Facilitators and barriers to COVID-19 vaccine uptake in pregnancy
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Facilitators and barriers to COVID-19 vaccine uptake in ethnically diverse pregnant women: a qualitative study
IRAS ID
312878
Contact name
Mohammad Sharif Razai
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
St George's University of London
Clinicaltrials.gov Identifier
N/A, N/A
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 6 months, 6 days
Research summary
Research Summary
Background:
COVID-19 has had a disproportionate impact on pregnant women - particularly in those unvaccinated against COVID-19- with much higher mortality hospitalisation and death rates compared to reproductive-aged women in the population. Vaccine uptake is particularly low among some ethnic minority groups in the UK. Vaccination is an effective strategy in mitigating the risk in pregnancy. We urgently need to understand the factors that cause vaccine reluctance, hesitancy and refusal, and how to facilitate engagement with vaccination programmes.
Aims:
To explore in-depth ethnically diverse pregnant women's perspective and experiences of COVID-19 vaccinations and its implications for COVID-19 vaccination, other routine vaccines, parallel health areas and future pandemics.
Methods:
We aim to conduct in depth telephone interviews using semi-structured, open-ended questions. Interviews will be
conducted by a Research Assistant and Healthcare professionals. Patients will be recruited using purposive sampling
in socially and ethnically diverse general practices and hospitals in London. Interviews will be audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim and subjected to thematic analysis. Data on age, sex, occupation, co-morbidities, previous vaccination status, geographical location, country of birth, education level will be also be obtained. Data collection will be ended when data saturation is reached, and no novel concepts are arising. Data will be analysed inductively, informed by thematic analysis, using NVIvo 12 and a comprehensive lists of codes developed by the researchers.
Outcomes:
In depth qualitative data on reasons for COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy and facilitators for increasing the uptake of the
vaccine.Summary of Results
Vaccination during pregnancy is crucial for protecting both mothers and babies, yet vaccination rates remain low, particularly among Black and Asian women. We examined the views of pregnant women on three key vaccines recommended during pregnancy: Influenza, Pertussis (whooping cough), and COVID-19. We also explored their attitudes towards participating in vaccine trials and using artificial intelligence (AI) for vaccine information.In 2023, we conducted interviews with ethnically diverse pregnant women in Greater London, focusing on their opinions on vaccination, willingness to join vaccine trials, and use of technology for health information. The interviews were analysed to identify common themes.
We interviewed 21 women aged 20-39, with 67% from ethnic minorities. Over half (53%) expressed hesitancy towards at least one vaccine. Key findings showed concerns about vaccine safety, especially newer vaccines, a reliance on healthcare professionals for advice, and a need for clear information tailored to pregnant women. Many felt midwives did not provide adequate information or recommendations. There was reluctance towards joining vaccine trials and mixed feelings about using AI for vaccine advice.
In conclusion, pregnant women need clear information from healthcare providers, especially midwives, to support informed decisions. Although AI can offer helpful information, responses to its use were varied.
REC name
Wales REC 4
REC reference
22/WA/0091
Date of REC Opinion
5 Apr 2022
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion