The Exploration of Antenatal Education Method and its Problems in Denpasar Regency, Indonesia, A Qualitative Study

BACKGROUND: Antenatal education is a process giving health information to pregnant women as a part of antenatal care. Antenatal education influences knowledge and behavior which indirectly give impact to the health of mothers and children. In implementing several antenatal education methods, several countries have experienced some obstacles. AIM: The present study aimed to explore the implementation and problems of antenatal education in Denpasar Bali. METHODS: Descriptive qualitative exploration design was used in the study. The respondents were ten midwives in primary health-care clinics and private midwifery clinics in all districts of Denpasar city. The sample was selected using purposive sampling. Data analysis was using thematic approach by QSR Nvivo 12 Plus. RESULTS: The result of this study found two main themes; those were maternity class method and individual/ face to face method. Midwives reported that on maternity class method the delivered information was felt more complete since it was in accordance with curriculum, pregnant women could hare with each other, and they could integrate with other professions. However, its weakness was low participation of pregnant women due to busyness. Meanwhile, face-to-face method had advantages since pregnant women felt free to express their personal problems and midwives could offer solutions for the identified problems during antenatal visits. Nevertheless, it has many disadvantages such as, very limited information was provided, problem with human resource management, time management, and pregnant women visitation management. CONCLUSION: In conclusion, both of antenatal education methods have advantages and disadvantges. Maternity class method is considered as a better method yet pregnant women participation to the class is relatively low. Face-to-face method is considered not comprehensive in delivering antenatal information as its problem with time management, human resource management, and patient management.