“I need to feel safe before I can engage”: embedding trauma-informed principles in sexual and reproductive health digital technologies

TL;DR

This study explores how to design digital sexual and reproductive health tools that avoid causing trauma and promote safety and inclusivity.

Contribution

The study identifies five trauma-informed design principles for digital sexual and reproductive health technologies.

Findings

Five trauma-informed design considerations were identified, including accessibility, confidentiality, empathetic language, psychological support, and aesthetic design.

Digital health tools can be improved by incorporating features that prevent re-traumatization and promote user safety.

Trauma-informed design can help reduce barriers and improve health outcomes for users, especially trauma survivors.

Abstract

The use of digital health technologies to access information and services related to sexual and reproductive health has been increasing. Despite the usefulness of these technologies, there are emerging concerns that they could inadvertently trigger, perpetuate and exacerbate trauma among patients. The purpose of this study was to explore trauma-informed care principles that could be applied in designing and/or utilizing sexual and reproductive health services.

We conducted 5 focus group discussions with participants who have used digital health technologies to access sexual and reproductive health services in Western Canada. The discussion centred on ways sexual health-related digital technologies could prevent triggering or perpetuating trauma among patients. The discussion took place over Zoom, and the data were analyzed using a thematic analysis approach.

The study revealed five main considerations that could be adopted in the design and use of sexual and reproductive health technologies to prevent the unintended consequences of trauma. These include (1) integrating accessibility and inclusivity features; (2) integrating confidentiality, safety, and privacy features like quick exit buttons; (3) using empathetic language and terminologies; (4) integrating emotional and psychological support services; and (5) implementing aesthetic design features.

The findings of this study would help produce equitable, safe, and empowering digital health technologies for all users, particularly trauma survivors. By integrating these principles, developers and healthcare providers can create tools that reduce barriers, mitigate re-traumatization risks, and promote positive health outcomes. Future research should focus on evaluating the implementation and impact of trauma-informed digital tools in diverse settings.