Self-care Behavior in Physical Activity of Employed Pregnant Women Based on the Planned Behavior Theory

Abstract

Purpose: To clarify self-care behavior, such as attitude toward the behavior, subjective norm, perceived behavioral control, and physical/environment factors of employed pregnant women using the planned behavior theory. Methods: A semi-structured interview was conducted on self-care related to physical activity before and after taking maternity leave targeting seven primiparas who worked full-time and whose pregnancy progressed normally, and data were qualitatively descriptively analyzed based on the planned behavior theory. Result: The average age was 30.1 years, and each commuted in trains. About self-care of physical activity, attitude toward behavior to take a rest to balance work and pregnancy before maternity leave. As a subjective norm, there was two-way subjective norms which was norms for affirming restraint on activities for the safety of mothers and children and to promote activities was extracted. The physical factors of pregnancy and the environmental factors of employment all served as obstacles to physical activity. After maternity leave, various inhibiting factors were recognized. Conclusions: While employed pregnant women understand the benefits of physical activity, they consciously take rest to their balance work and pregnancy. Especially after maternity leave, physical and environmental factors that cause hindrance are diverse, and a support system tailored to the individual’s life is necessary.