Experiences and Perspectives of Pregnant Women Regarding the Promotion of Food and Health Literacy in the Multicultural Context of the Southern Border Provinces

Abstract

Background and Objectives Poor nutritional status and inadequate health care among pregnant women remain pressing concerns in the Southern Border Provinces, such as anemia in pregnancy and low birth weight in newborns. Although various agencies have worked to promote nutritional and health literacy in the area, the region's distinctive way of life, cultural traditions, and local eating practices mean that any such effort must be grounded in how pregnant women themselves perceive and make sense of these messages. However, little is known about their perspectives, the factors that shape them, or the obstacles they face in everyday life. This research aimed to explore pregnant women’s experiences and perspectives on food and health literacy promotion in the Southern Border Provinces.

Methods This was a qualitative descriptive study. Participants were 30 pregnant women in Pattani, Yala, and Narathiwat provinces who attended food and health literacy programs of the Thai Health Promotion Foundation (Thai Health). Data were collected through focus group interviews using a semi-structured interview guide. Content analysis was conducted to analyze the data.

Results The findings revealed 3 main themes regarding pregnant women’s experiences and perspectives of food and health literacy promotion in the Southern Border Provinces, which are
1) Changes in nutritional behavior during pregnancy, 2) Comparing healthcare information from multiple sources, and 3) Challenges encountered when seeking food and health literacy during pregnancy.

Conclusions and Recommendations The findings suggest that promoting food and health literacy in the southern border provinces can succeed only if health-care providers adopt a more proactive communication style and actively involve families and communities. Equally important is offering economic support or recommending food choices that fit the local context and the resources available to women in their own communities.