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The low level of knowledge and attitudes of mothers regarding the use of the KIA handbook is due to their suboptimal use. Many mothers view the KIA handbook as merely a record of routine checkups, thus failing to understand the information it contains. This study aims to identify factors influencing the utilization of the Maternal and Child Health (KIA) handbook among mothers with toddlers in the Kwala Bekala Community Health Center (Puskesmas), Medan, Johor, in 2025. The study used an observational analytical method with a cross-sectional approach. The sample consisted of 45 mothers of toddlers living in the area. The sampling technique used was multistage sampling, conducted in stages to obtain appropriate respondents. The results showed that 62.2% of the utilization of the KIA handbook was influenced by mothers' attitudes, particularly regarding the implementation of the immunization program for pregnant women. The more positive the mother's attitude toward immunization, the greater the support of her husband's involvement in the process. The direction of the relationship found in this study was positive. Several factors that may influence mothers' attitudes toward the use of the KIA handbook include the number of children (the majority have one child (51.1%), the mother's education level (the highest is elementary school level at 19.42%), and the mother's occupation (the most common being a housewife at 30.66%). The use of the KIA handbook is classified as good at 62.2%, and the mother's attitude toward immunization during pregnancy shows a positive attitude at 75.6%.  

Stunting remains a chronic nutritional issue and a significant public health challenge in Indonesia, particularly in rural areas such as Jurang Village, Temanggung Regency. One of the key contributing factors to the high prevalence of stunting is the low level of maternal knowledge regarding balanced nutrition and the appropriate practice of providing supplementary feeding (Pemberian Makanan Tambahan or PMT) for children under five. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of PMT menu leaflet media as a tool to increase mothers’ knowledge and awareness regarding stunting prevention. The research was conducted through a series of community-based surveys during Posyandu (integrated health post) activities across several neighborhood units (Rukun Warga or RW). These surveys identified cases of stunting and assessed the educational needs of mothers with young children. Based on the findings, a culturally and contextually adapted leaflet was developed, containing essential information about stunting, its early signs, the importance of PMT, and practical, nutritious recipes made from locally available ingredients. To expand accessibility, the leaflet also included a QR code linked to a digital e-book featuring 54 variations of PMT menus. The educational materials were distributed through door-to-door visits, accompanied by the direct provision of supplementary food, enabling immediate practice of the knowledge shared. Post-intervention results showed a significant improvement in maternal understanding of stunting and nutrition, as well as positive feedback regarding the clarity, relevance, and usefulness of the leaflet. The culturally tailored approach and integration of digital resources further enhanced engagement and knowledge retention. In conclusion, the PMT leaflet proved to be an effective, practical, low-cost, and replicable educational intervention to support community-based stunting prevention efforts in Jurang Village. This approach offers a promising model for similar rural areas facing high stunting rates across Indonesia.

Maternal anxiety during the childbirth process is a common psychological condition that can potentially increase the risk of complications, prolong labor, and reduce the likelihood of a positive birthing experience. High anxiety levels in mothers may interfere with the effectiveness of labor, impact maternal and fetal well-being, and lead to increased medical interventions. One of the most important support systems during labor is the presence and active involvement of the husband. The husband’s role is not only limited to being present but also includes providing emotional, physical, and motivational support to the mother. Recognizing the importance of this role, this community service program was designed to enhance husbands’ understanding and skills in supporting their wives during childbirth, thereby helping to reduce maternal anxiety.The program consisted of several stages, including the delivery of structured health education sessions on maternal needs during labor, demonstrations of effective communication techniques, simulations of support during different stages of childbirth, and interactive discussions to address questions and share experiences. Through these activities, participants were encouraged to build empathy, strengthen their knowledge about labor, and develop the confidence to assist their wives effectively. The results of the program indicated a noticeable improvement in the husbands’ awareness of the importance of their role, as well as increased confidence in providing both emotional reassurance and physical assistance. Participants reported feeling better prepared to accompany their wives, manage unexpected situations, and foster a more supportive environment during childbirth. This initiative highlights the significant impact that targeted education and training for husbands can have on maternal psychological well-being, ultimately contributing to safer and more positive birth experiences.

The nutritional awareness of pregnant women in the Simpang Raya Community Health Center (Puskesmas) in Banggai Regency is still relatively low, necessitating educational efforts to increase their understanding of the importance of balanced nutrition during pregnancy. This community service activity aims to improve the knowledge of pregnant women through participatory and educational nutrition counseling held for one week in the Puskesmas hall. The methods used included interactive lectures, group discussions, and healthy menu preparation simulations, supported by leaflets adapted to the local context. A total of 40 pregnant women from various trimesters of pregnancy participated in the activity and were assessed using pre- and post-test instruments. The results of the activity showed a significant increase in participant knowledge, from 43% in the "good" category before the activity to 78% after the counseling. Most participants were able to understand the basic principles of balanced nutrition, identify food sources of important nutrients such as iron and folic acid, and prepare daily menus according to Ministry of Health guidelines. This improvement indicates that visual and interactive information delivery is easier for participants to understand, especially those with lower educational backgrounds. Furthermore, this activity also serves as a means of empowering pregnant women to be more active in maintaining their own and their fetus' health by choosing nutritious foods. Therefore, it is crucial for health workers at community health centers (Puskesmas) and integrated health post (Posyandu) cadres to continue this educational program on an ongoing basis. Structured, communicative, and participatory nutrition education is effective in increasing pregnant women's understanding and can be replicated periodically at other Posyandus (Integrated Health Posts) to support stunting prevention efforts and improve maternal and child health.

The coverage of complete basic immunization remains a serious public health concern, particularly in rural areas such as Suka Raya Village, Pancur Batu Subdistrict, where only 26.2% of infants have received full basic immunizations. Low maternal knowledge and negative attitudes are among the primary barriers contributing to this issue. This community service activity was designed to increase the knowledge and attitudes of mothers regarding the importance of complete basic immunization through structured health education. The activity involved 42 mothers with infants aged 9–12 months and was conducted in July 2025 at the Suka Raya Village Hall. The method consisted of interactive lectures, distribution of educational leaflets, and direct discussions facilitated by health educators. Pre- and post-intervention questionnaires were used to assess changes in knowledge and attitudes. The results showed a significant improvement: mothers with good knowledge increased from 47.6% to 85.7%, and those with positive attitudes increased from 42.9% to 83.3%. The findings support that community-based health education interventions can effectively enhance maternal understanding and behavioral intentions toward completing their children's immunization schedules. It is recommended that similar educational activities be regularly implemented and supported by local health institutions and cadres. This initiative demonstrates the importance of empowering mothers at the grassroots level to improve child health outcomes.

Nausea and vomiting during the first trimester of pregnancy are common physiological symptoms that may interfere with maternal comfort and nutritional intake. One widely accepted non-pharmacological therapy to reduce these symptoms is ginger decoction, due to its antinausea properties derived from active compounds such as gingerol and shogaol. This study aims to determine the relationship between pregnant women's level of knowledge and their attitudes toward the use of ginger decoction to alleviate nausea and vomiting in the first trimester. This research employed a quantitative method with a descriptive-analytic design. The population included all first-trimester pregnant women visiting Pratama Madina Clinic during January–February 2024, totaling 47 respondents selected using total sampling. Data collection used a structured questionnaire, and the data were analyzed using univariate and bivariate techniques, with the Chi-square test applied. The results showed that 75% of respondents had good knowledge and demonstrated a positive attitude toward using ginger decoction. The Chi-square analysis revealed a significant relationship between knowledge and attitude (p = 0.000). The study concludes that knowledge level influences pregnant women's attitudes toward herbal therapy, and ginger decoction is well-accepted as a non-pharmacological option to reduce pregnancy-related nausea and vomiting. Further health education is recommended to enhance awareness of safe and effective natural therapies for pregnant women.

Exclusive breastfeeding during the first six months of life is a key strategy for improving infant health and reducing morbidity and mortality. However, the coverage of exclusive breastfeeding remains suboptimal in many areas, often due to limited maternal knowledge, inadequate support, and insufficient lactation counseling. Intensive lactation counseling is expected to enhance mothers’ understanding, confidence, and commitment to exclusive breastfeeding. This study aimed to analyze the effect of intensive lactation counseling on exclusive breastfeeding practices up to three months postpartum at the Paguat Community Health Center (UPTD). This study employed a pre-experimental design with a one-group pretest–posttest approach. A total of 30 breastfeeding mothers were selected as participants using purposive sampling techniques. Data on exclusive breastfeeding practices were collected before and after the implementation of intensive lactation counseling using structured questionnaires and observation sheets. The counseling intervention was conducted intensively through individualized sessions focusing on breastfeeding techniques, benefits of exclusive breastfeeding, and problem-solving strategies. Data were analyzed using the Wilcoxon signed-rank test with a significance level set at p < 0.05. The results showed a significant effect of intensive lactation counseling on exclusive breastfeeding practices up to three months postpartum. The Wilcoxon signed-rank test yielded a p-value of 0.000, indicating a statistically significant improvement in exclusive breastfeeding behavior after the intervention. In conclusion, intensive lactation counseling has a significant positive effect on exclusive breastfeeding up to three months. Strengthening lactation counseling services at community health centers recommended to improve exclusive breastfeeding coverage and support maternal and infant health outcomes.

Stunting is a chronic nutritional problem in toddlers that remains a global concern, including in Indonesia. This condition is characterized by height that is not appropriate for age due to long-term malnutrition, repeated infections, and environmental and social factors. The impact of stunting not only affects physical growth but also cognitive development, future productivity, and increases the risk of degenerative diseases in adulthood. Various factors contribute to stunting, including biological factors such as the child's gender and behavioral factors such as maternal knowledge about nutrition and health. This study aims to analyze the relationship between child gender and maternal knowledge and the incidence of stunting in toddlers. The research design used a quantitative cross-sectional approach. A sample of 73 respondents was selected using a stratified proportional sampling technique. Data collection was conducted through structured interviews using questionnaires and anthropometric measurements of toddlers. Data analysis was performed using univariate analysis to describe frequency distributions, and bivariate analysis using the chi-square test with a 95% confidence level. The results showed no significant association between child gender and stunting (p > 0.05). This indicates that biological factors such as gender are not the primary determinant of stunting in the study area. Conversely, there was a significant relationship between maternal knowledge and the incidence of stunting in toddlers (p < 0.05), indicating that mothers with low levels of knowledge are at greater risk of having stunted children. These findings emphasize the importance of improving maternal knowledge through ongoing nutrition education programs, health counseling, and promotive-preventive activities at community health centers. These interventions are expected to prevent stunting and other health problems in toddlers and support the achievement of the national stunting reduction target.

The toddler period is a golden stage of child development influenced by several factors, including maternal knowledge in parenting. Working mothers face challenges in balancing professional responsibilities with caregiving roles. This study aimed to examine the relationship between working mothers’ knowledge and the growth and development of toddlers at Kasih Ibu Sejati Clinic, Sosa District, Padang Lawas Regency. This research used a descriptive analytic design with a cross-sectional approach involving 42 working mothers with toddlers. The results showed that most working mothers had good knowledge (38.1%) and most toddlers were in the good developmental category (64.3%). The Chi-square test yielded a p-value of 0.004, indicating a significant relationship between the mother's level of knowledge and toddler development. Good knowledge enables mothers to provide better-quality care despite time limitations. These findings imply the importance of enhancing education for working mothers to support optimal child development.

Baby massage performed by parents provides benefits that can foster parental self-confidence, improve the growth and development of babies. Lack of knowledge about the importance of implementing baby massage, so parents need to be provided with counseling about the benefits and correct techniques in baby massage. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of baby massage counseling on the knowledge and attitudes of mothers in massaging babies at the Community Health Center. This study is a quantitative study, with the method used being a pre-experiment with a one-group pre-test and post-test design approach, with a total sample of 40 respondents using total sampling. Data collection techniques with observation sheets and questionnaires. Data were analyzed using the Wilcoxon signed-rank test. The results of this study obtained a value of þ = 0.000 < from α = 0.05 there indicating a significant difference in maternal knowledge before and after counseling, namely, from most of the mothers' knowledge of 70% less, increasing to the knowledge of most of the mothers of 72.5% who have good knowledge. The attitude of mothers before and after counseling was given, namely, the majority of mothers' attitudes 77.5% were negative, increasing to the majority of mothers' attitudes 70% were positive. The conclusion of this study is the influence of infant massage counseling on the knowledge and attitudes of mothers in massaging babies at the Community Health Center. The study is expected to provide benefits for the development of nursing science, provide an overview of the benefits of infant massage and how to massage babies correctly, and for further researchers to conduct infant massage counseling more than twice, so that all respondents who participate in infant massage counseling are not only motivated but skilled in massaging babies.

Anemia in pregnant women is a significant global public health issue, with a prevalence of 35.5% in 2023, according to the Global Anemia Estimates 2025 from the World Health Organization (WHO). The prevalence of anemia among reproductive-aged women is 30.7%, while it is 30.5% in non-pregnant women. This indicates that anemia is more prevalent among pregnant women compared to the general female population, highlighting the need for greater attention to this health issue. This study aims to identify and evaluate the risk factors or causes of anemia in pregnant women using an observational analytical approach. The research design employed is cross-sectional, which allows for the observation of the relationship between maternal knowledge about anemia and the occurrence of anemia in pregnant women at the same point in time. The study population consists of all pregnant women who visit the community health center (Puskesmas) for checkups. The results indicate that there is no significant relationship between parity (number of previous births) and the occurrence of anemia in pregnant women, with an Odds Ratio (OR) of 1.58. This means that women with higher parity are 1.58 times more likely to experience anemia compared to women with lower parity. However, the study found a significant relationship between maternal knowledge about anemia and the occurrence of anemia in pregnant women. Mothers with better knowledge about anemia are less likely to experience it. This study is expected to provide important information about the importance of improving maternal knowledge regarding anemia, which can contribute to the prevention and control of anemia in pregnant women. By enhancing maternal knowledge, it is hoped that the prevalence of anemia in pregnant women can be reduced, improving the overall health of both mothers and their unborn children.

Background: Anemia during pregnancy remains a major public health concern in Indonesia, contributing to increased maternal and fetal morbidity. Iron supplementation often faces challenges in compliance and side effects, prompting the need for natural alternatives. Natural honey has been shown to help increase hemoglobin levels due to its iron, folate, and antioxidant content. Objective: This community service aimed to educate pregnant women on the benefits and utilization of natural honey as a complementary strategy to prevent anemia. Method: The activity was conducted at PMB CH Mala in Palembang City using health education sessions, demonstrations, and distribution of printed educational materials. Participants' knowledge and hemoglobin levels were assessed pre- and post-intervention using a questionnaire and digital hemoglobinometer. The intervention lasted for 2 weeks, with honey consumption recommended at 2 tablespoons daily. Results: There was a notable improvement in participants' knowledge about anemia and the role of honey. Preliminary observations also showed a slight increase in hemoglobin levels among pregnant women who regularly consumed honey during the intervention period. Conclusion: Educational intervention on the use of natural honey proved effective in improving knowledge and potentially supporting anemia prevention among pregnant women. Further studies are recommended to evaluate long-term outcomes and larger-scale implementation.

Anxiety experienced by pregnant women is a common psychological problem and can have a significant negative impact on maternal health and fetal development. This anxiety can be caused by various factors, including physical changes, concerns about the delivery process, and new responsibilities as parents. Therefore, it is important to find effective ways to address this anxiety. One non-pharmacological approach that can be implemented is the use of lemon aromatherapy, which is known to have calming and relaxing properties. This activity aims to increase the knowledge and skills of pregnant women in utilizing lemon aromatherapy as a method to reduce their anxiety. This activity was held in June 2025 at PMB Lismarini, involving 20 pregnant women who actively participated in this program. The method used in this activity included several stages: education on the benefits of aromatherapy, demonstrations on how to use it, hands-on practice using lemon aromatherapy, and evaluation conducted through pre- and post-tests to measure changes in participants' anxiety levels. The results of this activity showed a significant decrease in participants' anxiety levels. Previously, many pregnant women were in the severe and moderate anxiety categories, but after participating in the activity, they shifted to mild anxiety and even no anxiety. Lemon aromatherapy has been proven effective in providing relaxation and reducing emotional tension experienced by pregnant women. Therefore, this activity is expected to become a promotional educational model in maternal health services. Through this approach, it is hoped that pregnant women will better understand and utilize aromatherapy as a way to maintain their mental health during pregnancy. Furthermore, this activity can also provide health workers with insight into the importance of non-pharmacological approaches in supporting the mental health of pregnant women.

Nutritional status is a measure of success in fulfilling nutritional needs in children which is shown through the achievement of body weight for age. The nutritional status of toddlers is very significant as a starting point for physical capacity in adulthood. This descriptive study uses primary data, namely data obtained from direct field observations using a questionnaire that has been designed previously to determine maternal knowledge about nutritional status in toddlers in Telaga Sari Village, Sunggal District, Deli Serdang Regency, as many as 30 people in this study. Based on research from 30 people who became respondents, the Description of Mother's Knowledge about nutritional status in toddlers in Telaga Sari Village, Sunggal District, Deli Serdang Regency, the majority of 14 people (47%) have sufficient knowledge and a minority of 6 mothers who have less knowledge (20%). Based on age, the majority were 20-35 years old (23%), and the minority were 1 person (3%) aged <20 years old. Based on education, the majority were high school (27%), and the minority were elementary school (3%). Based on occupation, the majority were employed (27%), and the minority were unemployed (7%). This study is expected to encourage village midwives to provide more information through counseling and increase mothers' knowledge about the nutritional status of toddlers to prevent malnutrition.  

Antenatal Care (ANC) is an essential component of maternal health services that plays a vital role in maintaining the health of the mother and fetus during pregnancy and delivery. In Indonesia, coverage of ANC services K1 has reached 100%, but coverage of K4 has only reached 78% and has not met the national target. A case study in Sidenreng Rappang Regency showed better results with K1 coverage of 98% and K4 reaching 97%, although there is still room for improvement. This quantitative study with a cross-sectional design aims to analyze the relationship between maternal knowledge, attitudes, and husband's support factors on the utilization of ANC services at the Compong Village Health Post. The study population included 190 mothers with toddlers registered at the Compong Village Health Post. Sampling was carried out using the Slovin formula with a 95% confidence level and a 5% margin of error, resulting in 127 respondents as the research sample. The data collection method was carried out through a structured questionnaire containing questions about respondent characteristics, level of knowledge, attitudes towards ANC, and level of husband's support. Data analysis used the Chi-Square statistical test with a significance level of p<0.05 to determine the relationship between the independent and dependent variables. The results revealed several important findings. First, there was a significant relationship (p=0.002) between maternal knowledge and utilization of ANC services. Second, maternal attitudes also showed a significant relationship (p=0.001) with the frequency of ANC visits. Third, husband's support was shown to have a significant influence (p=0.003) on maternal participation in ANC programs. These findings confirm the multifactorial role in determining ANC service utilization. Practical implications of this study include recommendations for improving health education programs that not only target pregnant women but also actively involve husbands.

The maternal mortality rate (MMR) in Indonesia remains high, with many cases linked to pregnancy complications associated with iron deficiency anemia (IDA). Anemia has widespread effects on women’s reproductive health and child development, including decreased immunity, cognitive impairment, and increased risk of premature birth. One promising nutritional intervention is the consumption of mung bean extract, which is rich in iron. This community service activity aimed to improve public knowledge and skills regarding the benefits of mung bean extract for women's reproductive health and child nutrition. The program involved educational sessions and practical demonstrations delivered to residents in the target area, with active participation from local leaders and community members. The results showed increased awareness and motivation among the participants to consume mung bean extract regularly. The enthusiasm demonstrated by the community indicates the effectiveness of this outreach in raising awareness about the importance of simple nutritional interventions to prevent anemia and improve maternal and child health. It is hoped that this activity can be sustained as a promotive and preventive public health effort.

Exclusive breastfeeding plays a crucial role in reducing neonatal mortality rates, preventing growth disorders, and enhancing immunological resilience. However, adherence to exclusive breastfeeding practices remains below the targeted level. This study aims to analyze the relationship between maternal characteristics, knowledge, and family support with the success of exclusive breastfeeding in infants. A cross-sectional design was used, conducted at the UPTD Sawang Health Center, South Aceh Regency, during February–March 2025. The population consisted of all mothers with infants aged 7–12 months visiting the health center, totaling 120 individuals. A sample of 97 respondents was selected using purposive sampling. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire, followed by data processing that included response completeness checks, variable coding, and data entry. Data analysis comprised univariate analysis to present the frequency distribution of maternal characteristics and knowledge, and bivariate analysis using the Chi-Square (χ²) test with a significance level of α=0.05 to test the hypotheses. The results showed that maternal employment was significantly associated with the success of exclusive breastfeeding (p < 0.001), whereas maternal education (p = 0.566), income (p = 0.915), maternal knowledge (p = 0.351), and family support (p = 0.252) were not significantly related. In conclusion, maternal employment has a significant relationship with exclusive breastfeeding success

Iron-deficiency anemia during pregnancy remains a major public health concern in developing countries. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of iron and folic acid supplementation, known as iron tablets, in reducing the risk of anemia among pregnant women. A descriptive qualitative literature review method was employed by analyzing nine eligible studies published between 2013 and 2023. Articles were selected from databases including Google Scholar, PubMed, and ScienceDirect using specific keywords. The findings suggest that regular consumption of iron tablets, particularly starting in the second trimester and meeting the minimum recommended dose of 90 tablets, is effective in improving hemoglobin levels and lowering anemia prevalence. However, compliance remains a significant challenge, influenced by side effects, maternal knowledge, and social support. The review highlights the need for behavior-based interventions and family involvement to enhance adherence. The implication of this review supports the integration of targeted health education and follow-up strategies within antenatal care services to reduce anemia-related risks in pregnancy.

Pregnancy is a critical phase in a woman's life that demands comprehensive support from her closest environment, especially from her husband. This study aims to describe the role of husbands in accompanying their wives during pregnancy, identify factors that influence the level of involvement, and understand the impact on the physical and psychological health of pregnant women. The research approach used was qualitative with the type of phenomenological study, which was conducted in Kotabaru District, South Kalimantan. The main informants consisted of purposively selected pregnant women and postpartum mothers, complemented by triangulation from husbands, health workers, and community leaders. Data were collected through in-depth interviews, non-participatory observation, and documentation, and analyzed thematically. The results showed that husbands' assistance included involvement in pregnancy check-ups, assistance with household chores, provision of financial and emotional support, and roles in preparing for childbirth. However, this involvement was influenced by the husband's knowledge, culture, communication, and working conditions. Intact support from husbands was shown to have a positive impact on pregnant women's sense of comfort, confidence, mental readiness, and physical health. This study emphasizes the importance of holistic involvement of husbands in the pregnancy process and the need for a family and culture-based approach in preparing for childbirth.

Complications of pregnancy and childbirth as the highest cause of maternal mortality can be prevented by examining pregnancy through regular ANC Antenatal service standards include conducting physical examinations including inspection, palpation and auscultation. In addition to physical examination, counseling and counseling is one of the standards in antenatal care (Ministry of Health, 2020). The high incidence of dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF) in West Sulawesi makes it very necessary to provide education on the prevention of DHF in pregnant women because dengue infection in pregnancy can cause the risk of bleeding for the mother. Community service activities aim to increase the knowledge of pregnant women about fetal development so as to minimize the incidence of emergencies in pregnancy and increase awareness of dengue fever mosquito breeding. Dengue fever infection in pregnancy. The implementation method includes an approach in the form of a pregnancy examination and providing education related to dengue fever prevention. The results of community service activities show that on May 10, 2025, pregnancy checks were carried out for 10 pregnant women and education related to dengue fever prevention was provided.