Health care professionals' views on a new postpartum contraception audiovisual animation: a survey

The postpartum period is a high-risk time for unintended pregnancy. We developed a 2-minute audiovisual animation on postpartum contraception (PPC) including the return of fertility after birth for patients. The aim of our study was to determine the views of healthcare professionals (HCPs) involved in pregnancy care on the animation and to identify facilitators and barriers to its implementation into routine pregnancy care pathways.

An anonymous online questionnaire was circulated to 100 HCPs (midwives, doctors, health visitors) in Glasgow, Scotland, UK who provide antenatal and/or postnatal care. The aim was to collect 50 responses. The questionnaire contained 12 questions including fixed responses, categorical Likert rating scale questions and open-ended questions. Content analysis was used for the free-text responses.

Forty-four responses were obtained. HCPs rated the animation positively for information and inclusivity (95%), accessibility for those with a disability (81.8%) and non-English speaking (59%), and usefulness for HCPs (88.6%) and pregnant individuals (97%). Some felt the animation should contain more information or could be displayed on digital screens in clinical waiting areas. Suggestions were made as to the optimal time to view the animation in pregnancy and the importance of choice of whether/how to view and considerations on trauma-informed care. Accessibly for HCPs was mentioned, with considerations on how the resource could alleviate perceived service and financial pressures.

The animation was felt to be an engaging, inclusive and informative knowledge tool for patients. Consideration needs to be given to allow choice to view, timing and the appropriate digital media for delivering it.