Date of Award

6-13-2026

Document Type

Thesis

Publisher

Santa Clara : Santa Clara University, 2026

Department

Bioengineering

First Advisor

Emre Araci

Abstract

Our point-of-care hormone monitoring device for postpartum health assessment uses paper-based microfluidics to provide an accessible and affordable hormone monitoring tool, tracking biomarkers correlated with postpartum depression (PPD). The device features a 3D-printed spring-box housing and platform containing chromatography paper testing sheets that are lined with polydimethulsiloxane (PDMS) and wax paper, embedded with specific reagents that generate colorimetric hormone readouts from saliva samples. This device was motivated by the need to address critical shortcomings in PPD care, where societal stigma surrounding mental health and reliance on self-reporting diagnostic methods prevent mothers from truthfully reporting symptoms and receiving timely support and treatment during postpartum recovery. Driven by our shared passion and commitment to advancing women’s health, our team sought to apply our bioengineering backgrounds to develop a meaningful innovation that could improve postpartum care and positively impact women’s lives and long-term health.

Download

Share

COinS