Enhancing Parental Confidence and Security Through the Online Prenatal Education Babydax

Abstract Background The COVID-19 pandemic created a demand for online prenatal preparation due to the suspension of in-person classes and reduced access to public services. In response, a multidisciplinary team at Folkhälsan, a Finnish NGO, developed Babydax in 2020 - an online, free prenatal education program designed to complement public maternity services. Between 2020 and 2025, 5134 participants enrolled, covering approximately 60% of Swedish-speaking first-time parents in Finland. Objectives Babydax aims to enhance expecting parents’ sense of security, increase their knowledge of childbirth and early parenting, and boost confidence in their future parenting role. The course includes five two-hour live online sessions, combining theoretical content with practical exercises and interactive elements. Parents are also supported by a course booklet and supplementary materials accessible via a digital platform. This study evaluated whether Babydax improved participants’ knowledge of childbirth and responsive parenting and strengthened their sense of security and parental confidence. Results Survey data collected between 2020 and 2025 showed a significant increase in participants’ self-reported sense of security, rising from a mean score of 5.5 to 7.1 on a 10-point scale. The majority, 99%, reported increased knowledge about childbirth, 93% gained improved understanding of secure attachment and responsive parenting, and 95% greater confidence in their future parenting role. Overall course satisfaction was high, with an average rating of 9.5/10 and a Net Promoter Score (NPS) of 88, indicating contentment and perceived benefit. Conclusions Babydax effectively enhances parental preparedness and emotional security, demonstrating considerable public health impact. Its virtual, interactive format and integration with existing maternity services offer a scalable model that can be adapted by other countries aiming to strengthen family support within healthcare systems. Key messages • Online prenatal education enhances parental confidence and knowledge and contributes to better public health outcomes. • Babydax is an effective and scalable model for strengthening prenatal services.