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Design and Product Development

Apron Gown Research and Development Process for Home Labor and Delivery Midwives

Authors
  • Irma D Villanueva orcid logo (California State Polytechnic University, Pomona)
  • Rachel Jean Eike orcid logo (Iowa State University)

Abstract

Home labor and delivery (HLD) saw its largest increase in 30 years during the pandemic, with midwives as primary practitioners. Common medical personal protective equipment (PPE) is not chosen by midwives due to its immediate resemblance to a clinical environment. Aprons have been worn as PPE for centuries by midwives. However, current medical PPE aprons for healthcare workers do not meet midwives’ needs for HLD. The purpose of this study was to research, prototype, and propose a PPE apron gown solution for midwives using a user-centered design methodology. Background data collection, including video observations, market research, and a pilot survey, revealed functionality, usability, and look-and-feel requirements. Virtual and physical prototypes of the proposed design were developed and evaluated for fit and functionality. The proposed apron gown in this study is a viable option to enhance midwives’ safety and expectant mothers’ experience in birthing settings where PPE protocols are not required.

Keywords: midwives, PPE, user-centered design, medical apron

How to Cite:

Villanueva, I. D. & Eike, R. J., (2025) “Apron Gown Research and Development Process for Home Labor and Delivery Midwives”, International Textile and Apparel Association Annual Conference Proceedings 81(1). doi: https://doi.org/10.31274/itaa.18642

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Published on
2025-01-15

Peer Reviewed