Group Antenatal Care and Breastfeeding in Ghana
Author Information
Author(s): Lanyo Theresa Norpeli, Williams John, Ghosh Bidisha, Apetorgbor Veronica E. A., Kukula Vida A., Zielinski Ruth, Awini Elizabeth, Moyer Cheryl, Lori Jody R.
Primary Institution: University of Michigan School of Nursing
Hypothesis
Does group antenatal care improve breastfeeding knowledge and practices among pregnant women in Ghana?
Conclusion
Group antenatal care significantly improved breastfeeding knowledge and practices among women in Ghana.
Supporting Evidence
- Women in group antenatal care had higher odds of exclusively breastfeeding for the first six months.
- Group sessions improved knowledge about when to introduce solid foods.
- Participants reported better breastfeeding practices compared to those receiving individual care.
Takeaway
This study shows that when pregnant women attend group sessions instead of individual check-ups, they learn more about breastfeeding and are more likely to do it right.
Methodology
A cluster-randomized controlled trial with 1761 pregnant women from 14 health facilities in Ghana, comparing group antenatal care to individual care.
Potential Biases
Potential selection bias due to purposive sampling at study sites.
Limitations
Participants were not blinded, and the study only followed up to 14 months postpartum.
Participant Demographics
Majority aged 25-34, 10% tertiary education, 93% Christian.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.0001
Confidence Interval
95% CI: 2.1, 6.3
Statistical Significance
p<0.0001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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