A new mobile health platform to help pregnant women manage and track their gestational diabetes, has been developed by the CSIRO.

Gestational diabetes occurs in one in eight pregnancies in Australia and can increase the risk of both  complications in pregnancy and birth.

The app called MoTHer, replaces traditional paper-based diary system. Pregnant women can record information in the app such as blood glucose levels, blood pressure, weight, diet and exercise.

The information is uploaded to the linked clinician portal, so their dietitian, diabetes educator, midwife and obstetrician are able to monitor their progress in real time and intervene if required – such as calling a mum-to-be to give specific, immediate advice if their blood glucose levels have changed too much.

The app also includes educational resources to help women understand and manage gestational diabetes.

The mobile health platform was tested in a feasibility study of 40 women at Redland Hospital in Queensland, Australia. It has now been expanded to 1000 patients at Mater Mothers’ Hospital and Redland Hospital in Queensland. Logan and Beaudesert Hospitals in Queensland are also part of the trial.

Health professionals reported better communication with their patients and enabled early intervention when women recorded elevated blood glucose level readings.

You can read more about the app here.

[ENDS]