Use and User Experience of a Preconception Lifestyle App for Couples Undergoing in Vitro Fertilization: Mixed Methods...

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Medicine
• Digital Health
• Behavioral Science

Background:

• Mobile health apps offer potential for improving healthy lifestyles in individuals with infertility.
• Sufficient user engagement is critical for mobile health apps to impact health outcomes.
• There is an urgent need to identify features that enhance the effectiveness of digital health interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To conduct a process evaluation of the PreLiFe app, a mobile lifestyle application designed for couples undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF).
• To assess the usage patterns and user experience of the PreLiFe app among couples with infertility.
• To identify factors influencing app engagement and user satisfaction.

Main Methods:

• A mixed-methods approach was employed with heterosexual couples undergoing IVF.
• Objective quantitative data on app usage were collected via a tracking system, analyzing use in relation to partner usage and fertility treatment.
• Subjective quantitative data on app acceptability and perceived partner support were gathered through online questionnaires.
• In-depth user experiences were explored through semistructured interviews.

Main Results:

• 106 couples used the PreLiFe app, with usage duration ranging from 2 to 365 days.
• Overall app usage was low; only 18.9% of men and 49.1% of women utilized all modules.
• Higher app engagement correlated with partner usage and periods of fertility treatment.
• The app demonstrated good acceptability (average score 6/10) and users reported feeling supported by partners.
• Qualitative interviews indicated the app was easy to use.

Conclusions:

• The PreLiFe app exhibits favorable acceptability and user experience among couples undergoing IVF.
• Actual objective use of the preconception lifestyle app remains low.
• Future interventions should prioritize personalization and integration with partners, healthcare providers, and patient data systems to enhance app engagement and effectiveness.