Behavior Change in Perinatal Care Practices in Nepal
Author Information
Author(s): Wade Angie, Osrin David, Shrestha Bhim Prasad, Sen Aman, Morrison Joanna, Tumbahangphe Kirti Man, Manandhar Dharma S, de L Costello Anthony M
Primary Institution: Institute of Child Health, University College London
Hypothesis
The study aims to determine the mechanisms via which a women's group intervention affects perinatal care practices among rural women.
Conclusion
Women's groups significantly improved perinatal care behaviors among women who were not previously following good practices.
Supporting Evidence
- Women in intervention areas were significantly more likely to adopt good practices for antenatal care and newborn care.
- The intervention led to a 30% reduction in neonatal mortality and a 78% reduction in maternal mortality.
- Women attending groups showed a greater tendency to improve their practices compared to non-attendees.
Takeaway
Women in rural Nepal who joined women's groups learned better ways to take care of themselves and their babies during pregnancy and childbirth.
Methodology
A randomized controlled trial with 12 intervention clusters and 12 control clusters, analyzing changes in perinatal care practices among women who had been pregnant before the trial.
Potential Biases
The study may not account for all demographic variations affecting behavior change.
Limitations
The results may not be generalizable to women whose first pregnancy occurred during the trial.
Participant Demographics
Married women of reproductive age (15–49 years) living in rural Nepal.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Confidence Interval
(1.82, 2.27)
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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