Introduction: Based on a socioecological model, the present study examined multilevel barriers and facilitators related to physical activity engagement during pregnancy in women of low socioeconomic status.
Methods: Individual and paired interviews were conducted with 25 pregnant women (aged 18‐46 years, 17‐40 weeks’ gestation) to ask about motivational factors and to compare differences in activity level and parity. Atlas/Ti software was used to code verbatim interview transcripts by organizing codes into categories that reflect symbolic domains of meaning, relational patterns, and overarching themes.
Results: Perceived barriers and motivating factors differed between exercisers and nonexercisers at intrapersonal, interpersonal, and environmental levels.
Discussion: Future interventions should take into account key motivating multilevel factors and barriers to tailor more meaningful advice for pregnant women.