Empowering Nursing Mothers: A Bioinspired Wearable Breast Pump Fostering Emotional and Physiological Well-being.

Abstract

Breastfeeding provides irreplaceable nutritional, immunological, and psychological benefits to both mother and child. However, sociocultural barriers, unfavorable work conditions, and lack of supportive infrastructure often force women to rely on breast pumps—devices that, despite their prevalence, remain limited in mimicking the physiological and emotional dynamics of natural lactation. Prior research has largely focused on mechanical performance and milk volume, neglecting the maternal psychological experience. This study addresses that gap through the development of Nura, a smart, wearable breast pump designed with psychophysiological principles in mind.Using the Double Diamond methodology, the design process integrated user-centered design, market analysis, anthropometric data, and expert interviews. A functional prototype was developed through 3D printing, incorporating custom flanges, adaptive heating and massage elements, a mobile application for control and tracking, and a modular PCB architecture for improved ergonomics. User testing was conducted to assess anatomical fit, usability, and emotional perception of the device.Results show that Nura improves user comfort through an anatomically adapted flange, reduces emotional distress via sensory features (heat and vibration), and offers improved discretion and usability through a custom wearable bra. The application interface successfully enhanced user engagement and enabled personalized lactation profiles. Feedback revealed reduced stress, increased feelings of control, and better alignment between technological functionality and maternal identity.These findings suggest that lactation support technologies must evolve to consider not only mechanical efficiency but also the psychological dimensions of motherhood. Nura’s design advances understanding of how product experience influences maternal well-being, bonding, and breastfeeding sustainability—especially among mothers who rely on exclusive pumping. Moreover, it underscores the importance of empathy-driven engineering in women's health technologies.This research contributes to improving maternal health (SDG 3), promoting gender equality (SDG 5), and supporting decent work and workplace inclusivity (SDG 8) by facilitating breastfeeding continuity without compromising personal or professional life. As a replicable and scalable model, Nura offers a new standard for human-centered innovation in maternal care.

Keywords: Breastfeeding, Breast Pump, Women’s Health, Human-Centered Design, Maternal Well-being, Wearable Medical Device, Psychophysiology

DOI: 10.54941/ahfe1007258