Acceptability of a Computerized Brief Intervention for Alcohol among Abstinent but At-Risk Pregnant Women

BACKGROUND: Limitations in time and training have hindered widespread implementation of alcohol-based interventions in prenatal clinics. Also, despite the possibility of underreporting or relapse, many at-risk women report that they quit drinking after pregnancy confirmation so that interventions focusing on current drinking may seem unnecessary. The Computerized Brief Intervention for Alcohol Use in Pregnancy (C-BIAP) was designed to (a) be implemented via a handheld device in prenatal clinics, and (b) use a modified brief intervention strategy with women who screen at-risk but report no current drinking. METHODS: The authors administered the C-BIAP to 18 T-ACE (Tolerance, Annoyance, Cut Down, and Eye Opener)-positive pregnant African American women who provided quantitative and qualitative feedback. RESULTS: The C-BIAP received high ratings of acceptability; qualitative feedback was also positive overall and suggested good acceptance of abstinence themes. CONCLUSIONS: Technology may be a feasible and acceptable method for brief intervention delivery with pregnant women who do not report current drinking.