The Relationship Between the Role of Educators and the Level of Knowledge of Mothers During The Postpartum Period

Abstract

The postpartum period is a crucial phase in the health cycle of mothers and babies, requiring adequate knowledge to support maternal recovery, prevent complications, and care for newborns. Health workers, particularly midwives, play a key role as educators in enhancing mothers' knowledge during this period. However, the effectiveness of healthcare educators in improving the knowledge of postpartum mothers has shown mixed results. This study aimed to analyze the relationship between the role of healthcare educators and the level of knowledge of mothers during the postpartum period. A quantitative observational analytical design with a cross-sectional approach was used. The study sample consisted of 30 postpartum mothers selected through purposive sampling. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire that measured mothers' perceptions of educators' roles and their knowledge of postpartum and newborn care. Data analysis was conducted univariately to describe respondent characteristics and bivariately using the Spearman's Rho correlation test. The results showed that most respondents rated educators' roles as fair to good, while the level of knowledge of postpartum mothers was mostly fair to poor. The Spearman's Rho test revealed a p-value of 0.125 and a correlation coefficient of r = 0.286, indicating no statistically significant relationship, although a weak positive correlation was observed. This study concludes that increasing postpartum mothers' knowledge is influenced not only by the role of health educators but also by other factors such as education, experience, and access to information. A more comprehensive and integrated approach to postpartum education is necessary.