The Experiences and Meanings of Food Consumption and Iron Supplement Intake among Pregnant Women in Trang Province: A Phenomenological Study
Abstract
Introduction: Providing nutritional education and guidance on the use of iron supplements, and adapting healthcare services to align with the lifestyles and cultures, to help prevent anemia in pregnant women.
Research objectives: This study aims to phenomenologically study the experiences, meanings, and understanding of food consumption and iron supplement intake among pregnant women in relation to anemia. To conduct a phenomenological study exploring the experiences, meanings, and understanding of dietary consumption and iron supplementation tablet use among pregnant women in relation to anemia prevention.
Research methodology: A qualitative phenomenological study was conducted using in-depth interviews with 20 pregnant women attending antenatal care at Trang Hospital. Data were analyzed using inductive content analysis.
Results: Four main themes emerged: medication-taking behaviors, food consumption influenced by convenience and personal preference, the impact of cultural and religious beliefs, and barriers to accessing health services including fear of medical procedures and inconvenient appointment scheduling.
Conclusion: The experiences and understanding regarding food consumption and iron supplement intake among pregnant women are shaped by complex behaviors, cultural factors, and healthcare service systems. The experiences and understanding of dietary consumption and iron supplementation use among pregnant women are determined by complex interrelationships between behavioral patterns, cultural factors, and healthcare service delivery systems.
Implications: Emphasizing nutritional education and proper iron supplement use while adapting health services to lifestyles and cultural contexts can enhance sustainable prenatal care.
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