The Women’s Health Strategy promises to address the poor experiences and suboptimal health outcomes women have historically endured within the health and care system. These disparities stem from an enduring reality: the healthcare system was largely designed by men, for men. This has often left women feeling unheard or disbelieved when seeking care.
The Government’s 10-year strategy calls for a fundamental reset in how the healthcare system listens to women and strives to improve their health outcomes. It outlines a range of commitments, including transforming women’s health content on the NHS website, defining trauma-informed practice for the health sector, and increasing female participation in medical research.
Crucially, it also acknowledges the historical underrepresentation of women in clinical trials, leading to a gender data gap that assumes male bodies as the default, often overlooking sex- or gender-based differences.
Menopause: An Overlooked Transition
Each woman’s experience with menopause is unique, presenting a spectrum of symptoms and challenges. While some navigate this phase with minimal disruption, others face severe symptoms that affect every aspect of their lives. Over two years ago, the “Women’s Health – Let’s Talk About It” survey revealed that 84% of respondents in England felt dismissed by medical professionals. This alarming statistic underscored the urgency for the Women’s Health Strategy.
The same survey highlighted another stark reality: fewer than one in 10 women felt adequately informed about menopause. Raising awareness about menopause has since become a priority area for the strategy. However, despite increased recognition, women still face barriers in accessing care. A survey by the British Menopause Society (BMS) found that 72% of respondents believe newly qualified healthcare professionals lack sufficient education about menopause. Simultaneously, 98% of BMS members reported a rise in women seeking treatment for menopause symptoms, further straining overstretched GPs.
To address these challenges, alternative care pathways must be explored. A pharmacy-first approach, for instance, could alleviate pressure on GPs while providing women with more accessible care. Additionally, workplace policies need to recognise and support the impact menopause has on women’s professional lives.
Listening to Marginalised Voices
The strategy acknowledges the importance of addressing health disparities among women from marginalised groups. While there are plans to address inequalities affecting certain groups, such as women of specific ethnic backgrounds, broader action is needed to tackle the intersectional challenges faced by women who also experience barriers related to socio-economic status, disability, or other factors. A comprehensive approach is essential to ensure equity in health outcomes for all women.
Achievements and Progress So Far
Progress in the strategy’s first year has been significant. The establishment of Women’s Health Hubs expanded access to contraception, and the introduction of the Hormone Replacement Therapy Prepayment Certificate (HRT PPC) mark important steps forward. These initiatives have reduced barriers to care for many women.
- England:
- The Women’s Health Strategy launched in July 2022 includes Women’s Health Hubs, mental health support for women, and improved sexual and reproductive health education in schools.
- Introduction of the HRT PPC in 2023, benefiting over 37,000 women and saving more than £1 million by April 2024.
- The NHS Pharmacy Contraception Service and an additional £25 million in funding for Women’s Health Hubs.
- Wales:
- The first Women’s Health Plan was launched in December 2024, embracing a 10-year vision to improve health services for women.
- Priority areas include menstrual health, menopause, pelvic health, and combating violence against women and girls.
- Initiatives such as Endometriosis Cymru aim to support patients and healthcare professionals alike.
- Scotland:
- The Women’s Health Plan, launched in 2021, introduced a Women’s Health Group and several subgroups focusing on issues like sexual health, menopause, and heart health.
- Progress includes the appointment of a national Women’s Health Champion and Women’s Health Leads for NHS boards.
- Challenges persist, particularly around equitable access to information and care for women without internet access or those in deprived areas.
- Northern Ireland:
- A Women’s Health Action Plan is under development, with a focus on public awareness and listening exercises to gather women’s perspectives.
- Training for GPs in gynaecology to reduce secondary care referrals and improve local access to treatment.
However, the work is far from over. Gynaecology waiting lists remain the longest of any specialty, and disparities persist across racial and socio-economic lines. As Women’s Health Ambassador Professor Dame Lesley Regan noted: “A huge amount has been achieved in the strategy’s first year… together we are making a real difference to the lives of so many women.”
Final Thought: Key Priorities Moving Forward
- Closing the gender data gap by prioritising female participation in clinical research.
- Expanding awareness and education about menopause among healthcare professionals and workplaces.
- Ensuring healthcare systems adopt a trauma-informed approach.
- Addressing intersectional inequalities to improve outcomes for all women, particularly those from marginalised groups.
- Tackling long gynaecology waiting lists and ensuring equitable access to services across all regions.
By resetting how the healthcare system listens to and values women’s experiences, the strategy aims to deliver transformative change for generations to come.
To gain insight from ministers and women’s health ambassadors at Chamber UK’s Welcome to Parliament – Spotlighting Women’s Health event, please click here.