Today I’m joined by the Founder and inventor of the world’s first flushable pregnancy test, Bethany Edwards.
Lia is an earth-friendly healthcare company on a mission to revolutionize reproductive health through the development of innovative products. The company's first product, which came to market just a couple of months ago, is the FDA cleared Lia pregnancy test – which is changing the historically wasteful product into a plastic-free, flushable, biodegradable form.
We’re covering some key insights into the timeline it takes to develop an idea like this that doesn’t exist in the world, spoiler alert: it’s a 6-9 year journey and the kind of money you actually need to fund the research and development piece.
Breaking New Ground in Women’s Health
Bethany is shaking things up in the reproductive health space with Lia, an earth-friendly healthcare company dedicated to making a positive impact. Her groundbreaking product, the FDA-cleared Lia pregnancy test, hit the market just a few months ago and is already making waves. This isn’t just any pregnancy test; it’s 100% biodegradable, plastic-free, and can be flushed—talk about a game changer!
Bethany recognized a significant tension point in the product lifecycle and the materials typically used. She was on a mission to design something innovative that would not only meet an unmet need for privacy but also be more environmentally friendly. The traditional pregnancy test has been around for over 30 years without much change, but Lia is here to change that narrative.
The Road to Development
Creating a product like this isn’t a walk in the park; it’s a long journey that can take anywhere from six to nine years! Bethany shared that this timeline is typical for medical devices, involving everything from concept development to regulatory approval and manufacturing. It’s a significant investment of time, energy, and funds.
When Bethany and her team were in the early stages, they relied heavily on fundraising efforts, including pitch competitions. Over the course of a couple of years, they raised between $200,000 and $300,000, all of which went into product development. Bethany emphasizes the importance of planning and funding for initial proof of concept, especially before attracting angel investors for the next phase.
Tips for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
Bethany’s journey isn’t just about the end product; it’s a wealth of lessons for anyone looking to make their mark. Here are a few golden nuggets she shared:
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Just Start: Don’t wait for the perfect moment. The most crucial step is to take action and begin sharing your ideas with others. You’ll be surprised at how quickly momentum builds!
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Network Like a Pro: Show up at events and connect with others in your industry. You never know who might introduce you to your next big opportunity.
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Be Strategic: Timing matters! Align your product launches and marketing efforts for maximum impact. Consider the virality of your packaging design to get people talking.
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Understand the Market: Research is key. Use resources like Google Patents and Free Patents Online to gain insights into existing products and potential innovations.
The Power of Marketing and Launching
One of the most critical components of Lia’s success has been finding the right manufacturing partner. This partnership ensures that they can scale their production while maintaining quality. Launching quietly allowed them to manage demand effectively, and their strategic marketing efforts resulted in a staggering 100 million press impressions within the first 48 hours of launch!
Social media also played a significant role, with a TikTok video garnering 4 million views. Bethany’s goal is clear: she wants Lia’s flushable pregnancy test in the hands of as many women as possible, empowering them to take control of their reproductive health without the guilt of added waste.
Looking Ahead
As Lia continues to grow, Bethany is focused on expanding distribution, particularly internationally, where the demand has been surprisingly strong. She’s passionate about providing sustainable solutions for women everywhere and is determined to revolutionize the way we think about reproductive health products.
Bethany Edwards’ story is a testament to what can be achieved when you combine innovation, sustainability, and a fierce determination to make a difference. If you’re looking to start your own journey, let Bethany’s experience inspire you to take that first step. After all, the world is waiting for your idea!
