From an inquiry into endometriosis care to a survey on the gender health gap, the world of women’s health has received plenty of government attention over the last couple of years. 

And now, one year on from the publication of the long-awaited women’s health strategy, the government is once again appealing to women to share their experiences – this time, when it comes to reproductive health.

The new survey, which was one of the key commitments outlined in the women’s health strategy, provides women across England with the opportunity to share our experiences of a range of issues, ranging from menstrual health and contraception to fertility, pregnancy and the menopause.  

Findings from the survey – which opens today and will run for six weeks – will then be used to better understand women’s experiences of reproductive health and the care options available, as well as inform current and future decision-making and health policy.

It is hoped that the survey, which is being handled by the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine with funding from the Department of Health and Social Care, will help the government to address current disparities and ensure women feel their voices are being heard.

“Women and girls deserve the best healthcare at every stage of their lives, but we simply can’t deliver that without listening to their lived experiences and concerns,” said Maria Caulfield, minister for the women’s health strategy. “Women should always have a say in their own healthcare, whether that’s in managing pregnancy and fertility or dealing with the challenges of the menopause in the workplace.” 

She continued: “I would encourage every woman to complete the survey on reproductive health as soon as they’re able and ensure their voice is heard.”

Available online now, the survey is open to women aged between 16–55. The time it will take you to complete depends on your experiences and what questions apply – there are sections on menstruation, contraception (including how you access it) and pregnancy, for example. There is also space to share your thoughts and any suggestions for how services might be improved.

To take part in the reproductive health survey you can search ‘government reproductive health survey’ or click here to go straight to the page itself. 

Images: Getty