BACKGROUND:
Pregnancy is a unique period marked by significant changes and an increased need for information and support (Howard et al., 2014). Educational interventions can improve emotional preparedness, reduce anxiety, and strengthen confidence (Ayers et al., 2021). As psychological well-being becomes central in perinatal care, antenatal education is expected to address mental health and trauma prevention alongside physical preparation (WHO, 2022). However, standardized and psychologically informed programs remain limited in many countries, including Lithuania (Riklikienė et al., 2023; Benyamini et al., 2024).

OBJECTIVES:
To evaluate the feasibility and effectiveness of an antenatal educational program.

METHODS:
This ongoing quasi-experimental study includes an intervention and a control group. Pregnant women in their third trimester are invited to participate. The intervention group attends an eight-session educational program, while the control group receives standard antenatal care. Sessions cover physical and emotional changes in late pregnancy, preparation for childbirth and the postpartum period, newborn care, breastfeeding, and psychological support. The psychological component focuses on building realistic expectations, managing stress, and reducing fear of childbirth. Data are collected at four time points (T0–T3) using validated self-report instruments. Ethical approval was obtained (No. BE-2-82), and informed consent was provided by all participants.

RESULTS:
Preliminary feedback highlights the program’s value in providing structured information, emotional support, and increased confidence. Participants also noted the need for more in-depth content, flexible delivery formats, and practical tools. Data on the program’s effectiveness in improving psychological well-being and pregnancy-related satisfaction are being analyzed and will be presented at the conference.

CONCLUSIONS:
This antenatal educational program shows promising effects in enhancing women’s preparedness for childbirth and early motherhood. Preliminary feedback indicates that such programs play a key role in helping women manage expectations, reduce anxiety, and build confidence.

KEY MESSAGE:
A structured antenatal educational program can effectively support women’s mental health, reduce anxiety, and enhance preparedness for childbirth and motherhood. Poster session 2 (Group A)