NPA says community pharmacies have played a vital role in providing easy, affordable care for women and girls, providing advice and access to emergency contraception in a safe and non judgemental environment
In an open letter published by the Faculty of Sexual and Reproductive Healthcare (FSRH), President, Dr. Janet Barter, has appealed to the newly appointed Health Secretary of the State, Wes Streeting for urgent prioritisation of women’s reproductive health.
Signed by 800 clinicians and supported by 65 endorsing organisations, the letter underscores the rising issues around women’s reproductive health.
Dr. Barter’s letter highlights significant health inequalities affecting women across the UK, including rising rates of teenage pregnancy and a stark disparity in maternal mortality among Black and ethnic minority women.
“There are increasing rates of teenage pregnancy across England and Wales,1 and women from the most deprived backgrounds are almost three times more likely to need abortions than women from the wealthiest backgrounds,” Dr. Barter said.
“Shamefully, maternal mortality for Black women is also currently almost four times higher than for White women and significant disparities also exist for women of Asian and mixed ethnicity.
“These inequalities are unacceptable but importantly preventable with the right policies in place,” she continued.
Alluding to the Labour Party’s election manifesto pledge to ensure women’s health, the letter outlines the FSRH Hatfield Vision—a comprehensive framework for improving sexual and reproductive health services.
The Vision includes goals such as better access to contraception, enhanced education, and a dedicated sexual and reproductive health strategy.
Gary Waltham, CEO at FSRH, echoed the call to action, stressing the importance of accessible sexual and reproductive healthcare.
Dr. Aziza Sesay, the FSRH Hatfield Vision Ambassador, highlighted the daily impact of health inequities on women and girls, particularly in deprived communities. “Action to tackle these health inequities is crucial and must be a priority for this government.”
In a notable endorsement, the National Pharmacy Association (NPA) also joined the appeal.
Gareth Jones, NPA’s Director of External Affairs, emphasised the vital role of community pharmacies in providing reproductive health services.
“We’re pleased to join a wide range of organisations in calling on the new government to improve access to sexual and reproductive health services for women and girls.
