Effects of mobile apps on maternal weight-related and neonatal birth weight outcomes during pregnancy: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Background Gestational weight gain outside recommended ranges is associated with adverse maternal and neonatal outcomes. Given their widespread use, mobile apps may support weight management during pregnancy. Aim To evaluate the efficacy of mobile apps on maternal weight-related outcomes during pregnancy and neonatal birth weight-related outcomes. Methods We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials evaluating mobile apps for weight management during pregnancy, with searches updated through July 2026. Comparable outcomes were pooled using fixed-effect and random-effects models, with random-effects estimates prioritized. Results Twelve studies involving 3778 pregnant women were included. Mobile apps decrease the gestational weight (MD -0.67 kg; CI95% -1 to 0) and birth weight (MD -32 g; CI95% -140 to 75). However, a paradoxical trend was observed in which mobile apps appeared to reduce the risk of excessive maternal weight (RR 0.81; CI95% 0.66-1.00), while at the same time increased risk of inadequate maternal weight (RR 1.02; CI95% 0.67–1.54). This trend was also reflected in neonatal outcomes, as the risk of newborns being large for gestational age (RR 0.73; CI95% 0.54-1.00) and weight > 4000 g (RR 0.90; CI95% 0.74–1.09) appeared to decrease, whereas the risk of being small for gestational age (RR 1.22; CI95% 0.93–1.59) and birth weight < 2500 g (RR 1.41; CI95% 0.93–2.14) increased. Conclusions Evidence on mobile apps for gestational weight management remains heterogeneous, suggesting potential benefits and harms. More precise evidence is needed to clarify clinical relevance and their implications for clinical practice. Clinical trial number PROSPERO CRD42023458719.