Over recent years, advancements in medical technology have had a profound impact on healthcare, from improving diagnostics, to enhancing treatment options. The following examples are five game-changing women’s health medical devices that have empowered women to lead healthier, more fulfilling lives.
1. Robotic-assisted surgical systems
Robotic-assisted surgical systems have completely transformed gynaecological surgeries, allowing for more precise, minimally invasive procedures, making them one of the most exciting innovations in women’s health of recent years. These advanced devices offer surgeons enhanced dexterity, visualisation and control during surgeries such as hysterectomies, myomectomies and endometriosis treatments.
Robotic-assisted surgery allows for smaller incisions, reduced scarring and shorter recovery times for patients, ultimately improving postoperative experiences. This technology has significantly contributed to advancing gynaecological surgery and has provided gynaecologists with enhanced capabilities, improved precision and better patient outcomes. Robotic-assisted surgery continues to evolve and shape the field, offering potential benefits for a wide range of gynaecological procedures.
2. Intrauterine devices (IUDs)
IUDs have long been a popular contraceptive choice. These small, T-shaped devices are inserted into the uterus and provide long-term birth control with high efficacy rates. In recent years, the introduction of hormonal IUDs has offered additional benefits beyond contraception. Hormonal IUDs, such as Mirena and Kyleena, release progestin, which can help manage heavy menstrual bleeding and reduce symptoms of conditions like endometriosis and adenomyosis. These women’s health medical devices provide a convenient and effective means of birth control and address reproductive health concerns.
More recently, OCON Therapeutics has been working on several uterus conforming IUDs which are a more natural, spherical shape, rather than T-shaped. The company places a strong emphasis on a patient-centred approach to women’s health, designing their IUDs to provide improved comfort, reduced side effects and increased user satisfaction. By focusing on the unique needs and experiences of women, OCON Therapeutics is a great example of a company aiming to enhance the overall IUD experience and improve access to reliable and effective contraception.
3. Smart pelvic floor trainers
Pelvic floor disorders, such as urinary incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse, affect millions of people. Smart pelvic floor trainers have been developed in recent years to help combat these uncomfortable and often distressing issues. These discreet and connected innovative devices provide personalised pelvic floor exercises, tracking progress to provide real-time feedback.
By incorporating gamification and interactive features, these trainers make pelvic floor exercises engaging and encourage women to maintain a consistent routine. For example, the Elvie Trainer utilises advanced sensor technology to provide real-time biofeedback. This feedback helps women better understand and connect with their pelvic floor muscles, ensuring that they are performing the exercises correctly. The impact of Elvie’s contributions extends beyond the device itself. They have played a crucial role in encouraging open conversations both in person and online about previously stigmatised topics in women’s health, such as breast feeding and incontinence, fostering a sense of empowerment among women worldwide.
4. Smart wearable fertility trackers
Advancements in wearable technologies have given rise to smart FemTech devices that track fertility with precision and convenience. Wearable fertility trackers such as Ava Bracelet and Tempdrop are able to continuously monitor various physiological parameters, including basal body temperature, heart rate and movement. By analysing these data points, the innovative devices are able to provide accurate insights into the fertility window, enabling users to optimise their chances of conception.
Smart wearable fertility trackers such as these offer a non-invasive, user-friendly approach to fertility tracking, empowering women with knowledge and control over their reproductive health.
5. 3D mammography
Traditional 2D mammography has long been the standard screening method, but 3D mammography, also known as digital breast tomosynthesis, has emerged as a revolutionary technology. By capturing multiple images of the breast from different angles, 3D mammography provides a more detailed and comprehensive view. This breakthrough technology has been shown to improve breast cancer detection by 27 – 50%, reducing false-positive results and offering women more accurate diagnosis and potentially saving lives.
What’s next for women’s health innovations?
The realm of medical devices has opened exciting possibilities for women’s health, enabling improved diagnostics, less invasive procedures and enhanced control over reproductive choices. The five medical devices discussed in this blog represent just a fraction of the transformative women’s health innovations that are revolutionising healthcare. As innovation continues to flourish, we can anticipate further breakthroughs that empower women, promote early detection and pave the way for better well-being.
