A Randomized Control Trial to assess the effectiveness of mHealth on use of Postpartum Contraception and Identification of barriers to uptake among Postnatal Women

Abstract

Introduction: Knowledge of contraception and practice remain, low in the postpartum period. Postpartum contraception (PPC) can be used to avoid unplanned pregnancies, and decrease the maternal, infant, child morbidity and mortality rate.  Objectives: (a) To assess the effectiveness of mHealth on knowledge regarding contraception and uptake of PPC among antenatal and postnatal women. (b) Identify barriers to uptake of PPC among postnatal women. Methodology: A randomized control trial was conducted on 120 participants. 60 study participants in each group. The randomization was done by using computer-generated random numbers into two groups. The data was collected through the structured interview method and Self-reporting. In experimental group each participant was explained in detail about the method of PPC at the time of enrollment and sent text SMS, WhatsApp message and voice calling for every week at 37 weeks upto six weeks of postpartum period. In control group routine care was provided by health professionals according to institutional policy. Results: mHealth associated with was increase in knowledge score regarding contraception (p<0.001), while there was no change seen in the control group. There was increase use of PPC at the time of delivery in the experimental group (p<0.030) as compared to the control group. Conclusion: mHealth was found effective in raising awareness and knowledge regarding contraception in postnatal women after the intervention. There was also a significant increase in uptake of PPC among postnatal women and helps to identify the barriers to uptake PPC.