, mothers’ perspectives, and husbands’ perceptions of anemia which are explained by 2 articles by Darmawati et al (2020) and 1 article by Darmawati et al (2022).…”

Determinants of iron-rich food deficiency among children under 5 years in sub-Saharan Africa: a comprehensive analysis of Demographic and Health Surveys

“…Plausible reasons for this finding may include the point that ANC and PNC sessions offer valuable opportunities for health education 47. During these sessions, mothers commonly receive information and guidance on proper nutrition for themselves and their infants, hence, encouraging them to prioritise iron-rich foods in their children’s meals 48. Also, healthcare providers during ANC and PNC visits offer tailored advice and recommendations specific to the mother and infant’s health needs 48.…”

“… 47 During these sessions, mothers commonly receive information and guidance on proper nutrition for themselves and their infants, hence, encouraging them to prioritise iron-rich foods in their children’s meals. 48 Also, healthcare providers during ANC and PNC visits offer tailored advice and recommendations specific to the mother and infant’s health needs. 48 They may emphasise the inclusion of iron-rich foods, providing practical suggestions and tips on how to incorporate these foods into the child’s diet effectively.…”

“… 48 Also, healthcare providers during ANC and PNC visits offer tailored advice and recommendations specific to the mother and infant’s health needs. 48 They may emphasise the inclusion of iron-rich foods, providing practical suggestions and tips on how to incorporate these foods into the child’s diet effectively. 48 Moreover, through regular check-ups and follow-up visits, healthcare providers monitor the child’s growth and development.…”

Determinants of nutritional status among pregnant women in East Shoa zone, Central Ethiopia

“…Though the evidence revealed that nutritional counseling during pregnancy improves the nutritional status of women and birth outcomes, the emphasis given to this intervention in developing countries is still low. For instance, majority of pregnant women who participated in the study done in Addis Ababa believe nutrition counseling provided to expectant mothers is not adequate and is neglected by most stake holders ( 36 ). Therefore, healthcare providers and hospital administrators should emphasize nutritional counseling and commit themselves to provide nutritional counseling to all women coming for ANC service.…”