This short inquiry will look at women’s reproductive health and the challenges that women face when they are being diagnosed and treated for these conditions. The inquiry will consider any disparities that exist in the diagnosis and treatment, and the impact of women’s experiences on their health and lives.

Women’s reproductive health

The Committee invites written evidence on the following questions:

• 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.

The Committee is interested in reproductive health, gynecological and urogynaecological conditions which include, but are not limited to: heavy menstrual bleeding, premenstrual syndrome (PMS), premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), endometriosis, adenomyosis, fibroids, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), urinary incontinence and vaginal prolapse.

The Committee welcomes submissions by 5.00pm on 1 September 2023.

Important information about making a submission 

Please read this section before making a submission. This information is particularly important for people making written submissions in an individual capacity, and about their own lived experience.

Written evidence must address the terms of reference as set out above, but please note that submissions do not have to address every point. Guidance on giving evidence to a select committee of the House of Commons is available here.

Individual cases 

In line with the general practice of select committees the Women and Equalities Committee is not able to take up individual cases. If you would like political support or advice you may wish to contact your local Member of Parliament.

For full details and online form go to https://committees.parliament.uk/call-for-evidence/3203/

July 25, 2023