Introduction: Approximately 800 women die every day from preventable causes related to 
pregnancy and childbirth. 99% of all maternal deaths occur in developing countries. Maternal 
mortality is higher in women living in rural areas and among poorer communities (WHO, 
2014). Skilled care before, during and after childbirth can save the lives of women and 
newborn babies. Between 1990 and 2010, maternal mortality worldwide dropped by almost 
50% (WHO, 2014). Aim of the work: The study was designed to investigate the effect of 
antenatal classes in promoting perinatal knowledge among pregnant ladies in El Minya & 
Sohage governorates. Subjects And Methods: 1. Participants: A study was conducted on 182 
women from two governorates (89 women from Minia governorate and 93 women from 
Sohag governorate). Results: This study included 182 women from two governorates (89 
women from Minia governorate and 93 women from Sohag governorate). The women were 
invited to attend antenatal classes. A well-structured questionnaire was completed before and 
after enrollment to test the degree of awareness of different issues related to perinatal care of 
the women of the two governorates. Discussion: An estimated 287,000 maternal deaths 
occurred in 2010 worldwide, a decline of 47 % from 1990. Sub-Saharan Africa (with 56 per 
cent of these deaths) and Southern Asia (29 %) together accounted for 85 per cent of the 
global burden in 2010, with 245,000 maternal deaths. Summary & Conclusion: This study 
was conducted on 182 women from two governorates (89 women from Minia governorate &
93 women from Sohag governorate), then we gave them pre-test (course) printed 
questionnaires which included personal information, some demographic and obstetrical
history and some pregnancy related questions in general.