Maternal Obesity Management Using Mobile Technology: A Feasibility Study to Evaluate a Text Messaging Based Complex...

Area of Science:

• Maternal Health
• Digital Health Interventions
• Obesity Management

Background:

• Maternal obesity and excessive gestational weight gain (GWG) present significant risks to pregnancy and birth outcomes.
• Limited research exists on managing GWG using accessible technologies.
• The MOMTech study addresses this gap by investigating a mobile technology-based intervention.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the feasibility of a text messaging-based intervention for managing GWG in obese women (BMI ≥ 30).
• To assess the acceptability of the intervention among participants.
• To explore potential improvements for future trials.

Main Methods:

• The intervention involved daily text messages, four midwife appointments, lifestyle goal setting, and self-monitoring diaries.
• A comparison group of obese mothers provided routinely collected data.
• Postnatal interviews and focus groups were conducted with both participants and the comparison group.

Main Results:

• Participants achieved a lower mean GWG (6.65 kg) compared to the comparison group (9.74 kg).
• A smaller proportion of participants exceeded the recommended GWG limit (28% vs. 50%).
• Statistical analysis was not possible due to the small sample size (14 completers).

Conclusions:

• The MOMTech intervention is feasible in a clinical setting and acceptable for supporting women in limiting GWG.
• Modifications to recruitment, text messages, and consultation logistics are planned for future trials.
• This approach shows promise for managing GWG in obese pregnant women.