Across South Asia, we know too little about women’s health issues beyond reproductive and maternal health. Other gynaecological needs across the life course remain overlooked in policy, research and advocacy.

For instance, what services are available for women who experience excessive bleeding or uterine fibroids, or for women who are entering menopause? Data on gynaecological conditions, and services to address them, are sparse in many parts of South Asia.

In India, national surveys indicate that early hysterectomy (surgical removal of the uterus before 45 years) is a common treatment in several parts of the country—a reflection of the absence of quality care for women’s health.

Globally, emerging evidence indicates that reproductive life events, such as age at childbirth, gynaecological conditions and early hysterectomy, are linked to later risk of non-communicable diseases including diabetes, hypertension, osteoporosis and mental health. These linkages underscore the importance of addressing women’s gynaecological health not only as a matter of reproductive health – but as a critical component of their overall well-being.

In collaboration with Study and Action on Hysterectomy: Evidence on women’s health through the life course in India (SAHELI) consortium and Sexual and Reproductive Health Matters, HENI organized a webinar on 9 December 2024 to initiate a discussion on the multifaceted issues that influence women’s gynaecological health in South Asian contexts.

The webinar aimed to explore common challenges and complexities related to women’s gynaecological health through a conversation with practitioners and researchers in India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Pakistan. By exploring the sociocultural, economic, and health system patterns that impact women’s health, we aim to foster shared learning and contribute to a comprehensive action agenda for the region.

Watch the recording here: