Development of an evidence-based website on preconception health

Keywords: Fertility awareness, health behaviour, internet-based information, preconception health, reproductive life plan

Abstract

Introduction: Many women and men lack knowledge about fertility, including timing of the fertile window, age-related decline, and lifestyle factors that may impair fertility. The Internet has become an important source of information, but evidence-based information on fertility and reproduction in Swedish on the Internet is limited. The present study aimed to develop and evaluate an evidence-based fertility awareness website, ‘reproduktivlivsplan.se’, to increase awareness of fertility and provide guidance for improved preconception health and care among individuals and healthcare providers.

Methods: The website’s content, design, and layout were evaluated qualitatively among a total of 20 nursing students. An expert group of researchers also provided feedback on the content. Finally, healthcare providers (n = 24) answered a questionnaire covering attitudes and views on the Reproductive Life Plan website as a tool for counselling.

Results: The developing process resulted in a mobile-friendly website, ‘reproduktivlivsplan.se’ (in English: Reproductive Life Plan). The website, including the content and layout, was positively evaluated by most participants and was amended according to suggested improvements. Uppsala University was found to be a trustworthy source.

Conclusion: The evidence-based website ‘reproduktivlivsplan.se’ was well received among users and healthcare providers and may provide guidance for improved preconception health and care if it becomes well known and frequently used.

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Published
2018-06-18
How to Cite
Ekstrand Ragnar M., Niemeyer Hultstrand J., Tydén T., & Larsson M. (2018). Development of an evidence-based website on preconception health. Upsala Journal of Medical Sciences, 123(2), 116–122. https://doi.org/10.1080/03009734.2018.1476423
Section
Original Articles