Background and Aim: Scientific literature has emphasized the role of education and non-pharmacological methods such as relaxation techniques as the priority treatment for anxiety in pregnancy. This study aimed to determine the effect of education, based on the health belief model (HBM) associated with relaxation on anxiety of nulliparous women. 

Materials and Methods: In an experimental study, 120 nulliparous women referring to health centers in Qazvin City were assigned randomly to experimental and control groups by means of multi-stage sampling. Intervention course included 3 sessions of group education and a relaxation training session in addition to an educational CD and theory-based training booklet. The data collection tools included demographic questions, 58 item Pregnancy Related Anxiety Questionnaire (PRAQ), Knowledge scale and HBM related questions which were filled out by the participants in a self –reported manner before and after the intervention. Using SPSS 20.0, data were analyzed by analytical tests such as T-test, chi-square, Mann-Whitney U and ANOVA. 

Results: The mean scores of knowledge, perceived sensitivity and severity, perceived barriers & benefits, self efficacy and cue to action constructs improved significantly in the experimental group after the intervention (P<0.001). Results revealed a significant decrease in the total anxiety score (from 241.9 ± 42.3 to 164.1 ± 40.4, P< 0.01) and its dimensions in the experimental group after the intervention.

Conclusion: Regarding the effect of theory based relaxations training on reduction of anxiety in nulliparous women, use of these interventions to improve the health of women during pregnancy is recommended.

Key words: Pregnancy, Anxiety, Attitude, Behavior Modification, Relaxation.              

Received: Aug 11, 2016      Accepted: Mar 13, 2017