Grant: DRA : Canada Graduate Research Scholarship - Doctoral Program (CGRS D)

Background. A dilation and curettage (D&C) is a common gynaecological procedure often used for first-trimester pregnancy terminations or management of miscarriages. Many D&C patients often experience fear, stress, and other upsetting emotions throughout this procedure. They also often report severe pain because of poor pain management options available, putting them at risk for long-term mental health problems. Virtual reality has been shown to help reduce both pain and anxiety during similar procedures; however, it is still largely unknown if and how it can help patients undergoing D&Cs, as this is a unique group with particular vulnerabilities. Objectives. The goal of the proposed research is to develop a program to help reduce distress and pain during a D&C by exploring the experiences of patients who have had a D&C to gather their suggestions on how to minimize distress and pain during these procedures and gather their perspectives on the use of virtual reality (VR) during this procedure. Study 1 will involve group interviews with individuals who have had a D&C and interviews with healthcare workers who provide D&Cs. The principal applicant will conduct the interviews. Using information gathered from the first study, a VR intervention will be developed for study 2. Study 2 will consist of a trial to test the developed VR intervention with approximately 30 people prepared to undergo a D&C procedure. Following the intervention, participants and healthcare providers will be invited to provide feedback on the intervention. The implications of this study will help improve women's health and address gender inequalities, as women are often overlooked and under-treated in the healthcare sector, especially with regards to pain management.