Pregnancy is an exciting and highly anticipated journey for many married couples. For women, especially newlyweds, pregnancy is a thrilling new experience. By using pregnancy apps, expecting mothers can access essential information about pregnancy and navigate this journey with greater confidence and peace of mind
What Features Do Pregnancy Apps Offer?
For first-time mothers, it is common to have numerous questions about pregnancy. Sometimes, an in-person consultation with a doctor may not fully address all concerns.
With advancements in technology, expectant mothers can now use pregnancy apps to assist them throughout their pregnancy. Many of these apps offer various features that help monitor the health of both the mother and the fetus.
Features available in the pregnancy app include:
Doctor Appointment Reminders
From the beginning of pregnancy, expectant mothers are encouraged to attend regular prenatal check-ups. In the early stages, these check-ups are typically scheduled once a month.
During prenatal visits, healthcare providers conduct general health assessments, including blood pressure monitoring, weight checks, fundal height measurements, and evaluations of maternal nutritional status. Additionally, tetanus immunization status may be reviewed, and vaccination may be administered if necessary. As the fetus develops, prenatal visits also include monitoring the fetal heart rate.
Recognizing the importance of regular check-ups, many pregnancy apps include a reminder feature to help expectant mothers keep track of their appointments. This feature is particularly useful for those who may experience forgetfulness during pregnancy.
Also read: The Science Behind Pregnancy Brain
Fetal Development Updates
One of the most sought-after features in pregnancy apps is weekly fetal development updates. These updates provide information on the fetus’s estimated length, weight, and overall growth progress.
Relaxation Exercises
Pregnant women, especially first-time mothers, are more susceptible to stress due to hormonal changes and concerns about labor and pregnancy. Some apps offer guided relaxation exercises, including breathing techniques that can be beneficial in preparation for labor.
Contraction Timer
Pregnancy apps typically include a contraction tracking feature for pregnant women in their third trimester.
You can customize contraction tracking based on the 5-1-1 pattern, which refers to contractions occurring every 5 minutes, lasting at least 1 minute each, for a duration of 1 hour. When this contraction pattern is observed, it may indicate that the mother should prepare for hospital admission for labor.
In addition to contraction tracking, pregnancy apps often provide a feature to monitor fetal movements. Fetal movements are generally assessed by timing how long it takes to feel 10 kicks or other movements. Typically, fetal movement is considered normal if 10 movements are felt within 2 hours or less.
Fetal movement patterns can vary, but a significant decrease or change in movement should prompt an immediate consultation with a healthcare provider.
Baby Care Information
Pregnancy apps often provide essential information on newborn care to help expectant mothers prepare for childbirth. This may include guidance on routine newborn care, common infant health concerns, and recommended treatments.
Pregnancy apps can be valuable tools that make pregnancy management easier. By using these apps, expectant mothers can stay informed about potential pregnancy complications and recognize warning signs early.
However, while pregnancy apps provide useful information, they should not replace professional medical advice. If you require medical consultation, you can visit a healthcare provider or utilize the consultation features available in the Ai Care application. Download the Ai Care app from the App Store or Play Store for further assistance.
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- dr. Pandu Lesmana
Lindberg, S. (2021). Should You Try a Pregnancy App?. Available from: https://www.verywellfamily.com/pregnancy-apps-4685312#
Hui, K., Modglin, L. (2023). Best Pregnancy Apps. Available from: https://www.verywellfamily.com/best-pregnancy-apps-5097399#
Hughson, J. P., Daly, J. O., Woodward-Kron, R., Hajek, J., & Story, D. (2018). The Rise of Pregnancy Apps and the Implications for Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Women: Narrative Review. JMIR mHealth and uHealth, 6(11), e189. https://doi.org/10.2196/mhealth.9119/