Mama Aroha: A research report about a digital breastfeeding resource to improve support for māmā

The development of the first indigenous breastfeeding app Mama Aroha exemplifies Māori women at the forefront of developing whānau ora solutions to support Māori women to breastfeed. This project about the app aimed to activate research to improve ūkaipō knowledge, experiences and outcomes for Māori whānau. After reviewing relevant literature and digital resources the team gathered responses from māmā, whānau and health professionals about the app via a range of methods.

The feedback covered aspects of the app such as accessibility, usability and content, as well as how the app supported the breastfeeding journey. The findings of this research will help to improve the app, its use and promotion, as well as make recommendations to inform the design of effective breastfeeding support for Māori including digital health resources.