A scoping review of the format, content, effectiveness and acceptability of reproductive life planning tools.

IntroductionA Reproductive Life Plan (RLP) is a set of questions that encourage patients to reflect on their reproductive goals and the actions needed to achieve them. This scoping review of the published and grey literature aims to map the evidence on currently available RLPs. MethodsWe searched four databases (Medline, Embase, PsycINFO and Scopus) and used Google to search the grey literature, the search terms were; "reproductive life plan$" OR "reproductive plans$" OR "pregnancy intention screening". Data were extracted on target audience, format, content, behaviour change theory, features, effectiveness and acceptability. Results44 published papers and 18 grey literature sources were included. 21 RLPs were discussed in the published papers and 17 in the grey literature. Most RLPs came from the USA. Most RLPs in published papers were asked verbally, while all RLPs in the grey literature were self-completed; there were six digital RLPs. Most ask whether an individual wants children, some then ask about number and timing of children, and contraception. Grey literature RLPs also asked about lifestyle and health. DiscussionThe concept of developing an RLP is acceptable to people of reproductive age and healthcare professionals. There was a lot of consistency in the questions asked, however, there is limited data on effectiveness and only three tools, all digital, incorporated behaviour change theory. ConclusionA digital RLP that builds on the evidence for existing tools and integrates appropriate theory could result in the realisation of the potential that RLPs are theorised to deliver.