Effectiveness of Motivational Interviewing and cross platform messaging application in improving oral health knowledge, attitude, and behaviours among pregnant women- A Randomized Controlled Trial

Abstract Background: Body goes through significant hormonal and physiological changes during pregnancy, which could be linked to changes in oral health. Many women are unaware of the negative consequences of poor dental health during and after pregnancy, both for themselves and their children. Therefore, this study aimed to the effectiveness of Motivational Interviewing (MI) and cross platform messaging application (WhatsApp messenger) for oral health education on the oral health knowledge, attitude and behaviours among pregnant women attending ante natal care. Methods: A randomized controlled trial was conducted among 84 pregnant women. Simple random sampling was employed to select participants after oral examination. Participants were randomly allocated to two groups (Group 1: Cross-platform messaging application [WhatsApp]; Group 2: Motivational Interviewing) using a lottery method. Pregnant women aged 18 years and older, gestational age between 8 and 30 weeks were included. A face-to-face interview and oral examination were conducted to assess baseline knowledge and oral hygiene status. A follow-up examination was conducted after one month of intervention. Inferential statistics, including the chi-square test and independent t-test, were used to compare variables between the two groups. Results: The mean knowledge score at baseline was comparable between Group 1 (WhatsApp) and Group 2 (Motivational Interviewing). However, post-intervention, Group 2 showed a significantly higher mean knowledge score compared to Group 1. Post-intervention, Group 2 exhibited a significantly better oral hygiene status compared to Group 1. A significant improvement in oral health behaviours, such as regular tooth brushing and dental check-ups, was observed in Group 2 compared to Group 1 (p < 0.001). Conclusion: The findings suggested that while both interventions were effective, Motivational Interviewing showed superior results in improving knowledge, oral hygiene status, and oral health behaviours. The personalized and client-centred approach of Motivational Interviewing enables participants to explore and resolve ambivalence, promoting a deeper understanding of the importance of oral health during pregnancy. Trial registration: Trial was prospectively registered in Clinical Trial Registry of India with reference number CTRI/2021/09/036407 https://ctri.nic.in/Clinicaltrials/pmaindet2.php?EncHid=NTAyNjU=&Enc=&userName on 10/09/2021.