Introduction

A series of free online health education sessions is currently underway in Surrey, aimed at improving public awareness and understanding of common but often overlooked women’s health issues. The initiative, as per reported, is being run by Surrey Heartlands Integrated Care System and features live webinars led by experienced general practitioners.

The sessions are open to all and provide reliable, easy-to-understand medical information through a convenient virtual format. Each webinar includes a Q&A segment, giving attendees the opportunity to interact directly with GPs and receive answers to their personal health questions.

The upcoming session, scheduled for Tuesday evening, will focus on three key conditions that significantly affect women’s physical and emotional wellbeing: polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), premenstrual syndrome (PMS), and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). These topics were chosen due to their prevalence and the frequent lack of public understanding surrounding their symptoms and treatments.

This community-focused initiative has already seen promising engagement. A previous webinar on menopause, held in April, attracted nearly 100 participants. Organisers say this level of interest highlights a growing public appetite for trustworthy, accessible information about women’s health.

Vicky Williams, Associate Director for Women and Children at Surrey Heartlands, stressed the importance of these sessions. “Many of the conditions we’re discussing are experienced by women every day, yet they are often misdiagnosed or misunderstood. These webinars offer a chance to get clear, professional information and begin open conversations around women’s health,” she said.

Three additional webinars are scheduled for the rest of the year, each focusing on a different aspect of women’s health:

• September: Endometriosis and heavy menstrual bleeding in adolescence — focusing on early intervention and raising awareness of chronic conditions that are often overlooked in teenage girls.

• October: Fertility and cervical screening — covering fertility challenges and stressing the importance of regular screening to detect and prevent cervical cancer.

• November: Menopause revisited — offering more comprehensive support and information on managing symptoms and the broader impacts of menopause.

Each session will continue to be led by GPs with specific expertise in women’s health and will include practical guidance alongside opportunities for attendees to ask questions in a supportive environment.

The online format has made participation easier for many, especially those with busy schedules, limited mobility, or caregiving responsibilities. The organisers believe this accessibility is essential in removing barriers to vital health information.

Surrey Heartlands’ wider goal with this program is to promote inclusive, proactive healthcare education that empowers individuals to better understand and manage their health. By fostering open dialogue and offering credible advice in a judgment-free space, the webinars aim to reduce stigma and encourage earlier, more confident engagement with healthcare services.

In summary, the free GP-led webinars represent an important step in addressing women’s health education gaps and ensuring that more women have the knowledge and support they need to take control of their wellbeing.