TELEMEDICINE 2027 Open access

Digital health support for pregnancy and breastfeeding: insights from the “Women and Maternity: Development of a Nutritional Education Project - MATER” app

F. Sottotetti,1 I. Bianco,1 M. Cremaschi,2 D. Chieregato,2 G. Volontè,2 F. Loperfido,1 D. El Masri,1 B. Maccarini,1 C. Ferrara,1 H. Cena,1,3 R. De Giuseppe1 | 1Laboratory of Dietetics and Clinical Nutrition, Department of Public Health, Experimental and Forensic Medicine, University of Pavia; 2Department of Computer Science, Systems, and Communication, University of Milano-Bicocca, Milan; 3Clinical Nutrition Unit, General Medicine, IRCCS Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri, Pavia, Italy

Authors

Published
28 January 2026
Section
TELEMEDICINE 2027
DOI
10.4081/gimle.756

Abstract

Digitalising a Lifestyle Educational Intervention within the First 1000 Days window1 is addressed through the MATER app, a user-centred tool designed to increase women’s awareness of healthy lifestyle practices during pregnancy and breastfeeding.2 The app combines evidence-based micro-learning content, interactive and gamified modules, and self-monitoring features to support nutrition and behaviour choices over time. Building on evidence that digital health can reduce access barriers and strengthen communication, MATER aims to provide continuous, low-threshold support that complements routine care. The app will be tested through a pilot study assessing usability, user engagement, and preliminary effects on maternal knowledge and health-related behaviours. By embedding digital education into antenatal and postnatal pathways, MATER seeks to foster women’s empowerment and contribute to improved maternal and neonatal outcomes.

Keywords

References

  1. 1. Scott JA. The first 1000 days: A critical period of nutritional opportunity and vulnerability. Nutr Diet 2020;77:295-7.
  2. 2. World Health Organization. Nutrition counselling during pregnancy. eLENA. 2023. Available form: https://www.who.int/tools/elena/interventions/nutrition-counselling-pregnancy
  3. 3. WHO Regional Office for Europe. The role of digital health technologies in women’s health, empowerment and gender equality. Project report. 2024 Licence: CC BY-NC-SA 3.0 IGO.

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