Determining the usage preferences and expectations of postpartum women regarding mobile applications developed for the postpartum period

BACKGROUND: The postpartum period is a critical time when women need information and support for both their own health and newborn care. Mobile health applications can significantly improve access to information during the postpartum period. However, the effectiveness of such applications depends on understanding postpartum women's usage preferences and expectations. Existing evidence on postpartum mobile health applications is largely derived from studies conducted in South Asian and East African contexts, highlighting the need for context-specific data from Türkiye. This study aimed to determine the usage preferences and expectations of postpartum women regarding mobile applications developed for the postpartum period. METHODS: This descriptive study was conducted with 385 postpartum women in Istanbul, Türkiye. Data were collected between October 2024 and February 2025 using a structured Descriptive Information Form prepared by the researchers. The form included items related to sociodemographic characteristics, obstetric characteristics, and opinions regarding the use of mobile applications during the postpartum period. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, chi-square and multivariate logistic regression analysis. RESULTS: Willingness to use mobile applications was significantly associated with age, educational level, income status, parity, and mode of birth. The most frequently requested application content included newborn care (45.5%), common newborn problems and their management (42.9%), and emergency situations related to maternal and newborn health (40.5%). Participants also emphasized the importance of applications providing reliable, clear, and up-to-date information. CONCLUSION: Postpartum women have specific preferences and expectations regarding mobile health applications designed for the postpartum period. Developing user-centered mobile applications that prioritize newborn care and emergency-related content may support postpartum health services and enhance maternal and newborn health outcomes.