Publication:

Effectiveness of an educational intervention on knowledge of postnatal exercises among antenatal mothers

Background Postnatal exercises are important for maternal recovery after childbirth, supporting physical and psychological well-being and reducing postpartum complications. However, many antenatal mothers have limited awareness and practice of these exercises. Early educational interventions during the antenatal period can improve understanding and promote healthy postnatal practices.

Methods A pre-experimental one-group pre-test post-test study was conducted among 60 antenatal mothers in a tertiary care hospital using a non-probability sampling technique. Knowledge was assessed before and after an educational intervention using a validated questionnaire. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics, including the paired t-test and chi-square test.

Results Knowledge scores improved from 6.93±2.99 in the pre-test to 12.67±3.41 in the post-test, showing a statistically significant difference (t=16.23, p<0.001). No significant association was found between baseline knowledge and selected demographic variables.

Conclusions The findings indicate that the educational intervention effectively enhanced understanding of postnatal exercises among antenatal mothers. Including such sessions in routine antenatal care may support better maternal outcomes.