This article explores how technological advancements enhance women’s health by providing innovative, less invasive treatments and improving access to healthcare through digital solutions.
How is technology impacting health?
The world is witnessing remarkable advancements in technology. From the advent of computers to AI taking over the landscape, the previous five decades have been one heck of a journey. Healthcare apps and wearable medical devices are helping people keep track of their well-being. In addition, telemedicine and mobile lab services are making medical consultations hassle-free and from the comfort of your home.
Advancements in women’s health
In the contemporary world, women’s health is an important aspect of society’s well-being. Like all fields of life, women’s health has also seen evolution in every discipline. Here we discuss some of the women’s health innovations that have empowered them to make modern choices for their well-being.
High-intensity focused ultrasound
This is an advanced technology using high-intensity ultrasound waves to treat a range of medical conditions. On the aesthetic side, women are enjoying its benefits in the forms of HIFU facials and HIFU facelifts. In addition, the thermal energy produced by focused ultrasound is also used to treat debilitating conditions like uterine fibroids in a minimally invasive procedure. This is done with the help of a magnetic resonance imaging machine to map the fibroids.
Role of lasers
From therapeutics to aesthetics, this technology has taken women’s health by storm and has shifted the management approaches from invasive to minimally invasive. Laser beams have been commonly used to treat vision problems like detached retinas and kidney stones for quite some time now.
Similarly, laser skin resurfacing and laser hair removal are key examples of their role in the aesthetics industry. In addition, high-precision laser knives are being used in surgical procedures like labiaplasty for better aesthetic results and lesser postoperative pain.
Radiofrequency in therapeutics
Radio frequency-based energy devices are used to address female genitourinary concerns. These devices generate heat and induce an inflammatory response which stimulates neovascularization and collagen production by fibroblasts. ThermiVa treatment using an RF vaginal device is one of the leading modern options for postpartum vaginal laxity.
The boosted collagen production effectively tightens the vagina and results in gratifying intimacy. In addition, the improved vaginal tone gives support to the bladder, thereby improving symptoms of urinary incontinence.
Transcutaneous electric nerve stimulation
This uses low-voltage electric current to treat chronic painful conditions. The electric impulses are transmitted through the skin by specially designed electrodes placed at trigger points.
They are successfully used to treat women suffering from debilitating periods of pain and chronic pelvic pain secondary to conditions like pelvic muscle spasms and endometriosis. Small and portable TENS units are widely available online for use at home. Caution must be exercised while operating the device at home.
What is the femtech industry?
Femtech is the use of technology for feminine health. The term originally coined almost a decade back, encompasses many startups using technology to create consumer-centric solutions for the health needs of women. The femtech industry is now a multibillion-dollar industry and is projected to continue its growth and expansion.
The industry includes digital apps, products, services, medical devices & women’s health wearables, therapeutic drugs and supplements among many other aspects of feminine well-being.
The future of women’s health
AI chatbots in women’s health
From banters like “Siri sing me a song” and “Siri tell me a joke,” conversations between humans and chatbots are evolving to maturity. With free availability and 24/7 accessibility of AI chatbots, people are now turning to AI chatbots to find solutions to their everyday life problems including their health concerns. They have shown a promising role in health education of women and in providing them with guidance about their well-being.
Research studies recommend AI use in mental health programs due to their proven effectiveness in alleviating anxiety. Specialized AI-powered chatbots are now being introduced to the digital market to help with specific areas of women’s health like some chatbot for pregnancy support and another for menopausal health. They are thought to be effective in identifying urgent health concerns and then ensuring speedy help for women.
Robotic surgeries
Just like health consultations are expected to become AI-driven, surgical interventions are also evolving. Robotic surgeries are being introduced into every field of health including women’s health. The extent to which humans are going to trust robotic intelligence operating on their bodies remain debatable. Nonetheless, ongoing researches are looking into the accuracy and precision of this revolutionary technology.
Final thoughts
Women’s health technology in today’s world is more empowered than ever to make informed decisions about their well-being. You now have modern technology-driven choices for all your genuine health concerns. The digital health platform is expanding globally to cater to different areas of women’s health. Digital health solutions are becoming accessible globally, bridging gaps in women’s health in underserved areas.
Article contribution
Dr. Jehan Ara is a highly qualified consultant obstetrician and gynaecologist with a passion for writing and health education. She has more than 10 years of practical patient care experience. She is currently working as an Assistant Professor of Obstetrics and Gynaecology in a medical school and a clinical supervisor for postgraduate residents of obstetrics and gynaecology in the affiliated teaching hospital. In addition to her clinical work, Dr. Jehan is also a passionate writer and educator. She regularly writes articles and blog posts on women’s health. She is committed to helping women understand their bodies and make informed decisions about their health.
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