Lay summary
The development of the first indigenous breastfeeding digital application during the COVID pandemic exemplifies Māori women at the forefront of developing innovative solutions to support whānau with breastfeeding. A Health Research Council Activation Grant helped to review its accessibility, usability and content, as well as how the app supported the breastfeeding journey. Findings confirmed that for Māori, a holistic Kaupapa Māori approach to breastfeeding is central to healing from trauma and strengthening the intergenerational transmission of knowledge and practices. Results also confirmed that mHealth resources need to be accurate, free and easily accessible, be engaging and interactive, and practical.
The research recommends further promotion of the app with additional online support, integration into local and national breastfeeding services, and use within training and education for health professionals. This application is to implement the recommendations to update and enhance the app content and interactive functions.