Metaverse Clinic for Pregnant Women With Subclinical Hypothyroidism: Prospective Randomized Study

Area of Science:

• Digital Health
• Obstetrics & Gynecology
• Endocrinology

Background:

• Subclinical hypothyroidism (SCH) is a common pregnancy complication linked to adverse outcomes.
• The metaverse, integrating AR, VR, AI, and blockchain, offers new healthcare engagement possibilities.
• Its application in managing thyroid disorders during pregnancy remains unexplored.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the safety and effectiveness of a metaverse platform for managing SCH in pregnant women.
• To assess the impact of metaverse interventions on maternal and offspring health outcomes.

Main Methods:

• A randomized controlled trial involving 60 pregnant women with SCH.
• Participants were assigned to either a standard care group or a metaverse group receiving virtual consultations and games.
• Primary outcomes included adverse maternal and offspring outcomes; secondary outcomes assessed offspring neurodevelopment and maternal psychological status.

Main Results:

• The metaverse group showed a significantly lower incidence of adverse offspring outcomes (7% vs. 33%, P=.01).
• Maternal mental health improved significantly in the metaverse group, with better Self-Rating Depression and Anxiety Scale scores (P<.001, P=.001).
• No significant differences were found in maternal adverse outcomes or offspring neurobehavioral development between groups.

Conclusions:

• Metaverse technology can significantly decrease adverse offspring outcomes in pregnancies with SCH.
• Virtual platforms positively impact maternal mental well-being during pregnancy.
• The metaverse shows promise as a safe and effective tool in managing SCH during pregnancy.