Most new parents will experience changes to their sexual relationship during the perinatal period, yet no accessible prevention programs exist to support couples in navigating these changes. The goal of this observational study is to test the feasibility of the introductory modules of an online program (STORK) designed to promote perinatal sexual well-being in a sample of expectant couples. The main question it aims to answer is: Is STORK a feasible and acceptable resource to support couples' perinatal sexual well-being? Couple participants who complete the first two modules of the STORK program will answer online survey questions and an interview about their experience with the program.
Study Type
OBSERVATIONAL
Enrollment
22
We tested the feasibility of the introductory modules of an online couple-based program (STORK), designed to be grounded in empirically established risk and protective factors associated with couples' perinatal sexual well-being. STORK is a web-based program including psychoeducation and behavioral tasks to be completed by couples
Dalhousie University
Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
Acceptability
After completing the initial STORK program's modules, couples self-reported on acceptability of the platform using 11 researcher-derived items modeled after prior similar work. Items assessed aspects such as enjoyment, overall organization, and amount of information for Module 0 and Module 1 using 7-point Likert-type response scales. Participants also provided open-ended suggestions for improvement.
Time frame: At entry (around 20 weeks gestation)
Content and layout
Participants self-reported on 9 researcher-derived items assessing the content and layout of information presented in the STORK program such as platform layout, clarity and appropriateness of content using 7-point Likert-type response scales. Three open-ended questions asked about areas that were covered well, areas of improvement, and confusing terms/ideas.
Time frame: At entry (around 20 weeks gestation)
Functionality
Two researcher-derived items assessed ease of navigation and the relevance of graphics (i.e., images/videos) using 7-point Likert-type response scales; an open-ended question asked about specific suggestions to functionality of the platform.
Time frame: At entry (around 20 weeks gestation)
Inclusivity
Participants self-reported on their perceptions regarding inclusivity of the platform using 4 researcher-derived items completed on a 7-point Likert-type response scales. One open-ended question asked about specific suggestions to improve inclusivity of the program.
Time frame: At entry (around 20 weeks gestation)
Time commitment
Participants self-reported how long it took them to complete the modules, and whether they considered this amount of time reasonable using a dichotomic (yes/no) item; if they responded negatively, then they were invited to provide reasons using an open-ended question.
Time frame: At entry (around 20 weeks gestation)
Feasibility of the program's introductory modules - semi structured interview
After completing the module, a semi-structured interview was conducted. The interview included open-ended questions about the web platform, as well as specific questions regarding its content, relevancy, clarity, organization, aesthetics, navigation, and functionality.
Time frame: At entry (around 20 weeks gestation)
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