The Effect of Animated Educational Video to Reduce Anxiety Levels Before Outpatient Medical Abortion: A Randomised Controlled Trial

Abstract

Objective

To determine the efficacy of an animated educational video combined with traditional counselling to reduce anxiety levels among pregnant women seeking outpatient medical abortion.

Design

Randomised controlled trial with two parallel groups.

Setting

Single centre in Bangkok, Thailand.

Population or Sample

60 pregnant women seeking outpatient medical abortion.

Methods

Participants received either an animated educational video combined with traditional counselling (n = 30) or traditional counselling alone (n = 30).

Main Outcome Measures

Postintervention anxiety levels were assessed by the Spielberger State–Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI), and satisfaction levels were measured by a 5-point Likert-type scale.

Results

There were no significant differences in demographic characteristics between groups. The postintervention STAI scores were significantly lower in the video group compared to the non-video group (32.70 ± 4.96 vs. 41.47 ± 8.57, p < 0.01). The odds of moderate to severe anxiety were significantly lower in the video group (OR 10.29, 95% CI 2.56–41.37). Patient satisfaction levels were similarly high in both groups (4.92 ± 0.27 vs. 4.85 ± 0.36, p = 0.42).

Conclusions

Incorporating an animated educational video into traditional counselling effectively reduced anxiety in pregnant women seeking outpatient medical abortion while maintaining high levels of satisfaction with the medical service provided.