Committees

Is progress being made on women’s reproductive health conditions?

8 November 2024

The Women and Equalities Committee (WEC) will hear from Dame Lesley Regan, Women's Health Ambassador and Dr Sue Mann, National Clinical Director for Women’s Health, NHS England during a new evidence session on women’s reproductive health conditions in Parliament on Wednesday, 13 November.

In 2023, the previous committee held an inquiry into women’s reproductive health focusing on gynaecological and urogynaecological conditions, including, but not limited, to adenomyosis, endometriosis and premenstrual dysphoric disorder. The inquiry aimed to understand the challenges women face during diagnosis and treatment of reproductive health issues and highlight health disparities.

The new evidence session will give WEC, chaired by Labour MP Sarah Owen, the opportunity to be updated on developments in the treatment and diagnosis of women’s reproductive health conditions, as well as assess the progress of the Women’s Health Strategy for England and expansion of women's health hubs.

It is also expected to touch upon the issues of education and awareness, listening to women, medical training, waiting times, medical guidelines and painful procedures, research and workplace support.

Witnesses

Wednesday, 13 November at 2.20pm

  • Dame Lesley Regan, Women's Health Ambassador
  • Dr Sue Mann, National Clinical Director for Women’s Health, NHS England

WEC held three evidence sessions during its inquiry in the last Parliament on women’s reproductive health. It heard compelling testimonies from broadcaster and journalist Naga Munchetty, plus broadcaster and TV personality Vicky Pattison about their experiences of living with menstrual and gynaecological health conditions and the issues they faced in securing effective diagnosis and treatment.

Subsequent sessions focused on treatment options, the adequacy of medical professionals’ training and whether there is sufficient research being carried out into women’s reproductive healthcare. The committee also took evidence from medical bodies in relation to the accuracy and timeliness of diagnosis, the barriers to treating such conditions and policies around pain experienced by women seeking help. In a third session it heard from the Health Minister alongside the Women’s Health Ambassador and senior representatives from research bodies.

Further information

Image: House of Commons