In the need of a digital cicerone in healthcare? – Guidance for parents

OBJECTIVE: To explore parents’ experiences using digital tools in relation to pregnancy, labor and birth, and the child’s first 18 months. BACKGROUND: Parents find relevant information using digital healthcare tools, material obtained from professionals, as well as personal opinions and experiences that vary in quality. METHOD: Fifteen parents were interviewed and data were analyzed beginning with content analysis and followed by thematic analysis. RESULTS: The main theme was insecurity and responsibility for own choices and knowledge. Parents use digital tools to take responsibility for their insecurity and need for knowledge when entering parenthood. CONCLUSION: The parents’ experiences highlighted that (1) insecurity can be both eased and enhanced using digital tools, (2) they took responsibility for feelings of insecurity and the search for knowledge, and (3) they needed knowledge to make the right choices and feel secure that these choices are made in the best interest of their new family.