Exploratory study of post-breastfeeding bra user needs and prototype design
Date
2021
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Publisher
University of Delaware
Abstract
The bra industry has a complicated size measuring system that is not universal. With the body changes, women after pregnancy and breastfeeding have a difficult time finding the right fitting bra, or a bra that fits their needs. The purpose of this study was to investigate specific user needs of post-breastfeeding women of various ages and bra sizes and develop an understanding of design requirements for an everyday use bra via wear trials of customized bra prototypes. The User-Centered Design (UCD) framework was used. Surveys from forty-nine participants recruited through Facebook parent groups were used to map out user needs. Three focus group participants were asked to measure themselves using emailed guidelines, and a self-measuring kit mailed to their homes. Three bra designs were proposed, and the participants provided feedback on each design via a survey. Custom prototypes were developed using industry standard flat patterning methods. The participants wore their current favorite everyday bra for 24 hours, then the customized prototype bra for 24 hours, providing feedback in a wear-test survey. Qualitative data analysis was used to evaluate the success of the prototypes and report on specific user needs. A second prototype was made for two participants based on the feedback given. The results showed that the customized bras were partially successful, and valuable user feedback insights were collected. ☐ This study was conducted during the COVID-19 pandemic and followed protocols to ensure the safety of the participants and researchers.
Description
Keywords
Bra, Breast, Customization, Maternity, Post-breastfeeding, User-centered design