Design and Development of a Knitted E-Textile Sensing Garment for Fetal Heart Monitoring

This study presents a knitted e-textile sensing garment designed to monitor fetal heart rate continuously. Unlike current fetal monitoring systems such as cardiotocography (CTG), which are rigid, bulky, immobile, and uncomfortable, our prototype aims to integrate knitted sensing electrodes into a wearable garment, providing visually discreet, long-term monitoring in both home and clinical environments. We created a prototype garment using Shima Seiki flatbed knitting technology and gathered feedback from end users to understand their needs and inform future iterations. Healthcare professionals were surveyed for their views on existing and future requirements for fetal monitoring equipment. Feedback focused on usability, comfort, psychological aspects, and accuracy of data collection. These insights will guide further refinement of the garment, ultimately aiming to develop a practical, accurate, and user-friendly alternative to existing prenatal monitoring technologies, improving comfort, empowering end users, and enhancing fetal and maternal health outcomes.