Health neglect among French women

According to a 2021 Elabe survey conducted for Axa Prevention, four out of five women in France admit they neglect their health. This neglect is reflected in delayed medical diagnoses and postponed care, with many women only seeking medical attention when their symptoms become unmanageable.

Barriers to women's healthcare

Dr. Myriam Combes, director of strategy and medical relations at Elsan, highlights several factors contributing to this issue, including difficulty accessing care due to a shortage of healthcare professionals and long waiting times. Daily challenges such as lack of time, mental stress, prioritizing family health, and dismissing certain symptoms also play a role. Misinformation further complicates the situation, as women often receive unstructured or incorrect health advice.

Women's health beyond maternity

Women's health is not limited to pregnancy and childbirth but spans multiple life stages, including adolescence, fertility, perimenopause, and menopause. Despite this, care is often focused on specific periods, neglecting a more comprehensive approach. This can lead to serious consequences, as data from the National Cancer Institute (INCa) shows that 7.3% of breast cancers are diagnosed at a metastatic stage, indicating delayed detection.

New initiative to improve women's care

In response to these challenges, Elsan plans to improve women's health through better information and tailored care. The Polyclinic of Franche-Comté in Besançon is implementing the "Au féminin" program, launched on September 21, 2026. This initiative aims to provide personalized and coordinated care by bringing together various healthcare professionals and specialties under one roof.

Comprehensive care across life stages

The "Au féminin" program offers a range of services, including prevention, specialized consultations, maternity care, and day hospitalizations. It covers health needs from adolescence through menopause, with gynecological follow-ups and psychological support available. Treatments for conditions such as endometriosis, gynecological and breast cancers, and bariatric surgery are included, aiming to provide a more holistic approach to women's health throughout their lives.