Elithiya

What it does

Elithiya is a gentle, balloon-assisted IUD inserter paired with a companion app that supports users emotionally and practically before, during, and after the procedure. Designed to reduce pain and fear, it offers a more empowering contraceptive experience

Your inspiration

This project began with conversations. Friends and people close to me shared their IUD stories some cried, fainted, and many described the experience as traumatic. I was shocked to learn that despite IUDs being over 99% effective, so many avoid them because of the pain involved in insertion. Hearing these stories and seeing how normalised that pain has become made me think that there has to be an easier way. So I decided to redesign the process to make it more supported, comfortable and patient centred.

How it works

Elithiya works in a similar way to a balloon catheter, which is commonly used in other areas of medicine to gently widen narrow passages in the body. At the tip of the handheld inserter is a soft, inflatable balloon. Once inserted into the cervical canal, the balloon is gradually inflated using a built-in pressure-control mechanism. This gently dilates the cervix in a controlled way, replacing the need for more forceful mechanical tools like tenaculums or rigid dilators. Once dilation is complete, the balloon is deflated and the IUD can be inserted with less resistance and pain. The device is designed to be single-use and recyclable. The system is made up of two parts: a reusable ergonomic handle that houses the inflation mechanism, and a single-use, replaceable catheter that includes the balloon, tubing and IUD. It is paired with a companion app that supports users emotionally and practically. Elithiya is a supported, and gentler IUD experience.

Design process

I began by mapping the IUD journey and identifying where users feel most vulnerable. I conducted interviews with users, clinicians, gynaecologists, and FemTech founders to build a full picture of what’s currently missing from the experience. I tested different soft-material mechanisms and inflation systems before settling on balloon dilation. Early prototypes involved balloon testing in silicone cervical models and experimenting with different inflation control systems. Sketching and physical prototype iterations helped refine the design’s form and usability, particularly around single-handed use. The app concept was developed in parallel, informed by user feedback around a lack of information and emotional support. I tested low-fi wireframes with users to shape content, tone, and features.

How it is different

Elithiya is the first IUD inserter to combine balloon-based dilation with a supportive digital tool. Most IUD inserters today still rely on rigid, one-size-fits-all tools with no patient-centered feedback or innovation. Elithiya introduces empathy into a space that’s long lacked it, offering both physical and emotional relief. The design also considers environmental impact, with modular parts that can be disassembled. Its companion app extends care beyond the clinic, it gives the patient ongoing support, care and guides them along the journey.

Future plans

I’m currently working with the IGNITE Start-Up Incubation Programme at University College Cork to further develop Elithiya into a commercially viable product. My next steps include building a refined prototype and beginning early-stage clinical evaluations in collaboration with healthcare innovation teams. I’m also working to further develop the companion app into a full MVP with support from mentors in digital health. My long-term goal is to bring Elithiya to market as a medical device and transform the IUD experience globally. I see Elithiya growing into a women’s health innovation startup that designs care that women actually want.

Awards

HSE Design on the Frontline Winner 2025 Runner up University of Limerick Logitech Designer of the Year