The development of amnioDex was organised around five phases of research

Phase 1 :

We decided to develop amnioDex using theories of decision making (ref 12). We also appraised all existing tools intended to help women when they have to decide about an amniocentesis (ref 13).

Phase 2:

We conducted several one-day meetings (focus groups) with 13 health professionals from Wales and England to get support and advice on the development of amnioDex.

Phase 3:

We conducted interviews with women who have been offered an amniocentesis. We interviewed women who decided to have an amniocentesis, who declined an amniocentesis and women who found out that their baby had a chromosome problem.
We also interviewed health professionals who help and advise women about amniocentesis testing (midwives, obstetricians, geneticists and genetic counsellors). Our aim was to examine the information and decision needs of women if offered an amniocentesis.

Phase 4:

We analysed the data collected during the interviews and developed amnioDex, in collaboration with a web-design company. The initial draft of amnioDex was reviewed by 15 health professionals.

Phase 5:

We field-tested amnioDex with patients and professionals.