The Women and Equalities Committee today launches a new inquiry on women’s
menstrual and gynaecological health, to understand the challenges
women face during diagnosis and treatment of reproductive health
issues.
In a UK Government public survey, access to
information was found to be a key issue. Only 8% of respondents
felt they had access to enough information on gynaecological
conditions. Women also said that they often had to speak to
multiple doctors over several months to receive a diagnosis. When
it comes to endometriosis diagnosis, 58% of women visit their GP
more than 10 times with symptoms before they’re diagnosed.
As an underfunded area of research, MPs will consider how women’s
experiences of reproductive healthcare vary and how these
disparities can impact health outcomes. Endometriosis, polycystic
ovary syndrome (PCOS), and premenstrual dysphoric disorder are
examples of the types of conditions the inquiry will cover.
Committee Chair, , said:
“Navigating reproductive health care is not always easy. From the
side-effect lottery of the contraceptive pill to the amount of
time and appointments it can take for women with painful
conditions to receive a diagnosis.
“Taboos and misinformation still stifle the conversation, making
it difficult for women to get to the facts. In this inquiry, we
want to get to the bottom of what constitutes ‘healthy’ periods,
the barriers to good reproductive health, and whether women are
getting the care they need.”
Terms of reference
The inquiry invites written
evidence on the following questions by 5pm
on 1 September 2023.
- What constitutes healthy periods and reproductive
health?
- What are women’s experiences of being diagnosed with,
undergoing procedures and being treated for gynaecological or
urogynaecological conditions?
- What disparities exist in the treatment and diagnosis of
gynaecological or urogynaecological conditions?
- What barriers exist in the treatment and diagnosis of
gynaecological or urogynaecological conditions?
