Women's Health Network

For too long, women's health has been underrepresented in research, leaving crucial gaps in knowledge and disparities in healthcare. Our Women's Health Research Network is our response to this far-ranging inequality, amplifying women's voices in research that leads to impactful change in policy and everyday lives.

Bringing together cross-disciplinary researchers to address gaps in evidence and improve health outcomes for women and girls.

One researcher helping to lead this work is Dr Laura Forrest, focusing on how menstrual cycle-related symptoms impact school life, social interactions, and participation in sport. Through conversations with pupils, teachers and health professionals, the project identified key barriers to delivering effective menstrual health education, leading to the co-design of a new educational resource to combat stigma, address knowledge gaps, and empower young people to better understand and manage their menstrual health.

Another key area of focus is Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) - a debilitating hormone-based condition that significantly affects daily life. UWS researchers Dr Lynsay Matthews and Mhairi Campbell have brought the lived experience of PMDD into the spotlight, particularly the challenges faced by those navigating the social security system. Their findings, which highlighted the lack of trauma-informed support for applicants, has been shared with policymakers including contributing to the Scottish Government's review of Adult Disability Payment, helping to shape more targeted, compassionate care and support.