The impact of the LactApp m-Health tool on breastfeeding self-efficacy: a mixed methods study among Filipino mothers.

Because there was no comparison group, the change cannot be separated from the weekly follow-ups and other support given with the app. The intervention included several components at once, including app access, orientation, tips, tracking, community forum, expert support, and weekly check-ins, so LactApp alone cannot be credited. Breastfeeding confidence was self-reported, and the study did not show improved breastfeeding duration, infant health, or long-term practice. Only 280 of the targeted 300 completed both surveys, and the paper noted that 20 participants were excluded from the per-protocol analysis. Subgroup findings for mothers with no formal education and separated mothers were based on very small numbers (5 and 2). The app was used in English, and mothers who were not fluent in the app language were excluded. Qualitative findings came from 30 purposively selected mothers, so they may not represent all Filipino mothers in this setting.

The authors declared no conflicts of interest, and no funding was reported.

Do not conclude that LactApp alone improved breastfeeding confidence because there was no comparison group and mothers also received setup help and weekly follow-up. The measured result was self-reported confidence, not breastfeeding duration or infant health.