Authors : Marvel Hinson; Nancy Akyea-Mensah; Diana Adebesah; Manasseh Komla Amu

Volume/Issue : Volume 11 - 2026, Issue 5 - May

Google Scholar : https://tinyurl.com/yr3xtxwt

Scribd : https://tinyurl.com/mwsx95u6

DOI : https://doi.org/10.38124/ijisrt/26May431

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Abstract : Background: Maternal nutrition during the first trimester significantly influences fetal development and pregnancy outcomes. However, various physiological, cultural and socioeconomic factors affect dietary patterns during early pregnancy in subSaharan Africa. We explored the dietary habits, influencing factors and nutritional challenges faced by pregnant women during their first trimester in Ghana.  Methods: A descriptive phenomenological study was conducted at Cape Coast Metro Hospital, Ghana. Twelve pregnant women aged 24-38 years in their first trimester (7-11 weeks gestation) were purposively sampled from those attending antenatal care. Data were collected through semi-structured in-depth interviews and analyzed using Braun and Clarke's thematic analysis framework. Ethical approval was obtained from Cape Coast Metro Hospital Research Ethics Committee.  Results: Three major themes emerged: dietary patterns, cultural and social influences and nutritional barriers. Women predominantly consumed light, easily digestible foods with small, frequent meals to manage nausea. Cultural beliefs and food taboos strongly influenced choices - all 12 participants were aware of traditional food restrictions, with 9 actively avoiding snails, crabs and certain meats believed to cause fetal birthmarks. Family members, particularly spouses and elders, actively guided dietary decisions in all cases. Physical symptoms, particularly morning sickness (affecting all participants), emotional stress, financial constraints (8/12 participants), and seasonal food availability created substantial barriers to optimal nutrition. Traditional herbal beverages including ginger tea and sobolo were widely used for symptom management.  Conclusion: First-trimester nutrition in Ghana reflects a complex interplay of physiological symptoms, deep-rooted cultural practices, family dynamics and socioeconomic constraints. Effective interventions must integrate culturally sensitive counseling, family education, social support programmes addressing food access and multisectoral collaboration to improve seasonal availability of nutritious foods.

Keywords : Pregnancy, First Trimester, Dietary Habits, Cultural Beliefs, Ghana, Maternal Nutrition, Qualitative Research.

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