How under-recognition, ‘femtech’ and social media are leading to inappropriate medicalisation of women’s health

Women’s health has been chronically under-funded and under-researched, meaning large knowledge gaps exist. In the absence of evidence, interpretations of what is ‘normal’ are often shaped by historical and cultural contexts, increasing the risk of medicalisation, overdiagnosis and overtreatment. Under-recognition of women’s health has led to vital advocacy efforts, but this movement frequently coincides with increasing commercial interests to market new technologies and treatments not backed by evidence. The rise of digital health, ‘Femtech’ and social media is expanding medicalisation on a massive scale. In the absence of evidence, social media influencers, alternative practitioners and companies are attempting to fill this gap, with social media providing the perfect environment for them to thrive.

This seminar will a) outline how evidence-gaps in women’s health, ‘Femtech’ and social media contribute to overdiagnosis and non-evidence-based care; b) use examples from our research, including period tracking apps, fertility testing and menopause treatments to showcase the growing abundance of false and misleading marketing preying on women’s concerns and exploiting women’s dissatisfaction with the current healthcare system; and c) discuss with the audience potential solutions, including the role of the media, better regulation and advocacy for evidence-based care.