MenstaRay, a biomimetic interactive artefact using soft robotic materials, aims to represent intangible and ineffable menstrual pain experiences through bodily and dynamic interactions. In response to often data-driven menstrual technologies following medicalised and quantitative logics, MenstaRay employs its continuous movement to mimic more complex menstrual pain sensations. Inviting people to engage with their menstrual pain in emotional, sensory, and interpretive ways, may create space for individuals to express, share, and reflect on their experiences. The dynamic representation encourages a fluid perspective on menstrual bodies, recognising their ongoing variability and mutability across different menstrual cycles, life stages, and contexts.

We developed the design prototype from three main aspects:

– Design conceptualisation: (1) participants frequently used marine creatures as metaphors to express the ambivalent qualities of pain, such as a jellyfish (beautiful yet invasive). Similarly, the manta ray possesses an elegant aesthetic with dynamic, organic movements, aptly reflecting the fluid and changing nature of menstrual pain; (2) etymologically speaking, the term manta means blanket in Spanish and Portuguese, aligning with the high frequency with which participants referenced blankets as symbols of self-care; (3) the overall shape of a manta ray resembles a uterus, closely connecting to the research topic.

– Appearance: Based on participants’ mixed feelings toward menstruation, this prototype uses a two-sided design to reflect the complexity of menstrual pain (Fig. 2). The outward-facing side features varying shades and thicknesses of red yarn to represent fluctuations in pain intensity, alongside rough metallic wire to convey bodily discomfort. Conversely, the inward-facing side (blue) symbolises a personal space for emotional recognition and self-care.

– Interaction: Drawing on participants’ descriptions of pain rhythms, it interacts dynamically with the menstruating body in three ways (Fig. 3): (1) the MenstaRay’s “fins” gradually intensifying from gentle waves to sudden peaks, followed by a slow easing; (2) lingering yet irregular sensations; and (3) a self-care mode, in which the “fins” slowly fold inward around the abdomen, providing a comforting, hug-like sensation.