Decreased fetal movement and mobile application interventions during pregnancy

Abstract

Background Perinatal morbidity and mortality remain significant public health issues globally, with enduring impact on the health and wellbeing of women and their families. Pregnant women who adopt, practice and maintain healthy behaviours can potentially improve the health of themselves and their babies. Stillbirth affects over 2,100 families annually in Australia, often preceded by maternal perception of decreased fetal movement. Mobile applications (apps) have become an integral source of information for women during pregnancy, as evidenced by the hundreds of millions of pregnant women downloading and using them, and information contained within these apps may influence maternal awareness about decreased fetal movement. However, limited evidence exists to support the impact of mobile apps, compared to other communication methods, on maternal behaviour change or perinatal health outcomes. Similarly, few studies have reviewed content of pregnancy apps to assess accuracy of information or appropriateness of recommendations for maternal concerns about fetal movement.