Effect of a Comprehensive Perinatal Education Program on Maternal Outcomes in Primigravida Mothers

Antenatal care is essential for ensuring a healthy pregnancy, especially in first-time mothers (primigravida) who may experience greater uncertainty and risks. The present study aimed to evaluate the effect of a perinatal education program on maternal outcomes among primigravida mothers. A total of 144 primigravida mothers attending the antenatal outpatient department at a tertiary care hospital were enrolled. The intervention group (n = 72) received perinatal education covering antenatal care (diet, hygiene, exercise, and relaxation), intranatal guidance (back massage, breathing techniques, and labor expectations), and postnatal education (breastfeeding, newborn care, maternal health, and family planning) in seven sessions. The control group (n = 72) received routine care. Maternal outcomes were assessed throughout pregnancy, during labor, and postpartum, and data were analyzed using appropriate parametric and nonparametric statistical tests. The posttest knowledge scores were significantly higher (t = 20.59, p < .001) in the intervention group (33.9 ± 2.5) than the control group (21.2 ± 4.6). The intervention group had lower stress scores and a higher rate of normal vaginal births compared with the control group. The intervention group showed a significantly shorter duration of labor in the second and third stages, increased placental weights, and lower blood loss during birth (p < .001 for all). The perinatal education program significantly improved maternal knowledge and outcomes in primigravida mothers, including higher rates of normal vaginal birth, shorter labor duration, reduced blood loss, and fewer complications. These findings support integrating structured perinatal education into routine antenatal care to enhance maternal knowledge and clinical parameters and improve overall pregnancy outcomes.