Digital transformation of antenatal education: A descriptive exploratory study of women's experiences of online antenatal education

Problem: Research on how women experience online antenatal education is currently limited. A more nuanced understanding may assist organisations to tailor future digitalisation that best meets the needs of users. Background: COVID-19 emergency measures forced a rapid implementation of online antenatal education. Women are known to enjoy some aspects of online antenatal education, but still desire social interaction. A marked digital divide is evident for more vulnerable populations. Aim: To explore how pregnant women experience an online antenatal education program. Methods: A descriptive exploratory study was undertaken through collection of two concurrent data-sets. Quantitative data was collected from the online Parent Education Feedback Form (n = 38) Based on the sixstage process of Braun & Clarke, reflexive thematic analysis was used to analyse data sourced from semistructured interviews with women (n = 5) who had undertaken online antenatal education. Findings: Four themes, and eight associated sub-themes, were identified to better understand how women experience online antenatal education. The four primary themes identified were: Experiential Digital Learning; Desired Journey; Contemporary Representation; and Human Connection in the Digital Age. Discussion: Well-designed digital platforms provide opportunities for interaction, content personalisation and self-tailored approaches in online antenatal education. Women require caregivers who hold specialist digital capabilities. Further research is warranted to better understand how digitalisation of antenatal education impacts women disadvantaged by digital exclusion. Conclusion: The digital transformation of antenatal education impacts a vast array of factors in women's experiences during pregnancy. A specialist skill-set from midwives is needed to champion quality antenatal education in the digital age.