Postpartum Recovery Garments: A Systematic Scoping Review Integrating Ergonomics and User-Centered Design
Main Article Content
Keywords
postpartum recovery garments, ergonomics, user-centered design, compression garments, functional apparel
Abstract
With a focus on ergonomics and user-centered design, this study aims to systematically examine the literature on postpartum recovery clothing and related functional wear. A comprehensive scoping review of papers published between 2005 and 2025 was conducted using a number of databases, including Scopus, Web of Science, ScienceDirect, SpringerLink, PubMed, Google Scholar, and CNKI. 53 studies were included using a methodical screening procedure. The findings were categorized into five major themes: user-centered design and wear experience; ergonomic considerations in the design of functional clothing; compression garments and support systems; changes in the body following childbirth and the need for recuperation; methodological limitations and evidence gaps. The results show that there is little integration between ergonomic analysis and user-centered assessment in the clinical, physiological, and design domains of current research. An integrated conceptual framework that links body shape, ergonomic requirements, compression and material selections, garment structure, and user feedback in a self-replicating design process is proposed to close this gap. By providing direction for future interdisciplinary research and practice, this study contributes to the development of a more systematic and evidence-based framework for postpartum recovery clothing design.
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