Effectiveness of a Structured Teaching Program on Iron Supplementation Awareness during the Antenatal Period Among Pregnant Women in Vadodara City, Gujarat

Author Name: 1. Dipika Rathod, 2. Dr. (Prof.) Vijay Singh Rawat

Volume/Issue: 04/08

Country: India

DOI NO.: 08.2020-25662434 DOI Link: https://doi-ds.org/doilink/11.2025-72379313/UIJIR

Affiliation:

1. Ph.D Scholar, Venkteshwar College of Nursing, Sai Tirupati University, Udaipur, Rajasthan, India
2. Research Supervisor/ Principal, Venkteshwar College of Nursing, Sai Tirupati University, Udaipur, Rajasthan, India

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Iron deficiency anemia remains a leading cause of maternal morbidity in India. Despite theavailability of government-sponsored iron supplementation programs, adherence and awareness remain suboptimal. To evaluate the ef ectiveness of a structured teaching program in improving awareness regardingiron supplementation among pregnant women during the antenatal period. METHOD: A quasi-experimental study with a pre-test/post-test design was conducted among 100 pregnant women attending antenatal clinics in Vadodara. A validated questionnaire assessed knowledgebefore and after a structured teaching intervention. Data were analyzed using paired t-tests anddescriptive statistics. RESULTS: Pre-test scores indicated low baseline awareness (mean = 8.4 ± 2.1 out of 15). Post-interventionscores significantly improved (mean = 13.2 ± 1.6, p < 0.001). The greatest gains were observedinunderstanding dosage, side ef ects, and dietary enhancers. Education level and parity weresignificantly associated with knowledge improvement. INTERPRETATION AND CONCLUSION: Structured teaching significantly enhanced awareness of iron supplementation during pregnancy. Integrating such modules into routine antenatal care may improve maternal outcomes.

Key words: Iron supplementation, antenatal care, health education, maternal anemia, Vadodara, Gujarat.