"Through marriage guidance, prospective couples are educated on the importance of maintaining their health during the prenuptial period," said the ministry's Deputy for Family Quality Improvement and Population, Woro Srihastuti Sulistyaningrum, in a statement issued on Friday.
She explained that marriage guidance is not merely an orientation on married life but also serves as an educational tool on pregnancy risks.
"One of the factors contributing to maternal mortality is a lack of knowledge about healthy pregnancy, access to health services, and proper nutrition for pregnant women," she said.
Marriage guidance informs couples about pregnancy planning, proper nutrition, and prenatal health monitoring to prevent serious complications.
Sulistyaningrum added that this approach aims to better prepare couples for family life—physically, mentally, and financially.
"In addition to health, marriage guidance also emphasizes the importance of good communication in the household to prevent conflicts that could affect family well-being," she added.
Meanwhile, Zudi Rahmanto, an official at the Ministry of Religious Affairs, said the marriage guidance program teaches prospective couples effective communication skills and provides psychological insights.
"This program equips couples with essential communication skills, including psychological insights and an understanding of their roles and responsibilities as partners," he added.
Therefore, he stated that his ministry is committed to improving the quality and coverage of the program to support more couples preparing for marriage.
The program is expected to help reduce maternal mortality and foster healthy, harmonious, and prosperous families.
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Translator: Asep F, Kenzu
Editor: Anton Santoso
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