The effect of educational intervention based on the theory of planned behavior on the incidence of urinary tract infection and its preventive behaviors in pregnant women referred to comprehensive health services centers in Rafsanjan

Considering the importance and role of education in the diseases prevention, especially infections, this study was designed and implemented with the aim of determining the effect of an educational intervention based on the theory of planned behavior on the incidence of urinary tract infections and its preventive behaviors in pregnant women in Rafsanjan.

The quasi -experimental study was conducted among 95 pregnant women in the first trimester in two groups (intervention 48 and control 47) by random cluster sampling method in 2021-22. The data collection tool was a researcher-made questionnaire based on the theory of planned behavior and urine culture test in two stages. The training program was conducted virtually through the WhatsApp social channel for one month, twice a week. Data analysis was done by SPSS version 20 software and independent t, paired t, chi-square and covariance analysis at a significance level of 0.05.

Covariance analysis showed a significant difference between the mean score of knowledge, attitude and behavior of the two groups three months after the intervention (p<0.05). Three months after the implementation of the educational program, the result of the urine culture test of three pregnant women in the control group was positive, while in the intervention group, no positive cases were observed (p=0.038).

The educational program had a significant effect on the incidence of urinary tract infections in pregnant women. However, due to the lack of impact on the constructs of subjective norms and perceived behavioral control, it is suggested that one of the most important members of the family be involved in intervention programs in future interventions.