Breastfeeding Mobile Application for Mothers with Gestational Diabetes Mellitus: Designed by Mothers and Experts

Background: Since mothers with gestational diabetes mellitus and their babies have increased risks for diabetes, obesity, and cardiovascular complications, breastfeeding, which helps lower the risks, is strongly recommended for them. However, due to various barriers, the rate of breastfeeding remains low among mothers with gestational diabetes mellitus. Hence, this study aimed to develop a mobile application to help promote breastfeeding in mothers with gestational diabetes mellitus who are vulnerable to infection, especially in the current coronavirus disease (COVID-19) situation in which social distancing is mandated. Method: The Method of App Selection based on Users' Needs (MASUN), a method used in designing app structure and user interface (UI) by considering user needs, was used to develop the “Breastfeeding for Gestational Diabetes Mellitus App (BFGDM App)” by reflecting the needs of target users (i.e., mothers with gestational diabetes mellitus). Four personas were created based on the experiences of four mothers with gestational diabetes mellitus, and the personas’ needs were assessed and prioritized. Two professors and a clinical instructor in women’s health nursing conducted an expert review and revised the contents. Results: : The final version of the BFGDM App included the following components to promote breastfeeding in mothers with gestational diabetes mellitus: baby growth, breastfeeding records, information about mothers with gestational diabetes mellitus, information about breastfeeding, videos demonstrating breastfeeding methods and breast massage techniques, breastfeeding success stories, a message board, a section for frequently asked questions and the answers (Q&A), and links to breastfeeding education centers. Conclusions: : The use of the BFGDM App is expected to help prevent complications in mothers with diabetes mellitus and their babies, and promote maternal and child health through improved breastfeeding practices, especially in social distancing situations resulting from COVID-19.