A comprehensive survey conducted in 2023 has unveiled that over a quarter of women in England are grappling with serious reproductive health conditions, highlighting significant disparities in healthcare access and outcomes. The study, encompassing responses from 60,000 women, stands as the most extensive of its kind in the country.
The findings indicate that 28% of participants reported living with reproductive morbidities such as pelvic organ prolapse, uterine fibroids, endometriosis, polycystic ovary syndrome, and various reproductive cancers. Notably, nearly 19% experienced severe menstrual pain in the past year, while 40% reported heavy menstrual bleeding. Young women aged 16 to 24 were particularly affected, with over 30% reporting severe period pain.
The survey also shed light on pronounced ethnic disparities. Black women were found to be 69% more likely to suffer from reproductive health issues compared to their white counterparts, primarily due to a higher prevalence of uterine fibroids—reported by 19.8% of Black women versus 5% of white women.
Personal accounts underscore the challenges faced by women. Rebecca Brown, a 46-year-old graphic designer from South London, recounted enduring debilitating pain from uterine fibroids, which were initially dismissed by healthcare professionals. Her condition was only diagnosed after persistent advocacy, revealing 25 fibroids.
Experts attribute these issues to systemic, structural, and cultural barriers within the healthcare system. Dr. Rebecca French from the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine emphasized the need for culturally competent healthcare reforms to address these disparities. Organizations like the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists and the Caribbean and African Health Network are advocating for equitable access and increased awareness.
In response, the Department of Health and Social Care has pledged to tackle these inequalities through its forthcoming women’s health strategy, aiming to ensure that services are responsive to the diverse needs of women across England.
