Toward an intravaginal device to detect risk of preterm labor: a user-centered design approach in Sub-Saharan Africa

Abstract

Plain language summary Prematurity and its complications are the leading cause of death and disability in children under 5 years of age. Up to ten percent of pregnancies in North America and Africa are affected. Screening tests to predict preterm birth (PTB) are insensitive, costly, and often unavailable in low resource settings. A U.S.-based study has developed an intravaginal device to detect preterm labor. In order to assess acceptability and guide development for a low-resource setting, a qualitative study was conducted in Kenya and South Africa. We conducted focus group discussions and interviews with pregnant women, male community members, health care providers and health systems experts. Participants with a personal history of PTB were almost unanimous in support of the proposed device; women with no experience of PTB expressed the greatest degree of reservation. Various potential challenges were identified: discomfort, hygiene, and sexual activity, the need for provider training and attention to country-specific regulatory processes. Design recommendations included preference for a small, soft, pliable device, with a shape that could facilitate easy removal. Stakeholders expressed a strong preference for insertion by providers. These findings reflect the significance of end-user consultation in device design and use.

Keywords

• Preterm labor
• Preterm birth
• Maternal health
• Sub-Saharan Africa
• Medical device development