A new study published in the journal Healthcare has systematically evaluated the availability, accessibility, content, and evidence base of online early labour information provided by UK hospitals, with a focus on inclusivity and equity.
Researchers from the Centre for Midwifery and Women’s Health at Bournemouth University reviewed 146 NHS and HSC hospital websites across England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland to identify publicly available guidance on early labour.
Key Findings:
- Availability: Only 72 out of 146 hospital websites (49%) provided guidance specifically focused on early labour or included a dedicated section on the latent phase.
- Accessibility: Just over half of leaflets and booklets (55%) stated they were available in alternative languages or accessible formats upon request. Only 17.6% of video resources were available in languages other than English, and none included sign language interpretation.
- Visual Representation: Visual support was minimal. Only five guidance materials included images of Black women or families from other ethnic minority backgrounds, and no images of disabled women were found.
- Clinical Content: Definitions of early labour and recommendations for pain management varied considerably. Some guidance continued to endorse interventions like aromatherapy or acupuncture, despite updated NICE guidance advising against their use during the latent phase.
- Evidence Transparency: Only a minority of resources cited supporting references, limiting transparency regarding the evidence underpinning their recommendations.
The study concludes that limitations in accessibility, consistency, and transparency may contribute to disparities in understanding and decision-making, particularly for women from disadvantaged or marginalised groups. The authors call for standardised, evidence-based, and inclusive information to support equitable maternity care during early labour.
Read the full article here.