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Abstract
The purpose of this study was to determine whether women experiencing their first pregnancy differ from women who have given birth previously in their health knowledge, their need for pregnancy-related health information, and their preferences for classes on particular topics related to pregnancy and infant health. Subjects were 75 new enrollees in the WIC program (Supplemental Food Program for Women, Infants and Children) in Montana.
As predicted, women who had given birth previously were more knowledgable, but only about birth control, return of fertility, and infant feeding. Women pregnant for the first time indicated a greater need than their more experienced counterparts for information on childbirth, infant feeding, and baby care. Consistent with their identified needs, they indicated strong interest in classes on these topics.
These results suggest that previous pregnancy experience does not substantially alter womens' knowledge of appropriate pregnancy health practices. All women need up-to-date health information covering a wide variety of issues. For women experiencing their first pregnancy, more emphasis should be placed on the topics of childbirth, infant care, and infant feeding. For women with previous childbearing experience, prenatal curricula may need to be expanded to meet their needs and improve interest.