Evaluation of a specialist antenatal nutrition clinic for women with a body mass index = 40kg/m2: A qualitative study

Objective: To explore the views of women who attended a specialist antenatal nutrition clinic that was specifically developed and piloted for pregnant women with a BMI ≥ 40 kg/m2.
Design: A phenomenological approach, using individual interviews, was employed. Discussions were audio recorded, transcribed verbatim and scrutinised using Interpretive Phenomenological Analysis. Themes were pinpointed and supported with direct quotes to demonstrate results.
Setting and Participants: Eight women, with a BMI ≥ 40 kg/m2, receiving antenatal care at a tertiary hospital in south eastern Australia and who participated in a specialist antenatal nutrition service were interviewed.
Findings: Three main themes emerged: 1) Motivation to be Healthy; 2) Woman Centred Nutrition Care; 3) Conflicts, Confusion and Assumptions.
Key conclusions: Pregnant women with a BMI ≥ 40kgm2 responded positively to incorporating dietitians in the antenatal care setting. The reinforcement and reassurance provided by the specialist dietetic team was highly valued. More effective communication regarding referrals, improved consistency in information provided by the entire antenatal service and continuity of dietetic support beyond birth would add value to future interventions.