Understanding perinatal women’s preferences for mental health apps: A mixed methods study

Abstract

Introduction

Perinatal mental health disorders impact 1 in 5 reproductive-aged women, affecting maternal and child health. Mobile apps may be a method of providing easily accessible mental health support including physical activity. However, understanding perinatal women’s use of current mental health apps and their preferences for apps tailored to their needs is lacking. Therefore, this study seeks to address this gap by investigating women’s preferences and desired features for a mental health app that includes physical activity and prioritizes the needs of perinatal women.

Materials & Methods

This explanatory sequential mixed methods study utilized an online cross-sectional survey (n = 159) and semi-structured interviews (n = 29) with perinatal women. Descriptive statistics were calculated on all demographic and survey variables. Interview data were analyzed using a directed content analysis approach.

Results

In the survey, 78.5 % of participants were interested in downloading mental health apps; however, only 38 % had previously done so, with 10.8 % currently using them. The most popular elements of the app were postpartum education, mood tracking, baby care guidance, and mental health education. The main perceived benefits of a mental health mobile app were mood-boosting and ease of use. Within the interviews, a majority felt that a perinatal mental health mobile app would be beneficial for women during this time period and emphasized a need for accurate and credible information.

Conclusions

Perinatal women desire a mobile app specific to this population. Future app development should include credible information and collaborate with perinatal women and healthcare providers to consider specific health concerns.