Preferences for Postpartum Lifestyle Counseling Among Women Sharing an Increased Cardiovascular and Metabolic Risk: A Focus Group Study

Abstract

Objective. To describe women's preferences for postpartum lifestyle counseling after a pregnancy complicated by preeclampsia, intrauterine growth restriction, and/or gestational diabetes. Methods. Thirty-six women who had experienced these pregnancy complications participated in six focus group interviews. Results. All women expressed a need for participation in postpartum lifestyle counseling. They preferred participation to be tailored to individual preferences. A combination of face-to-face counseling supported by computer-tailored lifestyle advice appealed to them. Conclusion. Postpartum lifestyle counseling aimed at these women should be tailored to individual needs and preferences.

• Directive counseling
• Focus groups
• Lifestyle
• Postpartum period

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

The authors would like to thank all the women who participated in our focus group interviews, as well as Wendy Brouwer for her valuable assistance in the focus group discussions.

Declaration of interest

The authors report no conflicts of interest. The authors alone are responsible for the content and writing of the paper.