Effectiveness of Community-Based Nutrition Education on Weight Gain of Pregnant Women in the Second Trimester: A Quasi-Experimental Study

Abstract

Pregnancy is a critical period that requires optimal nutrition to support maternal health and fetal growth. However, many pregnant women's dietary practices often fall short of nutritional recommendations, putting them at risk for health problems and pregnancy outcomes. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of community-based nutrition education in improving the nutritional status and weight gain of pregnant women in the second trimester. This study used a quasi-experimental design with a pre-test and post-test control group approach. The study sample consisted of second-trimester pregnant women selected purposively. The intervention consisted of structured nutrition education through lectures, discussions, and mentoring by health workers using a behavioral theory approach. Data were collected through knowledge questionnaires, 24-hour dietary recalls, and anthropometric measurements, and analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. The results showed that the intervention group experienced greater weight gain (4.31 ± 3.04 kg) compared to the control group (1.41 ± 2.25 kg). Furthermore, there was an increase in nutritional knowledge and improved consumption patterns in the intervention group. This study shows that community-based nutrition education is effective in improving the nutritional status of pregnant women through changes in consumption behavior. This model has the potential to be an applicable strategy in obstetric services to improve maternal health and prevent the risk of pregnancy complications.