Table 6 Qualitative data
S/N | Theme | Example quotes |
|---|---|---|
1 | Understanding of physical activity | "To be doing work, doing everything, walking" "Exercise is to jump, walk, do so many things." "Physical activity is any body movement that uses energy, like walking, dancing, or doing chores around the house." |
2 | Types of physical activity engaged in | "When I want to go to market, I won't climb a bike; I can trek going and coming back." "Dancing" "Walking from street to street." "Mostly just walking to places instead of taking transportation. And some little housework." |
3 | Personal experiences with physical activity during pregnancy | “Sometimes it seems I want to deliver the baby , because the baby seems to come down. I will have strength." "I used to feel tired, very tired." "I feel lighter and relaxed with no pain at all." "Physical activity tends to drain me easily and cause dizziness." |
4 | Changes from pre-pregnancy activity | "I used to do it now because if I wanted to go somewhere, I wouldn’t go by bike. I don’t need to climb a bike. I can walk on my leg." "I used to jog, but I can't jog now." "I used to run but can no longer do that." "I used to jog regularly and do full yoga routines before I became pregnant." |
5 | Barriers to physical activity | "I feel back pain, and my leg will be weak, body pain." "Tiredness, back pain, vomiting, spitting" “Body pain" "Morning sickness was a major barrier earlier. Now it's mostly fear of safety for me and my baby." |
6 | Frequency of physical activity | "I exercise every two days…if I want to walk, I will go to the market." "I exercise almost every day. I walk for 20 min every day." "Maybe 2–3 times" |
7 | Role of support/information | "Support motivates me to do it more." "Yes, support from my husband motivates me." "Yes, having some encouragement and guidance helps motivate me." |
8 | Perceived benefits | ."It is very okay because if you reach your birth time, you will find it easy." "Yes, it makes your body flexible." "I feel lighter." "Yes, it can ease constipation and back pain, and they said it prepares for labour." |
9 | Sources of information | "I used to hear it everywhere, from my friends, people, radio and even when you come to the hospital." "Television, Health care worker" "Social media" "Mainly pregnancy books/websites and tips from my doctor." |
10 | Information from healthcare workers | "Yes, when we come to the hospital, they tell us to exercise our body." "Yes" "Yes, we do." "Yes, my doctor advised me on appropriate types and levels of exercise." |