This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of LactApp in improving breastfeeding self-efficacy among Filipino mothers.

Breastfeeding is crucial for maternal and child health, but Filipino mothers face significant challenges, worsened by the COVID-19 pandemic, which has limited access to traditional breastfeeding support. This study proposes evaluating the LactApp mobile application as a tool to enhance breastfeeding self-efficacy among Filipino mothers and improve nursing education.

The study's objectives include assessing LactApp's effectiveness in boosting mothers' confidence in breastfeeding and identifying gaps in nursing students' breastfeeding education. A mixed-methods approach will be used, combining quantitative assessments (via the Breastfeeding Self-Efficacy Scale-Short Form) and qualitative focus group discussions with mothers and nursing students. The study will also analyze user engagement and common breastfeeding queries to tailor educational content.

Expected outcomes include empowering nursing students with better breastfeeding knowledge, improving maternal support, and integrating digital tools like LactApp into nursing curricula. Ultimately, the study aims to enhance breastfeeding outcomes for Filipino mothers and contribute to improved maternal and child health in the community.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Females aged 16-45, including those who are pregnant or have recently given birth (within the last 12 months).
• Females who are currently seeking breastfeeding support and are open to using the LactApp tool.
• Females who are willing to participate in the study and provide informed consent.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Females who are not intending to breastfeed.
• Females with significant health issues that may impair their ability to use the LactApp tool or participate in the study.
• Females who are not fluent in the language in which the LactApp tool is provided, making it difficult for them to engage with the content.

Filipino mothers who were either pregnant or had children under the age of one, was specifically chosen because these groups are most directly impacted by the challenges of breastfeeding and maternal health, and they are the ideal demographic for studying the effectiveness of breastfeeding interventions such as the LactApp tool.

IPD used in the results publication

Beginning 1 year after publication with no end date

Access to Individual Participant Data (IPD) and supporting information from the study will be granted to researchers, healthcare professionals, and policymakers with a legitimate interest in maternal healthcare. Interested individuals must demonstrate a clear research purpose, such as conducting secondary analyses or developing new interventions. Authorized users will access anonymized IPD, including demographic information and breastfeeding self-efficacy scores, while ensuring participant privacy. Supporting documentation will consist of the study protocol and data collection tools. Access will be managed through a data-sharing agreement to ensure ethical use. Interested parties must submit a formal request outlining their objectives, which will be reviewed by a data-sharing committee. Once approved, users can access the data via a secure online platform, ensuring responsible utilization that advances research and improves maternal healthcare outcomes.