Abstract
BackgroundDespite evidence of the benefits of breastfeeding, <15% of Australian babies are exclusively breastfed to the recommended 6 months. The support of the father is one of the most important factors in breastfeeding success, and targeting breastfeeding interventions to the father has been a successful strategy in previous research. Mobile technology offers unique opportunities to engage and reach populations to enhance health literacy and healthy behavior.ObjectiveThe objective of our study was to use previous research, formative evaluation, and behavior change theory to develop the first evidence-based breastfeeding app targeted at men. We designed the app to provide men with social support and information aiming to increase the support men can offer their breastfeeding partners.MethodsWe used social cognitive theory to design and develop the Milk Man app through stages of formative research, testing, and iteration. We held focus groups with new and expectant fathers (n=18), as well as health professionals (n=16), and used qualitative data to inform the design and development of the app. We tested a prototype with fathers (n=4) via a think-aloud study and the completion of the Mobile Application Rating Scale (MARS).ResultsFathers and health professionals provided input through the focus groups that informed the app development. The think-aloud walkthroughs identified 6 areas of functionality and usability to be addressed, including the addition of a tutorial, increased size of text and icons, and greater personalization. Testers rated the app highly, and the average MARS score for the app was 4.3 out of 5.ConclusionsTo our knowledge, Milk Man is the first breastfeeding app targeted specifically at men. The development of Milk Man followed a best practice approach, including the involvement of a multidisciplinary team and grounding in behavior change theory. It tested well with end users during development. Milk Man is currently being trialed as part of the Parent Infant Feeding Initiative (ACTRN12614000605695).
Highlights
BreastfeedingBreastfeeding is universally recognized as the optimal way for babies to receive nutrition, and breastfeeding offers many well-documented health benefits for both mother and baby [1,2,3,4]
We developed the Milk Man app to be trialed as part of the Parent Infant Feeding Initiative (PIFI), which has been previously described [65] (ACTRN12614000605695)
This paper focuses on the Milk Man app, http://mhealth.jmir.org/2016/2/e81/
Summary
BreastfeedingBreastfeeding is universally recognized as the optimal way for babies to receive nutrition, and breastfeeding offers many well-documented health benefits for both mother and baby [1,2,3,4]. Scott et al reported that a woman’s partner has an important influence on the mother’s decision to initiate and to continue breastfeeding [11] These findings were reinforced in 2015 with data from the Australian Infant Feeding Survey, which found that multiple factors have an impact on breastfeeding cessation, with the most influential factors being the partner’s views, the use of pacifiers, and maternal obesity [6]. Objective: The objective of our study was to use previous research, formative evaluation, and behavior change theory to develop the first evidence-based breastfeeding app targeted at men. The development of Milk Man followed a best practice approach, including the involvement of a multidisciplinary team and grounding in behavior change theory. It tested well with end users during development. Milk Man is currently being trialed as part of the Parent Infant Feeding Initiative (ACTRN12614000605695)
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