The Skill, initially available on Google and Amazon smart phones and speakers, is able to answer a wide range of personal questions that can cause many pregnant women anxiety or embarrassment. The answers offer information around topics such as antenatal depression, maternity leave and morning sickness – offering expectant mothers the reassurance they need, from an evidence-based source they can trust. For any serious issues raised by the user, the Skill signposts to sources of further support such as NHS services.
With coronavirus being a huge concern now and in the coming months, the Tommy’s Skill enables parents to be to ask specific questions about how the COVID-19 virus may affect pregnant women and unborn children[1].
The Tommy’s skill can understand natural language to answer questions such as: “What effect can coronavirus have on my baby?” or “can corona virus pass from me to my baby?” – and the response will be based on the latest advice from the UK government, the NHS, RCOG (Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists) and RCM (Royal College of Midwives)[2].
The Skill also covers topics including mental health, with supportive advice which may be of particular assistance while pregnant women are encouraged to self-isolate during this difficult period.
Mindshare has worked with Tommy’s to create over 400 Q&As on the often complex and private questions surrounding pregnancy, recognising that when mothers-to-be need quick support, they need credible sources of information about their personal health.