Nutritional care in pregnancy: the patient's view. II. Perceptions, satisfaction, and response to dietary advice and treatment.

Ninety-two pregnant women attending the out-patient clinic of a major obstetrical teaching hospital were interviewed. Information on their perception of diet during pregnancy, response to dietary advice, and satisfaction with the type and amount of dietary information given was collected. Almost all subjects considered diet to be important during pregnancy. Prenatal dietary advice was perceived as somewhat restrictive, and for approximately a third of the subjects, compliance with dietary advice was a serious concern. Most subjects indicated making some dietary changes during pregnancy, usually as a result of the advice received. Poor compliance was reported with iron supplementation, and many of the women attributed adverse symptoms to this medication. Subjects appeared more satisfied with the amount than the type of dietary advice received, and negative or noncommittal attitudes toward nutrition services were expressed by half of the subjects. Feeling of guilt, attitudes of other professionals, and perceived difficulties of complying with dietary instructions were the major reasons given for these negative feelings. Rescheduling and better integration of nutrition services in the prenatal visit are suggested to improve patient satisfaction with dietary counseling.