Barriers to Implementing and Scaling Wearable Technologies in Women’s Health: Perspectives from a Gynaecologist in Switzerland
Journal
Proceedings of the 19th International Joint Conference on Biomedical Engineering Systems and Technologies
Type
conference contribution
Date Issued
2026-03
Author(s)
Abstract
Women in the EU tend to live longer than men but often spend more years in poor health, mainly due to diagnostic delays and barriers to care, especially in sexual and reproductive health. These gaps are intensified by women’s underrepresentation in clinical research, which results in less accurate diagnostics and treatments. To achieve gender equality in health, in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, there is a need for innovation in medical technology and research. Wearable-based digital health applications can enhance access, enable monitoring, and support personalized treatment for conditions like endometriosis, polycystic ovary syndrome, menopause, and maternal health. However, challenges like limited healthcare professional engagement impede their widespread adoption. This paper explores the main barriers to integrating wearables into gynaecological practice, using data obtained from an in-depth, semi-structured interview with a gynaecologist. Results ind icate that several barriers currently prevent scaling digital women’s health, including a lack of scientific evidence for the technology, concerns about device reliability and data security, limited reimbursement, and inadequate IT infrastructure.
HSG Classification
contribution to practical use / society
Refereed
Yes
Publisher
SCITEPRESS - Science and Technology Publications
Volume
1
Start page
691
End page
697
Event Title
Workshop on Advancing Digital Women’s Health – Scale-IT-up 2026
Event Location
Marbella, Spain
Event Date
2-4 March 2026
Subject(s)
Division(s)