Amamentacoach application: maternal experiences in breastfeeding premature infants
Abstract
Objective: to understand the experience of mothers using the AmamentaCoach app in the breastfeeding process of premature babies. Method: a qualitative study with semi-structured interviews conducted with ten mothers. The methodological framework adopted was Thematic Content Analysis. The analysis of participants’ statements was guided by the hedonic and pragmatic aspects that make up an explanatory model of User Experience (UX). Results: there was an average of six accesses to the app, with a minimum of one and a maximum of 11 login records. Two categories emerged: “Hedonic potentials and challenges” and “Pragmatic potentials and challenges,” with four and three subcategories, respectively. The app incited curiosity, fulfilment, and fun, provided emotional and tangible support throughout physical separation, and was perceived as a reliable and targeted care tool for premature dyads. Final considerations: To our knowledge, this is the first study worldwide based on a theoretical UX model with mothers of premature babies who used a specific breastfeeding app. In the process toward initiating and establishing breastfeeding, opportunities to spend time on a smartphone may be limited; therefore, the moments a woman devotes to exploring an app should provide a pleasant experience that meets her main needs.
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