Audiovisual information affects informed choice and experience of information in antenatal Down syndrome screening--a randomized controlled trial.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the effects of an information film on making an informed choice regarding Down syndrome screening, and women's knowledge and experiences of information.

METHODS

Randomized controlled trial including 184 women in the intervention group and 206 controls recruited from maternity units in Stockholm, Sweden. The intervention was an information film presented as a complement to written and verbal information. Data were collected via a questionnaire in gestational week 27. Three different measures were combined to measure informed choice: attitudes towards Down syndrome screening, knowledge about Down syndrome and Down syndrome screening, and uptake of CUB (combined ultrasound and biochemical screening).

RESULTS

In the intervention group 71.5% made an informed choice versus 62.4% in the control group. Women in the intervention group had significantly increased knowledge, and to a greater extent than the control group, experienced the information as being sufficient, comprehensible, and correct.

CONCLUSIONS

An information film tended to increase the number of women who made an informed choice about Down syndrome screening. Participants were more satisfied with the information received.

PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS

Access to correct, nondirective, and sufficient information is essential when making a choice about prenatal diagnostics. It is essential with equivalent information to all women.