Deep health: A qualitative, woman-centered perspective of health during pregnancy

Abstract

ObjectiveTo explore and define a woman-centered perspective on health during pregnancy. DesignQualitative study using abductive thematic analysis of semi-structured interview data. Setting & participantsTwenty pregnant participants, primarily single and low-income, were recruited from an urban women's health clinic in the Midwestern United States and interviewed during mid-to-late pregnancy. FindingsWomen experienced health as “deeper than physical health” to include emotional well-being, financial stability, and support. We defined the central theme of Deep Health to be an embodied sense of happiness, energy, stability, and purpose (Being) supported through positive health practices (Doing) and adequate financial and social resources (Having). Key conclusions and implications for practiceWhile the Doing aspects of health are often a focal point for health promotion efforts in prenatal care, a restricted focus on lifestyle behaviors may contribute to a lack of shared understanding about health between women and their healthcare providers. Greater attention to the Being and Having aspects of health may work to bolster shared priorities for health between pregnant women and their providers.