Exploring the lived experiences of women in rural Kenya: designing interactive health interventions for maternal self-management

To inform developing interactive tools for maternal health, this thesis focused on the complex realities of pregnant women in rural Kenya. An extensive literature review and initial fieldwork investigate the emerging roles of wearable technology within constructivist and patient-centered frameworks. Two significant findings emerged: firstly, the critical alignment of wearable technology with the specific needs and experiences of these women; secondly, the challenges of healthcare accessibility, affordability, and cultural barriers, which, while focused on rural Kenya, resonate with similar issues in rural North America. These findings highlight the potential for profound global impacts on maternal health monitoring. The insights gained lay the groundwork for future longitudinal research aimed at systematically enhancing maternal health outcomes and reducing neonatal mortality through iterative, community-involved participatory approaches. The study can involve local communities in the development process, ensuring that solutions are culturally appropriate and directly address the users' needs.