Healthcare providers’ educational role and Saudi pregnant women’s knowledge of active labor signs: a cross-sectional correlational study

Identifying the indicators of active labor is crucial for timely intervention, enhancing care focused on women, and minimizing unnecessary hospital admissions during the early stages of labor. This research aimed to evaluate the relationship between the educational role of healthcare providers and the knowledge of active labor signs among pregnant Saudi women. A descriptive cross-sectional correlational study was conducted at the Obstetrics and Gynecology Outpatient Department of King Abdulaziz Medical City in Jeddah. A convenience sample of 399 pregnant Saudi women completed a structured questionnaire. Over half of the participants (57.4%) were aged 26-35. Almost all respondents (97.7%) accurately identified cervical dilatation, and 95.5% recognized regular severe abdominal or back pain as signs of active labor. Family, friends, and online platforms were the most frequently cited sources of information (22.2% and 22.1%, respectively). The majority of participants (96%) felt comfortable inquiring about labor signs with healthcare providers, and 71.9% rated communication with providers as effective or very effective. Women showed a good understanding of active labor signs and felt comfortable communicating with healthcare providers. However, informal sources are still prevalent, underscoring the need for structured, provider-led education. It is recommended to incorporate targeted health education programs into routine antenatal visits to improve accurate knowledge and reduce reliance on non-professional sources.