BUMP2.0 Feasibility Study
Many women gain more weight than advised during pregnancy, which can sometimes lead to health problems for them and their baby. This study is testing a new phone app, called BUMP, designed to help women weigh themselves regularly at home and track their weight gain during pregnancy. The app also gives feedback on whether their weight gain is within healthy ranges and points to useful resources. Researchers want to see if women will use the app regularly from early pregnancy until birth, and how well the study processes work. This is a first step to see if a larger study should be done to check if the app truly helps women manage their weight and improve health.
At a glance
What is this study about?
During pregnancy, it's normal and healthy to gain some weight. However, gaining more weight than recommended can sometimes lead to health issues for both the mother and the baby. While many women are aware that controlling their weight is important, this topic isn't always discussed regularly with their healthcare team during antenatal appointments.
Previous studies have tried different ways to help women manage weight gain in pregnancy, like regular weigh-ins with midwives or self-weighing. However, these often haven't worked well, either because the studies were too small, women didn't stick to the plan, or they didn't get enough helpful advice. More extensive programmes that have been successful in managing weight during pregnancy have sometimes been quite costly or demanding for the women involved.
This study, called BUMP2.0, is exploring a new approach using a mobile app. The BUMP app is designed to help pregnant women weigh themselves at home regularly and easily track their progress. It provides feedback on whether their weight gain is within, above, or below the recommended ranges and suggests helpful resources. The main aim of this current study is to check if it's practical for women to use the app regularly throughout their pregnancy and how well they engage with it. Researchers will also look at how smoothly the study itself runs and gather participants' experiences through optional interviews. If this smaller 'feasibility' study shows promising results, the next step would be a larger study to see if the app can truly help women manage their weight and improve health outcomes for mothers and babies.
Key takeaways
- This study tests a new app to help pregnant women track weight.
- It aims to see if women will use the app regularly throughout pregnancy.
- The app gives feedback on whether weight gain is within healthy ranges.
- Participants need an internet-enabled smartphone/tablet and weighing scales.
- This is a first step to see if a larger study should be done on the app's effectiveness.
Who may be eligible?
To be able to take part in this study, you need to be pregnant with one baby and be less than 20 weeks into your pregnancy. You must be at least 18 years old.
You also need to have access to a smartphone or tablet with internet so you can use the study app, and you'll need your own weighing scales at home. Being able to understand and communicate in English is also required to participate.
This study is specifically looking for pregnant women who fit these descriptions.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Are you currently less than 20 weeks pregnant?
- Are you pregnant with one baby (not twins or more)?
- Are you 18 years old or older?
- Do you have a smartphone or tablet with internet access?
- Do you have your own weighing scales at home?
- Can you communicate in English?
What does participation involve?
If you decide to take part, you would use a special BUMP app on your smartphone or tablet from early to mid-pregnancy until your baby is born. The main activity is regularly weighing yourself at home and recording your weight in the app. The app will then give you feedback on your weight gain compared to recommended ranges and link you to helpful information. We'll be checking how often you use the app and record your weight. Some participants may also be invited to an optional interview after the study to share their experiences of using the app. The total duration of your participation would be from when you join the study until you deliver your baby.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of OxfordVerified postcodeOxford, United Kingdom
Common questions
What is the BUMP app?
It's a mobile phone app designed to help pregnant women track their weight gain at home, provide feedback, and point to useful resources.
Why is this study being done?
We want to see if women will regularly use an app to track their weight during pregnancy and if this could be a helpful way to manage weight gain, as many women gain more weight than recommended.
Do I have to share my data with my doctor?
No, the study is focused on your personal use of the app and tracking your engagement with it. It doesn't involve sharing your data directly with your clinical team.
What happens if I gain too much or too little weight?
The app provides feedback, but it's important to discuss any concerns about your weight or health with your midwife or doctor, as the app does not provide medical advice.
What if I change my mind about participating?
You are free to leave the study at any time, without needing a reason, and this won't affect your medical care.
How to find out more
Moscho Michalopoulou
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
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