Prototypframtagning av hjälpmedel för perineal massage: Så att gravida kvinnor kan utföra massagen självständigt

Abstract

The project was initiated by the company Daya, which is working to accelerate the development of technology that promotes female health and well-being. Daya has identified a need for a tool for pregnant women to perform perineal massage independently. Perineal massage is a massage of the muscles in the perineum, located in the area between a woman's vaginal opening and anus. The massage is recommended to be performed from week 34 during the pregnancy until childbirth, to soften and increase the area's elasticity and, accordingly, lower the risk of perineal rupture. Perineal massage can be difficult to perform on oneself, and since it is an intimate area, it can also be uncomfortable to request help. The purpose of the project was therefore to investigate how an aid for perineal massage could be designed, with the objective of developing a conceptual proposal. The project began with studying the female anatomy associated with childbirth, perineal rupture, and perineal massage. Moreover, extensive interviews with the target group and midwives were carried out, in order to form a deeper understanding of the problem and the target group in general. The preparatory work was finalised by contextualising the problem through a persona with a scenario, utilising the acquired knowledge and inspiration to initiate prototype development. The development followed an iterative approach using the Double-Diamond method, involving idea generation, testing, and evaluation. The result became a 3D-printed prototype with an S-shape. The prototype involves a handle designed to accommodate one or two hands, positioned approximately 20 centimetres from the nozzle, which is intended to be inserted in the vaginal opening. The nozzle is shaped with rounded edges for flexibility and comfort, and it has a curvature at the bottom to simplify access to the area and reduce the effort required by the user. In conclusion, the prototype can, with an appropriate choice of material, result in a finished product that can be utilised as a tool to perform perineal massage independently. Innehållsförteckn