Digital parenting is about finding balance

Over the past generation, the path to parenthood has increasingly involved digital technology.

Expectant parents who aim to get pregnant, whether “naturally” or through assisted reproductive technology, often choose pregnancy apps that help track hormones and menstrual cycles to determine the peak of fertility. After pregnancy occurs, pregnancy practices come into play. Parents-to-be can record their baby’s movements as well as doctor appointments, symptoms, sleep quality, physical activity and diet information.

As pregnancy progresses, opportunities for technological interaction expand. A growing number of parents are getting 4D ultrasounds to see realistic images of their child in the womb; this is often advertised as a “unique bonding experience” and shipped home with a collection of images on USB.