Development and Evaluation of a Reproductive Health Promotion Program for Women of Reproductive Age With Kidney Transplant: Protocol for a Mixed Methods Study Publisher Pubmed



Z Haghighatdana ZOHREH ; F Mohammadi FATEMEH ; Ms Forghani Mohammad SAAD ; S Kohan SHAHNAZ
Source: Reproductive Health Published:2025

Abstract

Background: Kidney transplantation is the best treatment for patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD), and Iran, with a rate of 30.9 transplants per million people, has the highest kidney transplant rate in the Middle East. A significant portion of the kidney transplant burden is related to the women’s reproductive function and potential. Kidney transplantation significantly improves the quality of life and survival of women with ESRD; thus, they are more inclined to resume fertility health care. However, reproductive health care, as a vital aspect of post-transplant care, is often overlooked. Women receiving kidney transplants face specific challenges in reproductive and sexual health, which require systematic and practical planning to enhance this field. This study aims to design and evaluate a comprehensive reproductive health promotion program for women with kidney transplants, using a mixed-methods approach to systematically explore the needs, challenges, and impacts of this program and provide evidence-based solutions. Methods: This study uses a sequential exploratory mixed-methods approach with three phases: a qualitative study, a literature review, and the design and evaluation of a program. In the first phase, the study begins with the collection of qualitative data through purposive sampling and interviews with participants, including women with kidney transplants, healthcare providers, and policymakers related to kidney transplantation and reproductive health. It continues until data saturation is reached. We conduct a literature review in the second phase. Then, in the third phase, the literature review data are integrated with the qualitative study data, and a reproductive health promotion program is designed. Finally, a quantitative approach employing the modified Delphi method and an expert panel will be used in a two-round process to assess the program’s validity and feasibility. Discussion: Providing a comprehensive program to promote reproductive health based on the experiences of kidney transplant women, healthcare provider, policymakers, and scientific evidence can help health system managers and policymakers see things in a new way that will improve the reproductive health outcomes of kidney transplant women. Such an approach will make sure that these women can get reproductive health services in a way that fits their needs and life situations. © 2025 Elsevier B.V., All rights reserved.