Effect of Group Antenatal Care on Breastfeeding Knowledge and Practices Among Pregnant Women in Ghana: Findings from a Cluster-Randomized Controlled Trial

The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months after birth to ensure child health and survival. Antenatal care provides an opportunity to educate pregnant women on optimal breastfeeding practices. A cluster-randomized control trial in Ghana examined the impact of group antenatal care on breastfeeding knowledge and practice. The study enrolled 1761 pregnant women from 14 health facilities in Ghana. The intervention group (<i>n</i> = 877) received eight group sessions, while the control group (<i>n</i> = 884) received individual, routine care. Data were collected at baseline and post intervention. Pearson's chi-square test was performed to examine categorical data, while odds ratios were calculated using separate logistic regression models to examine differences between the intervention and control groups over time. Women enrolled in group antenatal care had higher odds of following WHO recommendations to exclusively breastfeed for the first six months (odds ratio [OR]: 3.6, 95% confidence interval [95% CI]: 2.1, 6.3) and waiting to introduce solid food until six months of age (OR: 3.1, 95% CI: 1.5, 6.9). Our results found that women who participated in group antenatal care were more likely to follow the recommendations for exclusive breastfeeding developed by the WHO.