Thesis Question: Within women’s reproductive health care, how can the gynecological experience be redesigned to reduce anxiety, humanize the often-dreaded experience and increase accessibility?
Designer Bio:
Hello, my name is Lily Ernst, and I am from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania! As a young woman, my identity constantly inspires my designs, motivating me to speak my mind, stand up for what I believe in and design for a better future. In addition to pursuing a B.I.D. in industrial and interaction design, I am minoring in disability studies and public communications as well as a part of the Fashion and Beauty Communications Milestone. As a designer, I am most interested in product design, brand development and design research. With a knack for problem solving and a passion for human-centered design, I hope to create products that positively impact someone’s life.
Project Description:
I am currently in the research phase of this project, focusing on better understanding the field and the issues at hand. Half of all American women of reproductive age do not visit their gynecologist annually, and one in 10 women have never been to a gynecologist. The leading reason why is fear of discomfort and embarrassment. Information gathered from surveys I conducted has led me to conclude that the root issue behind gynecological anxiety is the speculum. I am further exploring ways to decrease gaslighting in women’s health, improve doctor patient communication and increase women’s autonomy.
The future of this project can span in many directions. I am looking at redesigning the speculum, primarily focusing on the shape, material, technology and function. This would create a more comfortable experience and alleviate gynecological anxiety. If women no longer fear or dread their appointment, it would motivate them to take back control and seek medical attention. I am currently thinking of creating a kit women can purchase to bring to their gynecologist visit, equipped with the better designed speculum and other items to help improve the experience.
