This randomized controlled trial aims to evaluate the effect of a Health Belief Model- and Self-Efficacy Theory-based childbirth preparation education on fear of childbirth, childbirth self-efficacy, birth preferences, and childbirth preparation behaviors among nulliparous pregnant women. Eligible nulliparous pregnant women between 28 and 32 weeks of gestation will be randomly assigned to either an intervention group or a control group. The intervention group will receive a structured childbirth preparation education program consisting of four sessions in addition to routine antenatal care, while the control group will receive routine antenatal care only. Data will be collected before the intervention, immediately after the intervention, during follow-up in late pregnancy, and after childbirth. The findings of this study may contribute to improving childbirth-related outcomes by reducing fear of childbirth and enhancing self-efficacy and preparedness for birth.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Purpose
PREVENTION
Masking
SINGLE
Enrollment
100
A four-session structured educational program designed to reduce fear of childbirth and improve childbirth self-efficacy, birth preferences, and childbirth preparation behaviors among nulliparous pregnant women.
Participants will receive routine antenatal care and standard pregnancy education services provided by the health institution. No structured childbirth preparation education based on the Health Belief Model or Self-Efficacy Theory will be provided.
Fear of Childbirth
Fear of childbirth will be assessed using the Wijma Delivery Expectancy/Experience Questionnaire Version A (W-DEQ A). Higher scores indicate higher levels of fear of childbirth.
Time frame: Baseline (28-32 weeks' gestation), immediately after completion of the intervention, and 4 weeks after the intervention (36-37 weeks' gestation).
Childbirth Self-Efficacy
Childbirth self-efficacy will be assessed using the Childbirth Self-Efficacy Inventory Short Form (CBSEI-C32). Higher scores indicate higher levels of childbirth self-efficacy.
Time frame: Baseline (28-32 weeks' gestation), immediately after completion of the intervention, and 4 weeks after the intervention (36-37 weeks' gestation).
Birth Preference
Birth preference will be assessed using the Pregnant Women's Preferences for Mode of Delivery Questionnaire. Higher scores indicate a stronger preference for vaginal birth.
Time frame: Baseline, immediately after the intervention, and 4 weeks after the intervention (36-37 weeks' gestation)
Childbirth Preparation Behaviors
Childbirth preparation behaviors will be assessed using the Childbirth Preparation Behavior Form developed by the researchers. The questionnaire evaluates the extent to which pregnant women engage in behaviors to prepare for childbirth. Higher scores indicate better childbirth preparation behaviors.
Time frame: Baseline (28-32 weeks' gestation), immediately after completion of the intervention, and 4 weeks after the intervention (36-37 weeks' gestation).
Actual Mode of Delivery
Actual mode of delivery will be recorded using the Birth Record Form and categorized as vaginal birth or cesarean birth.
Time frame: At the time of childbirth.
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