Tobacco and Nicotine Use in the Perinatal Period: A Postpartum Video Intervention

Tobacco use causes over 500,000 deaths annually in the United States, with additional morbidity and mortality associated with second-hand exposure. Although some women quit antenatally, most resume within one year. Previous research depicted that women want information and support to quit and health care providers need tools to assist them. The purpose of this pilot study was to determine the effectiveness of an educational video in improving the knowledge and self-efficacy of women postnatally in a hospital setting regarding nicotine use. A pre-post-test design measured differences in knowledge and self-efficacy after viewing the video. Women were recruited during their postpartum hospital stay. Participants completed the 23 item PTABS survey via smartphone before and after viewing the video. There were 27 participants; 13 reported use of nicotine products in their lifetime; 5 were current smokers, and one each reported use of hookah or vape products. The majority (81%) had an increased risk of nicotine exposure from their personal history, household, or family/friends. Two survey items showed an increase in knowledge regarding risks of asthma (p= 0.042) and learning problems (p= 0.021) for children exposed postnatally (N=23). All participants agreed or strongly agreed that the video was helpful. This study suggests that women who do not admit to current use still need assessment and educational interventions related to nicotine products. Results indicated that our intervention had a positive impact on participants’ knowledge. Further research is needed using a larger sample to examine the effect on self-efficacy.https://orb.binghamton.edu/research_days_posters_2022/1077/thumbnail.jp