JMIR Publications

ABSTRACT

Background:

The journey to parenthood involves significant physical, emotional, and psychosocial changes. Mental health challenges impact both maternal and fetal health, potentially leading to obstetric complications and developmental risks for children. Access to needed perinatal support is often limited due to individual and structural barriers. Digital health solutions can offer opportunities to provide low-threshold, personalized, and scalable support. We developed a digital navigator offering personalized guidance and connecting users to relevant support services with interactive follow-ups to self-assess their well-being. However, evidence regarding feasibility of digital solutions in high-risk patients is limited.

Objective:

Aim of the was assess the feasibility, usability, and preliminary effectiveness of a digital perinatal navigator app designed to provide personalized support and connect pregnant individuals to relevant health and social services.

Methods:

The study was conducted at the University Women’s Hospital Heidelberg to assess an app-based health service program. Using convenience sampling, eligible participants tested the perinatal guide for two weeks. A convergent mixed-methods design combined qualitative interviews (n=30) and psychometric questionnaires (n=35) to evaluate feasibility, usability and preliminary effectiveness. Statistical analysis included descriptive evaluations, paired t-tests, and Pearson correlations.

Results:

Participants (median age 33, median gestational age of 30 weeks) reported moderate high rates of stress, anxiety and depressive symptoms. Usability ratings were excellent (median SUS 80; MAUQ 105). Knowledge of HSPs increased significantly (mean +1.2 points, p<.01), with modest improvements in utilization. Qualitative analysis revealed key success factors such as intuitive structure, trustworthy medical content, and personalized information. Technical disruptions, navigation challenges, limited personalization, and incomplete regional integration of healthcare services were reported as barriers.

Conclusions:

The results indicate high feasibility and acceptance for our digital navigator in this high-risk population. The identified barriers are to be considered in the further development of the app and other perinatal digital care programs.