OB Nest: Reimagining Low-Risk Prenatal Care

Area of Science:

• Maternal Health
• Human-Centered Design
• Digital Health

Background:

• Traditional prenatal care models can be medicalized and inflexible.
• There is a need for supportive, empowering pregnancy care models.
• Integrating technology can enhance patient engagement and communication.

Purpose of the Study:

• To envision and explore a new model of care for low-risk pregnancies, named OB Nest.
• To demedicalize pregnancy by offering a supportive, empowering patient experience.
• To integrate self-monitoring tools, digital communication, and community support into prenatal care.

Main Methods:

• Human-centered design principles were employed.
• Participants used self-monitoring tools and a smartphone application for care team communication.
• Moderated online communities facilitated peer-to-peer support among pregnant women.

Main Results:

• Self-measurement tools and fetal heart monitors increased patient confidence and active participation.
• The smartphone app improved communication continuity and accessibility with care teams.
• Online communities fostered a sense of community and shared knowledge beyond clinical visits.

Conclusions:

• The OB Nest model redistributes care, offering personalized support and flexible access to healthcare providers.
• Enabling meaningful patient participation in prenatal care has the potential for cost savings and enhanced satisfaction.
• This model demonstrates the value of integrating technology and community into maternal healthcare.