Empowering Women Through Reproductive Health Education: A Pre-Experimental Study to Evaluate the Effectiveness of a Structured Educational Awareness Program on Knowledge Regarding Contraceptive Methods among Women in a Selected Community area in Gurgaon, Haryana.

Abstract

Background: Family planning is an essential component of reproductive health and contributes significantly to reducing maternal and infant mortality. Despite the availability of various contraceptive methods, many women continue to have inadequate knowledge due to misconceptions, cultural barriers, and limited access to health education. Educational awareness programs can play a vital role in improving women's understanding and acceptance of contraception.
Aim: To assess the effectiveness of an educational awareness program on knowledge regarding contraceptive methods among women.
Objectives:
1. To assess the pre-test knowledge regarding contraceptive methods among women.
2. To evaluate the effectiveness of an educational awareness program by comparing pre-test and post-test knowledge scores.
3. To determine the association between post-test knowledge scores and selected demographic variables.
Methodology: A quantitative, pre-experimental one-group pre-test post-test research design was adopted. Sixty women aged 18–45 years were selected using convenience sampling from the selected community. A structured knowledge questionnaire consisting of 30 multiple-choice questions was used for data collection. After the pre-test, an educational awareness program on contraceptive methods was conducted using PowerPoint presentations, charts, demonstrations, and group discussions. The post-test was conducted seven days after the intervention. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics.
Results: The mean pre-test knowledge score was 12.45 ± 3.18, while the mean post-test knowledge score increased to 24.38 ± 2.91. The calculated paired t-test value (t = 23.67, p < 0.001) indicated a statistically significant improvement in knowledge after the educational program. Educational status and previous exposure to family planning information showed a significant association with post-test knowledge scores.
Conclusion: The educational awareness program was highly effective in improving women's knowledge regarding contraceptive methods. Community-based educational interventions should be regularly organized to promote informed reproductive health decisions.