Leiden Symposium Tackles Gender Inequality in Women’s Healthcare

Leiden, Netherlands – A crucial symposium addressing inequalities in women’s healthcare is set to take place on March 2nd at the Leiden City Hall. The Women’s Health & Care Symposium aims to spark conversation and action regarding often-overlooked conditions and systemic biases within the healthcare system, reflecting a growing national and international movement to prioritize the unique health needs of women.

Addressing Historical Disparities

The initiative stems from a growing recognition that historical medical research has largely centered on male physiology, leading to gaps in understanding and effective treatment for women. Els van Hees, a PhD candidate at the LUMC and candidate for Leiden’s municipal council, explains, “Old medical research was only done on men and you can’t undo that. But it has to be better.”

A Multi-Stakeholder Approach

Organized by D66 Leiden in collaboration with Top 50 Vrouwen Leiden and the municipality, the symposium will bring together healthcare professionals, policymakers, employers, and women themselves to discuss challenges and potential solutions. Organizers emphasize the need to move beyond a “one-size-fits-all” approach to healthcare, advocating for tailored strategies that address women’s specific health needs.

Key Focus Areas

A key focus of the symposium will be addressing the often-delayed diagnoses women face, particularly concerning conditions like menopause. The event aims to create a safe space where women feel comfortable voicing their concerns and seeking appropriate care without facing dismissal or disbelief. Speakers at the symposium will include:

• Prof. Dr. Gisela Terwindt (LUMC), specializing in migraines, which are more prevalent in women.
• Dieuwke Brookman & Debbie Melchers (De Leidse Huisdokters), discussing women in general practice.
• Petra Teeuwen (TNO), addressing women’s health in the workplace.

Translating Awareness into Action

The symposium aims to translate awareness into tangible improvements in healthcare access and quality for women locally. Van Hees highlights the importance of making a difference at a local level, stating the event pursues two goals: raising awareness of the issues and translating that awareness into everyday life.

Event Details

The Women’s Health & Care Symposium will be held on:

• Date: Monday, March 2, 2026
• Time: 7:00 PM – 9:30 PM (including a closing reception)
• Location: Stadsfoyer – Stadhuisplein 1, Leiden

Participation is free, and registration is available through the Top50 Vrouwen website.