Perspectives of Pregnant Women Regarding the Use of Mobile Phones for Antenatal Health Education: A Qualitative Study in Rural Southwestern Kenya

Abstract

Introduction: Pregnant women face a myriad of challenges ranging from anxiety, myths and misconceptions concerning pregnancy, diet, and general antenatal care because of inadequate health education during the antenatal period. There are extensive studies on mobile phone use in primary care; however, only a few qualitative studies have been conducted to establish the usefulness of these devices in antenatal education. Therefore, this study aimed to explore pregnant women’s views on mobile phone use in antenatal education. Methods: This study utilised a qualitative study design. It was conducted in rural health facilities in southwestern Kenya. Focus group discussions were used to collect data which were analysed thematically using ATLAS.ti version 23. Results: The overall theme that emerged from the study was “antenatal education is beneficial, and if provided via a preferred mode of mobile phone communication, can bridge the gap in antenatal education content.” The participants perceived antenatal education through mobile phones as beneficial and complementary to the information received during routine antenatal care. Most of the participants felt that antenatal education should be given through a preferred mode of mobile phone communication. Conclusion: Mobile phones have the potential to improve the quality of antenatal education provided during pregnancy.