Pregnant women’s experiences of the digital self-care program women-in-motion to manage physical activity and pelvic girdle pain: A qualitative study

Background Few pregnant women meet activity guidelines, and about half experience pelvic girdle pain (PGP), with 10% developing chronic symptoms. PGP is multifactorial and tailored physical activity and exercise can reduce pain. A web-based self-care program, Women-In-Motion (WIM), was developed to support physical activity during pregnancy and help prevent and manage PGP. Aim The study aim was to explore pregnant women’s experiences with and perceptions of WIM for managing physical activity and PGP to optimize quality of life during pregnancy. A second aim was to use the results for improvements of WIM. Method A qualitative approach was employed using focus groups, conducted digitally or in hybrid formats. Pregnant women, gestational weeks <30, were invited. The participants had access to the program one to five weeks prior to focus groups. All sessions were recorded, transcribed, and analysed using a combination of Krueger and Casey’s constant comparison method and Graneheim and Lundman’s inductive content analysis. Results Four focus groups were conducted with pregnant women (n=17), representing variation in parity, exercise habits, and experiences of PGP. The analysis resulted in an overarching theme: “Moving confidently through pregnancy” . WIM was seen as helping reduce barriers to physical activity while providing biopsychosocial pain insights. Varying support needs indicate more individualized approaches. Conclusion Overall, participants experienced the WIM program to enhance their confidence, and their shared perceptions of diverse needs will inform program revisions.