Usability and Perception of a Wearable-Integrated Digital Maternity Record App in Germany: User Study

Area of Science:

• Digital health
• Maternal health technology
• Usability studies

Background:

• Previous evaluations of digital maternity records (DMRs) have not included observational usability studies.
• Assessing the usability and acceptance of a DMR smartphone app is crucial for its effective implementation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the usability and user perception of a novel digital maternity record (DMR) smartphone application among pregnant women.
• To explore pregnant women's preferences regarding online health information, wearable technology, at-home examinations, and data sharing for research.

Main Methods:

• A DMR smartphone app with features like wearable device integration and study functionalities was developed.
• Eleven women with prior childbirth experience participated in usability testing, completing tasks while thinking aloud.
• System Usability Scale (SUS), User Experience Questionnaire (UEQ), and semistructured interviews were used to collect data.

Main Results:

• The DMR app achieved a mean SUS score of 79.09, indicating good usability.
• The app was rated "above average" in 4 out of 6 User Experience Questionnaire categories.
• While 50% of participants would only use wearables if medically advised, 91% were willing to share data for research.

Conclusions:

• Pregnant women depend on healthcare providers for guidance on using mobile health technology.
• Clear communication of benefits is essential for encouraging the adoption of wearable devices during pregnancy.
• Personalized approaches are needed to address varying opinions on wearable data interpretation and alerts.