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Preventive
Arun Mamachan Xavier, BDS, MDS, MFDS RCS (Edin)
Ph.D Scholar
Amrita School of Dentistry, Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham University
Amrita School of Dentistry
Ernakulam, Kerala, India
Balagopal R Varma, BDS, MDS, MRACDS (Paed)
Principal & Head of the Department
Amrita School of Dentistry, Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham University
Cochin, Kerala, India
Purpose: Pregnancy is a transformative phase, with women prioritizing their child's well-being. Oral health care improves maternal health, reduces birth risks, and lowers early childhood caries. Stronger maternal-fetal attachment enhances pregnancy outcomes and infant development. Postnatal depression is common, particularly in developing countries, where psychological issues are often overlooked. The study aims to assess the impact of a maternal behavioral change communication (BCC) intervention on oral well-being, maternal-fetal attachment (MFA), and pregnancy outcomes.
Methods: In a randomized controlled trial, pregnant women (n=450) were recruited (12th–20th gestational week). After baseline assessment of maternal oral health knowledge, caries risk, and index, randomization created two test groups and one control group (n=150 each). Test groups received tailored videos and e-resources on MFA and oral health, while the control group received pamphlets with relevant health information. Outcome measures were assessed up to six months post-delivery and analyzed statistically (p < .05).
Results: Analysis revealed a uniformly higher Prenatal and Postnatal MFA scores among test group participants (p >.05) and a significant intergroup difference (p < .05) in dental service uptake with only 12% in control group. Group 2 participants in third trimester showed reduced caries risk, better oral care knowledge, and attitudes, with 88% recognizing the importance of regular oral health examinations. Education level was statistically associated with prenatal dental care knowledge (p=.014).
Conclusions: The prenatal Maternal BCC intervention enhanced the holistic wellness of mother-infant dyads by improving MFA and oral health knowledge, with a strong association between maternal prenatal attachment and optimal care.
Identify Supporting Agency and Grant Number:
Research supported by the Department of Health Research (DHR), Indian Council of Medical Research: Grant-in-Aid scheme with Grant ID R.11015/15/23-GIA/HR.