The Top 10 Most Incredible Inventions of 2016 That Improved Women's Lives

Beautycounter is a company focused on providing beauty products for women. On its website, Beautycounter has compiled a list of chemicals that you will never find in its products. At the top of this list are animal fats, oils, and musk. This summer, Beautycounter brought 100 of its most innovative products for women to Capitol Hill to advocate for better government regulation of beauty products. The company also acquired Nude, a fully natural beauty brand founded in the UK by Bono and his wife, Ali Hewson.

Pantsuit Nation is an online community founded by 33-year-old Libby Chamberlain about three weeks before the U.S. presidential election to show support for Hillary Clinton. Within just 17 days of its existence, this ‘secret’ Facebook group rapidly became a digital home for enthusiastic supporters of Democratic candidate Hillary Clinton. The original idea was simply to encourage Clinton supporters to wear pantsuits and slacks when voting on November 8, but Pantsuit Nation (loosely translated: The Land of Pantsuits) grew into something far bigger. Clinton herself became aware of the group, and a day before the election, she wrote a message to the 2.5 million members saying, “I want everyone to come and have your voices heard.” Pantsuit Nation evolved into a major Facebook movement, with its own rules and an increasing number of moderators enforcing them. Within the group, no negative posts about Clinton or her opponents are allowed, though voting for her is not mandatory. Chamberlain clarified that the group is not a platform to defend Clinton from criticism or engage in political debates. Instead, Pantsuit Nation's core purpose is to passionately share support and positive energy.

Menstrual cycles can be a huge inconvenience for women, often leading to embarrassment when stains appear on clothing. To address this issue, Agrawal, co-founder of Thinx, created a product to help women during their periods. She developed high-tech underwear made with antibacterial fabric to minimize the hassle during ‘that time of the month’. In 2017, Thinx plans to expand its range with additional clothing items featuring exclusive fabric technology and reusable silicone sanitary products made from organic cotton to further support women worldwide, ensuring they can feel secure and maintain reproductive health during their menstrual cycle.

Breastfeeding is one of the most intimate ways for a mother to bond with her newborn. However, for new mothers who cannot always be with their babies, using a breast pump is an effective solution. Traditional pumps, though, are often cumbersome, noisy, and require cleaning after each use. Over the past two years, Naya has revolutionized breast pump technology. Naya has developed a compact, portable pump that can be taken anywhere. The creators employed a water-based technology for milk extraction, rather than the traditional vacuum suction method. This invention also helps stimulate milk production by massaging the breasts, offering a more efficient option compared to other pumps available on the market.

Bellabeat is a biometric tracking device designed in the shape of a leaf pendant, allowing you to wear it at all times. Made from lightweight material in gray tones with a metallic finish, this device can be worn as a bracelet, necklace, or clip. Bellabeat is durable and water-resistant, ensuring long-lasting performance. Its small size makes it easy for women to attach to their sleepwear or lingerie to track their sleep patterns. This impressive device aggregates data and can predict stress levels at any given moment. If you're unable to step outside for fresh air, the accompanying app offers breathing exercises and meditation sessions to help you regain calm.

MM.Lafleur is a startup specifically designed for women who dislike shopping. Sarah Lafleur, along with co-founders Miyako Nakamura and Narie Foster, conceived the idea for MM.Lafleur when Sarah was just 20 years old. Now, as the CEO of the company, she reflects on how tedious shopping can be, often consuming nearly all of her limited free time. In 2013, MM.Lafleur launched its innovative 'Bento Box' system. With this system, women simply fill out their preferences, size, and body type, and in return, they receive a curated box of clothing selected by a stylist. They can then pay for what they wish to keep and return the rest via the online shopping platform or request a new box of clothes altogether.

In 2014, Foria, a California-based pharmaceutical company known for its cannabis-infused products, made waves with its 'weed lube'. Now, the company has introduced a groundbreaking product aimed at easing the pain and discomfort many women experience during their menstrual cycle—Foria Relief. This product comes in the form of a vaginal suppository designed to soothe pain and muscle cramps, common symptoms during menstruation. It is small, white, and bullet-shaped. To use, place the suppository in the freezer for about 20 minutes to prevent it from dissolving too quickly. Afterward, insert it as deeply as possible, prop up your hips with a pillow, and rest. The effects begin within 20 minutes and can last anywhere from 1 to 24 hours. A box of 4 Foria Relief suppositories is priced at $44. While it is still relatively new and costly, the product holds significant promise for women seeking relief during their menstrual period.

Landit is a startup designed to help women make groundbreaking changes in their careers. With Landit, women can freely share their career experiences and conflict-resolution skills. When facing work-related challenges, stress with colleagues, or the pressures of balancing family life, Landit provides a space for women to express themselves and seek support.

Recognizing that women enjoy sharing their lifestyles and habits with those who share similar interests, Olivia June Poole created Vina, an app designed to connect women and build friendships. With Vina, women can sign up, answer questions about their lifestyle and preferences, and the app will match them with like-minded individuals. In 2016, the Bumble app also introduced the 'BFF' feature for those looking for platonic friends, romantic connections, or same-sex relationships.

Maven Clinic is a telehealth company tailored for women, founded by former journalist Katherine Ryder. The company was established with the understanding that not every woman is comfortable visiting a gynecologist, especially for issues related to hormones and nutrition. Maven Clinic connects patients to hundreds of providers both inside and outside the traditional healthcare system, including lactation consultants, midwives, family doctors, obstetricians, physical therapists, and more, all committed to offering care for women's health needs.