Every new parent in Greater Manchester is to get free access to an app which will give them 24/7 support with infant feeding.
Called Anya, the software allows women/birthing people to use a suite of 3D animations to help them successfully breastfeed their child.
Parents can also access evidence-based support through Anya AI, the app’s virtual supporter, and they can speak to an expert direct if they need more help.
From March 18, the premium version of the app will be available to parents expecting a child who live in a Greater Manchester and eastern Cheshire postcode, and up to three months after the birth.
This has been funded thanks to the collaboration between the Greater Manchester and Eastern Cheshire Local Maternity and Neonatal System (LMNS) and Anya.
Feedback from users of Anya
One new mum outside the city region who has already used the app, Mandy, from Preston, said: “I have found the Anya AI assistant incredibly helpful in terms of understanding recovery, and the 3D models have given me a really clear idea of how to ensure a good latch in various positions which has made me feel more confident about breast feeding.”
Eileen Stringer, clinical lead midwife for the Greater Manchester and Eastern Cheshire Strategic Clinical Networks, said: “We hope thousands of women will find this app really useful and help to reduce the stress of breastfeeding, especially if it isn’t working out initially.
“The app will act like a friendly midwife at home, answering questions and using the latest research and evidence to help them.”
Emilie House, client success lead at Anya, said: “We are delighted to have the opportunity to work with the Greater Manchester and Eastern Cheshire teams, and to support families across the region.”
Some features on the app are free to use, but premium access will allow people to use all the support tools.