Author ORCID Identifier
0009-0001-1686-9208
Abstract
Maternal and infant health in the U.S. has worsened, with rising rates of maternal mortality, gestational diabetes, postpartum depression, and infant mortality. Prenatal education is a proven strategy to improve outcomes, yet many expecting parents rely on unvetted information or lack access to reliable resources. To address this gap, a pilot prenatal education program was implemented through Utah State University Extension to improve knowledge, attitudes, and intentions related to breastfeeding, nutrition, mental health, and other key topics. The program consisted of 3 1-hour, evidence-based workshops incorporating lectures and interactive activities. A retrospective pre-post survey was completed by 28 pregnant participants to assess changes in knowledge, behavioral intentions, and satisfaction. Data analysis included descriptive statistics, paired t-tests, and effect size calculations. Participants showed statistically significant gains (p < 0.05) in knowledge across all topics, with large- to very-large effect sizes (Cohen’s d > 0.8). Most participants also reported strong intentions to adopt recommended health behaviors. Findings suggest Extension is a trusted and effective source of prenatal education. Future research is needed to assess long-term behavior change and sustained impact.
Recommended Citation
Hunt, A. T.,
Dyckman, J.,
&
Cox, K.
(2026). Evaluating the Impact of a Community-Based Prenatal Education Program on Maternal Knowledge and Intentions in Utah.
Journal of Human Sciences and Extension, 14(1), 15.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.55533/2325-5226.1610
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