Women's preferences for interconception care: a discrete choice experiment study

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Health
• Maternal Health
• Women's Health Services Research

Background:

• Interconception care (ICC) between pregnancies enhances maternal and infant health.
• Women face barriers to accessing ICC, including caregiving, transport, and clinician availability.
• Understanding women's preferences is crucial for improving ICC engagement.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine women's preferences for engaging with interconception care (ICC).
• To identify key attributes influencing women's choices regarding ICC services.

Main Methods:

• A discrete choice experiment (DCE) survey was administered to Australian women (March 2024).
• Analysis involved mixed logit models and latent class modeling to assess preferences and heterogeneity.
• Data included sociodemographics, ICC attitudes, and preferences for service delivery.

Main Results:

• Women preferred ICC provided by nurses/midwives, via home visits or in-person consultations.
• Preferred attributes included child-friendly waiting areas, 30-60 minute appointments, and lower costs.
• Key informational needs focused on emotional/mental health support; general practice was a favored location.

Conclusions:

• Familiar clinicians, longer appointments, and reduced costs are vital for enhancing ICC access.
• Policy and funding are necessary to support the effective provision of interconception care.
• Tailoring ICC services to women's preferences can improve uptake and health outcomes.