The effect of video-based multimedia information before amniocentesis on pain, anxiety, and pregnancy outcomes

Amniocentesis is the most commonly used invasive prenatal diagnostic test. This study aimed to investigate the effect of video-based multimedia information (MMI) on the anxiety and pain levels of patients undergoing amniocentesis. This randomized controlled study included all consecutive women aged 18-45 years scheduled for amniocentesis. Subjects were assigned to receive video-based MMI or standard written information. Anxiety levels were assessed pre-procedure and post-procedure using the State and Trait Anxiety Inventory-State (STAI-S). All patients underwent standard amniocentesis by the same perinatologists. After amniocentesis, Likert scale was used to evaluate the ease of the procedure and patient satisfaction, and a visual analog scale was used to evaluate pain. Pregnancy results and amniocentesis results were noted. Eighty-four patients were randomized to receive video-based MMI, and 76 were randomized to receive written information. The post-procedure STAI-S score was significantly lower in both the video group and the control group compared to the pre-procedure STAI-S score (47.8 ± 5.23 vs. 45.86 ± 5.02, 95% CI: [2.38-1.52], p < 0.001, and 46.75 ± 7.35 vs. 44.82 ± 6.85, 95% CI: [2.33-1.51], p < 0.001). The satisfaction rate of the video group was significantly higher than controls (69.05% vs. 48.68%, p = 0.01). Procedure pain, ease of procedure, and pregnancy outcomes were similar for both groups (p > 0.05). Performing video-based MMI before the amniocentesis procedure is associated with higher patient satisfaction than standard written information. Video-based MMI was not associated with reductions in pain and anxiety in patients undergoing amniocentesis.