Mixed Methods Evaluation of a Novel Interactive Perinatal Telehealth Program

Abstract

Mental health conditions impact one in five perinatal patients as the most common complication of pregnancy and birth, leading to the need for individualized telehealth programs for this at-risk population. Telehealth increased exponentially since the COVID-19 pandemic, exemplifying telehealth as a convenient, cost-effective, and timely healthcare delivery modality. Perinatal telehealth programs support mental health, maternal satisfaction, and postpartum preparedness. However, few studies examine the impact of these programs on maternal outcomes other than satisfaction.

This project evaluated a fully online midwife-led perinatal program that led to highly satisfied people over time and supported their mental health needs. The program used unlimited, on-demand, interactive text messaging, biweekly video teleconferencing, and educational videos to prepare pregnant people for postpartum. A mixed methods retrospective, descriptive design measured satisfaction and examined participant feedback from a convenience sample of 66 former clients who completed the program between December 2019 and December 2022.

Several clients sought the program for mental health support, having a personal history of anxiety (65.2%, n = 15) or depression (30.4%, n = 7). Upon program completion, 93.3% (n = 14) were extremely likely to recommend the program and 80.0% (n = 12) felt well prepared for postpartum. Physical fitness and ongoing mental health support were the most desirable future supplemental topics. Survey results showed 86.2% (n = 25) were very satisfied with the program over time, and most (65.5%, n = 19) said the program was very important for pregnant people, with video teleconferencing and text messaging rated more beneficial than educational videos. Mental health support ranked as the most useful focus area. Interviewed participants described the program as a “lifeline.”

Interdisciplinary care, sessions for partners of pregnant people, and expanded access are important considerations for future perinatal telehealth programs. These programs will need to offer strong support for the birthing person, as well as essential infant and postpartum care education. Future studies should focus on the impact of online perinatal programs on maternal mental health conditions. Supportive telehealth programs are essential to all pregnant and postpartum people and should become part of the standard of care during the perinatal period.