Effect of an Instructional Antenatal Care Program on Knowledge Enhancement among Primigravida Women

Objective: To evaluate the effect of an instructional antenatal care program on knowledge enhancement among primigravida women. Study Design: A quasi-experimental studyPlace and Duration of Study: This study was conducted at the Al-Hindiya Teaching Hospital and the Obstetrics and Gynecology Teaching Hospital in Karbala from 1st June 2025 to 30th November 2025. Methods: A total of 150 primigravida women were purposively assigned to a study group (n=75), which received a structured instructional program, and a control group (n=75), which received routine care. Results: Pre-intervention, the majority of participants in both groups had low knowledge (study group: 85.3%, control group: 86.7%), with no significant difference between groups (p=0.551). Post-intervention, 81.3% of the study group achieved high knowledge levels compared to 0% in the control group. The study group’s mean knowledge score increased significantly from 25.97±8.08 to 36.42±11.25 (p<0.001, Cohen’s d =1.00), whereas the control group remained unchanged. Repeated measures ANOVA showed a significant time × group interaction (F=113.99, p<0.001, η2=0.44), confirming the program’s effect. Conclusion: The instructional antenatal care program significantly improved knowledge among primigravida women. Incorporating structured instructional sessions into routine antenatal care is recommended to enhance maternal knowledge and promote safe pregnancy practices.