Infant Feeding Tracker Applications: Cross-Sectional Analysis of Use

Abstract

ObjectiveExamine the extent to which postpartum patients use infant feeding tracker applications (apps), characteristics of app users, and app features most used and desired. DesignCross-sectional survey. SettingAn obstetrics/gynecology practice in Northern New Jersey in 2019. ParticipantsOne hundred twenty-six patients aged ≥ 18 years recruited during their 6-week postpartum visit. Main Outcome MeasuresSelf-reported sociodemographics, infant feeding behaviors, and health app use. Respondents were grouped by self-reported use of an infant feeding tracker app. AnalysisFrequencies were calculated for descriptive analysis, and comparisons were made between user groups. Fisher's exact tests of independence were used to analyze categorical data. Mann-Whitney U tests were employed for continuous variables (significance at P < 0.002). ResultsFifty-seven percent of respondents reported using an app to track infant feeding. Compared with nonusers, users were more likely to have an infant who was ever breastfed (P = 0.001; Cramer's V = 0.30) and exclusively breastfed (P < 0.001; Cramer's V = 0.44). Users also used significantly more health apps than nonusers (P < 0.001). Most respondents used the app to track infant feeding, diapering, and sleep. Conclusions and ImplicationsGiven their frequency of use—particularly among those who breastfeed—infant feeding tracker apps have the potential to support parents in meeting their infant feeding goals.