JMIR Publications

ABSTRACT

Background:

Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM), a type of blood glucose intolerance or hyperglycemia that occurs during pregnancy, is a common condition increasing in prevalence both globally and in Australia. Mobile health applications have been shown as a useful resource for women with Type 1 diabetes and could successfully contribute to GDM management by facilitating healthy behaviors.

Objective:

To seek the perspectives of Health Care Consumers (HCCs) and Health Professionals (HPs) regarding the development of a smartphone application for women living with GDM.

Methods:

A co-design process with four distinct phases and using an evidence-based approach underpinned the development of the SugarMumma App. Existing evidence, and the results from interviews and focus groups with eight stakeholders created an initial set of recommendations. An app development company designed the prototype with HCCs and HPs undertaking ‘user acceptance testing.’ Analysis of the findings from a second round of interviews was undertaken.

Results:

Data analysis revealed four themes. Functionality, Communication, and Individualised care were recognised as being pivotal if the app was to be informative and useful in addition to supporting the diverse needs of HCCs. Motivation to manage GDM and birth a healthy baby was seen as a motivating factor for SugarMumma’s use by women.

Conclusions:

With increasing numbers of people using smartphones in their daily lives, mHealth apps can help manage chronic conditions such as GDM. Good functionality, regular notifications, appealing visual aids, positive feedback, relevant dietary advice and exporting information to HPs are important features to include.