Barriers to Maternal Nutritional Intake and Their Impact on Stunting: A Qualitative Study in Cirebon, Indonesia

Yeni Fitrianingsih Yeni Fitrianingsih, Suratmi Suratmi Suratmi, Nina Nirmaya Mariani Nirmaya Mariani, Priyo Sulistiyono Sulistiyono, Rahmani Azzahra Rahmani Azzahra

Abstract


Background: Pregnant women’s nutritional intake is strongly influenced by family income, and inadequate nutrition during pregnancy affects fetal health and development. Chronic malnutrition contributes to stunting, which significantly impairs physical growth, cognitive ability, and future economic productivity.

Objective: This study aimed to explore the obstacles to fulfilling pregnant women’s nutritional intake in stunting-prone areas and to identify potential solutions to address nutritional deficiencies.

Methods: A qualitative study was conducted in Kalijaga Village, Cirebon City, involving 10 pregnant women in their second and third trimesters who experienced chronic energy deficiency and anemia. Data were collected through in-depth interviews and focus group discussions facilitated by the research team. Thematic analysis supported by NVivo software was used for data processing. This study was approved by the Health Research Ethics Committee of Poltekkes Kemenkes Tasikmalaya (Approval No. DP.04.03/F.XVIII.20/KEPK/1069/2025). All participants were informed about the objectives and procedures of the study, and written informed consent was obtained prior to participation.

Results: Economic constraints were found to be the dominant barrier to adequate maternal nutrition. In addition, unfavorable cultural traditions and early marriage contributed to poor dietary intake among pregnant women. While mothers demonstrated relatively good nutritional awareness, the quality of health education delivered by health workers remained suboptimal.


Keywords


Maternal Nutrition Disorders, Pregnant Women, Stunting, Growth Disorders, Socioeconomic Factors, Culture

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DOI: https://doi.org/10.33992/icmahs.v3i1.4576

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