Evaluation of an instructional program on Primigravida women’s knowledge about exclusive breastfeeding

Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness of an instructional program on improving knowledge about exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) among primigravida women in primary healthcare centres. Methods: A quasi-experimental study (one-group pretest-post-test design) was conducted from October 1, 2024, to January 1, 2025. A purposive sample of 60 primigravida women attending a primary health centre in Iraq was recruited. Participants completed a validated questionnaire assessing EBF knowledge before and after a structured instructional program. The program consisted of a single 45-minute session using lectures and visual aids. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and a paired samples t-test. Results: A significant improvement in mean knowledge scores was observed post-intervention (67.4 ± 3.4) compared to pre-intervention (42.1 ± 8.7), with a mean difference of 25.3 points (t(59) = 25.12, p < 0.001). High post-test knowledge was noted regarding the definition of EBF (95%), the sufficiency of breastmilk (95%), and the initiation of breastfeeding (88.3%). However, knowledge regarding EBF's protective effects against sudden infant death syndrome (46.7% "I know") and acute otitis media (50% "I know") remained moderate. No significant associations were found between post-test knowledge scores and demographic characteristics (age, education, occupation, residence; p > 0.05). Conclusion: The instructional program significantly improved knowledge of EBF among primigravida women. Integrating such structured educational sessions into routine antenatal care at primary health centres is recommended to promote EBF practices.