Invention Title:

MENSTRUAL GARMENT ATTACHMENT

Publication number:

US20260294286

Publication date:
Section:

Human necessities

Class:

A61B5/14507

Inventors:

Assignee:

Applicant:

Smart overview of the Invention

A removable menstrual garment attachment is designed for tracking reproductive health biomarkers found in menstrual fluid. This single-use, adhesive diagnostic module can be applied to the exterior of any commercially available menstrual product. It features a detection module that may include a lateral flow immunoassay, electronic sensors, or both, along with a microfluidic system for fluid channeling and optional volume regulation. Additionally, a near-field communication (NFC) chip allows for wireless data transmission to a mobile device application, facilitating longitudinal health tracking.

Field of Invention

The invention pertains to attachable diagnostic devices that can be easily added to and removed from menstrual garment products such as pads, panty liners, and absorbent underwear. These devices aim to improve the accessibility and utility of menstrual fluid biomarker detection, addressing the challenges faced by current diagnostic methods.

Background

Current diagnostic methods for reproductive health conditions, like endometriosis, are limited. Existing technologies either require complex electronic components, remote laboratory analysis, or reusable designs that are costly and require maintenance. The need for a single-use, noninvasive device that provides lab-free detection of reproductive health biomarkers is significant, as it would enhance accessibility and reduce costs associated with traditional diagnostic approaches.

Summary

The menstrual garment attachment is a self-contained analytical system applied to menstrual products. It performs detection steps within the device, providing a user-readable output without needing sample transfer to a laboratory. The device includes a housing with an adhesive backing, a detection module for analyte detection, and a microfluidic system for fluid channeling. A translucent polymer layer covers part of the detection module, enhancing user interaction.

Technical Details

  • The detection module may include a lateral flow immunoassay or electrochemical sensors.
  • Optional wings and clasps provide additional security for attachment.
  • The translucent polymer layer is hydrophobic, optically transparent, and biocompatible.
  • A near-field communication (NFC) chip transmits data to a mobile application for longitudinal tracking.
  • The mobile app can store and aggregate data, providing personalized health monitoring by comparing current biomarker levels to historical patterns.