# Exploring Femtech: A Trillion-Dollar Opportunity for Women’s Health
Written on
Chapter 1: Understanding Femtech
Femtech is a burgeoning sector that captivates my attention as a woman invested in health solutions. Coined in 2016 by Ida Tin, the founder of the period-tracking app Clue, the term 'Femtech' serves to bring together innovators, investors, and advocates dedicated to advancing women's health.
Femtech encompasses a range of health software, technological solutions, and products designed specifically for women's biological needs. While period tracking apps are a prominent aspect, the field has expanded to include numerous innovative technologies aimed at addressing various aspects of women's health.
Historically, women were excluded from medical research until as recently as 1993, leading to a significant gap in understanding female physiology. This oversight has resulted in a lack of tailored solutions for women's unique health issues, contributing to a persistent gender health gap.
The gender health gap was a focal topic at the House of Lords, the UK Parliament's second chamber, which investigates public policy and government actions. Alarmingly, the UK has the largest female health gap among G20 nations and ranks 12th globally. As a London-born woman, this statistic is particularly alarming, especially when considering the compounded challenges faced by women of color. For instance, black women in the UK are four times more likely to face mortality during pregnancy or childbirth, highlighting the urgent need for focused solutions.
The impact of inequality, discrimination, and racism pervades medicine, biology, and technology. This underscores the necessity for solutions that prioritize women's health.
By Women, For Women: Femtech Entrepreneurs are Transforming Women's Healthcare explores how female entrepreneurs are reshaping the landscape of women’s health. This video provides insight into the innovative solutions being developed to address the unique health needs of women.
Section 1.1: Why Invest in Femtech?
Despite the historical underfunding of startups focused on women's health, there is a noticeable shift as venture capital increasingly recognizes the potential of Femtech. In 2021 alone, investments in this sector reached $2 billion, accounting for only 4% of total funding.
There is a clear opportunity here; women make up half the global population and are known to invest significantly in their health. The potential market for Femtech solutions is vast, particularly as awareness grows around issues that have long been overlooked.
Crunchbase has recently begun tracking Femtech investments, forecasting that the market will reach $1.103 trillion by 2027. This is a promising indicator of the sector's growth, as evidenced by successful startups like Maven Clinic, which achieved unicorn status with a $110 million funding round, alongside Elvie and Flo Health, which raised $87 million and $50 million respectively.
Subsection 1.1.1: Engaging with Femtech Founders
To further my involvement in this space, I have recently joined Femtech Lab as a mentor. This platform is dedicated to impacting the lives of one billion women globally by advocating for equitable healthcare and enhancing women's understanding of their bodies and health cycles.
To stay updated on the latest developments in Femtech, I recommend leveraging platforms like LinkedIn, media outlets, and attending networking events to connect with fellow investors, advisors, and founders.
Chapter 2: The Future of Femtech
What is FemTech Lab? introduces the mission and initiatives of Femtech Lab, an innovation platform committed to advancing women's health and wellness through impactful solutions.
In my upcoming article, I'll be highlighting some of the most innovative Femtech startups making waves in the industry. If you're intrigued by this sector, feel free to reach out; I’d love to connect and discuss further!
Kathryn x