Gynecology World Conference 2026

Abstract

Introduction: Despite growing recognition of disparities in women’s health, gaps persist in medical education regarding underrepresentation in research and sex-specific differences in disease presentation. Conditions such as myocardial infarction, autoimmune diseases, ADHD, and autism may present differently in women, yet these differences are often underemphasised in undergraduate curricula. This study aimed to evaluate the extent of teaching on sex-specific presentations across UK medical schools, as well as confidence in recognising these differences in clinical practice.

Methods: A cross-sectional survey was distributed to medical students and doctors from UK medical schools. The survey assessed exposure to teaching on women’s health research gaps and education on sex-specific differences in disease presentation. Participants were also asked to report their confidence in recognising these differences in clinical settings. Responses were analysed using descriptive statistics.

Results: 150 responses were collected. The majority (71.8%) reported not receiving teaching on gaps in women’s health research, with only 14.5% confirming such teaching. Similarly, 44.4% reported no teaching on how medical conditions can present differently in women compared to men. Confidence in recognising these differences was limited: 40.3% did not feel confident in identifying myocardial infarction symptoms in women, and 33.9% felt only somewhat confident.

Conclusion: This study highlights significant gaps in education surrounding women’s health clinical presentations disparities within UK medical curricula. A substantial proportion of students and doctors report limited teaching and low confidence in applying this knowledge in practice. These findings support the need for more comprehensive and standardised integration of women’s health topics into medical education to improve patient care outcomes.