"Effectiveness of a Planned Teaching Program on Knowledge Regarding Antenatal Exercises Among Antenatal Mothers in Selected Hospitals of Jabalpur"

Abstract

Background: Pregnancy is a unique physiological state in a woman’s life, requiring careful attention to both maternal and fetal health. Antenatal exercises are recognized as safe and beneficial, improving maternal comfort, circulation, and psychological well-being, while preparing the body for labor and recovery. However, many antenatal mothers lack adequate knowledge of these practices due to myths, cultural taboos, or insufficient health education.

Aim: The study aimed to assess the effectiveness of a planned teaching program on antenatal exercises among antenatal mothers attending selected hospitals of Jabalpur.

Methods: A pre-experimental one-group pre-test–post-test design was adopted. Sixty antenatal mothers were selected through purposive sampling. Data were collected using a structured knowledge questionnaire. After the pre-test, a planned teaching program on antenatal exercises was administered, followed by a post-test after 7 days. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize the data, while paired t-test and chi-square test were applied for inferential analysis.

Results: The mean pre-test knowledge score was 12.3 ± 3.5 (out of 25), reflecting inadequate baseline knowledge. The mean post-test knowledge score increased significantly to 20.8 ± 2.9, indicating substantial improvement after the intervention. A significant association was observed between knowledge scores and demographic variables such as education and gravida.

Conclusion: The findings revealed that the planned teaching program was highly effective in enhancing the knowledge of antenatal mothers regarding antenatal exercises. Structured educational interventions should be integrated into routine antenatal care to improve pregnancy outcomes, maternal well-being, and awareness regarding safe antenatal practices