Impact of Health Literacy Intervention on Self-efficacy and Prenatal Care

Health literacy is applied on social cognitive skills that determine motivation and capability of individuals in achievement, perception, and using information in such a way that leads in preservation and promotion of their health. Current research was conducted aiming at determining impact of health literacy intervention in pregnant women on self-efficacy and prenatal care. Methods: It is an experimental study carried out on 90 pregnant women (45 per groups) living in Iran. Multistage random sampling method was used. Educational intervention based on health literacy and empowerment of pregnant women was carried out within one month in group and individual manner in case group. Data collection tool included maternal health literacy survey (MHLAP) and self-efficacy of pregnant women survey. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 18 software and independent t-test, pair wise t-test, and chi-square test. The significance level was considered < 0.5. Results: Unlike control group, significant difference was observed in average health literacy, self-efficacy, and prenatal care behaviours after educational intervention in intervention group (p < 0.001). Average health literacy, self-efficacy, and prenatal care behaviours increased to 21.62, 22.21, and 9.13 percent, respectively, in case group compared to before intervention. Conclusion: Strategies of health literacy promotion should be developed in order to promote health literacy and thus self-efficacy and prenatal care.