Virtual Antenatal Group Contraception Counseling: A Pilot Study [ID: 1346753

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: This pilot study examines the feasibility, patient satisfaction, and knowledge after a novel virtual Group Contraception Counseling (GCC) session. METHODS: At an urban academic hospital, we recruited English-speaking pregnant women aged 15–49 who had access to a video-enabled electronic device. Participants engaged in a standardized 45-minute educational session about contraceptive methods in groups of two to five persons conducted over a video conferencing platform. The primary outcome was patient satisfaction measured by the Person-Centered Contraception Counseling (PCCC) scale. The secondary outcome was knowledge change before and after counseling. We used a nonparametric test of ranks to analyze satisfaction scores. A paired-sample t test and independent t tests were used to compare knowledge scores. RESULTS: Nineteen participants completed the study. Participants identified primarily as Black (47%), in a partnership (52%), having completed college (61%), and having an annual income of less than $50,000 (78%). The mean PCCC score was 19.21 out of 20 (SD 1.12, range 13–20) with no difference in satisfaction based on demographics or knowledge change score (r−0.296, P=.218). There was a significant difference between knowledge test scores pre- and post-GCC sessions (t 18=−3.229, P<.01), with post scores being 12% higher than pre scores (range 16–40%). Age, race, partnership status, and employment did not differentiate scores, whereas education was predictive of mean change of score after the GCC session (t 15=−2.93, P<.01). CONCLUSION: Our preliminary findings suggest antenatal contraception counseling in small virtual groups is a feasible option with high satisfaction and increased contraceptive knowledge for postpartum contraception choices.