JMIR Publications

ABSTRACT

Background:

Intimate partner violence (IPV) is recognised as a global health problem. Earlier research has shown that when women manage digital questionnaires, they are more likely to disclose IPV. Little is known about how women experience eHealth interventions with safety behaviours.

Objective:

The aim of this study was to explore pregnant women’s attitudes and experiences with a tablet intervention to promote safety behaviours in a randomised controlled trial (RCT) in antenatal care.

Methods:

Individual semi-structured interviews were conducted with 10 women who participated in the Safe Pregnancy study. A randomised controlled trial (RCT) was conducted using a tablet intervention containing IPV questions and a film to promote safety behaviours. The interviews were conducted at different maternal and child health centres (MCHC) in Norway between March 2020 and June 2020. The analysis was guided by thematic analysis.

Results:

Women who participated in the tablet intervention appreciated being asked questions about IPV on a tablet. However, it was important to supplement the tablet intervention with face-to-face communication with the midwife. The MCHC was regarded as a suitable place to answer questions and watch a film about safety behaviours. Women suggested making the tablet intervention available in other settings where women meet healthcare professionals. Some women expressed uncertainty about their anonymity regarding their answers in the questionnaire.

Conclusions:

Questions about IPV and a film about safety behaviours on a tablet, as a supplement to face-to-face communication, might initiate and facilitate communication about IPV in antenatal care. Clinical Trial: This study is registered in ClinicalTrials.gov. Identifier: NCT03397277 (Registered 11th January 2018).