However, this is beginning to change, thanks to the rapid advancements in digital tools and artificial intelligence (AI). These innovations are revolutionising women’s health by enabling more personalised care, improving diagnostics, and tackling long-standing health disparities.

The intersection of AI, digital tools, and women’s health holds immense potential, with the ability to not only address existing gaps but also empower women to take charge of their health in new ways.

One of the most significant developments in this area is the use of AI to challenge longstanding myths and misconceptions about women’s health conditions. For example, a recent breakthrough in AI technology is dispelling the myth that heart disease is primarily a male issue. Historically, heart disease has been viewed as a condition affecting mostly men, leading to a lack of research and attention on how it manifests in women. However, AI-powered algorithms are now able to analyse massive datasets and identify patterns in how heart disease affects women differently than men, ensuring that more targeted treatments and preventive measures are developed for female patients.

The application of AI in this context is part of a broader movement in healthcare to ensure that women are not overlooked in medical research. According to an article by Chief Healthcare Executive, making the business case for women’s health research is becoming increasingly important. Investors, innovators, and healthcare leaders are recognising the growing demand for better understanding of women’s health needs, which in turn is driving a surge in funding and development for women-centric health solutions. AI is playing a critical role here by enhancing the precision and speed of research.

Through machine learning and predictive analytics, AI can quickly identify emerging health trends, personalise care recommendations, and predict health risks specific to women. This data-driven approach is not only more accurate but also more inclusive, helping to break down the barriers that have historically limited research in women’s health.

As AI and digital tools continue to shape the future of women’s health, the potential to address critical issues like gender disparities in healthcare is becoming a reality. Take, for instance, reproductive health. AI-powered applications are already enabling women to track their menstrual cycles, predict ovulation, and monitor symptoms related to conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and endometriosis. These technologies not only empower women to better understand their own bodies but also provide healthcare professionals with valuable data to improve diagnosis and treatment options. By integrating these digital tools into women’s daily lives, we are empowering women to be active participants in their healthcare, shifting the narrative from being passive recipients of care to becoming informed decision-makers.

In addition to improving individual care, AI is also streamlining broader healthcare systems by enhancing clinical decision-making. In the case of women’s health, AI is already being used to predict and diagnose conditions such as breast cancer and ovarian cancer at earlier stages, allowing for more effective treatment. In some instances, AI systems can analyse medical imaging with greater accuracy than human doctors, identifying subtle patterns that might otherwise go unnoticed. These systems are already helping to save lives by catching diseases before they progress too far.

As women’s health and femtech industries continue to evolve, collaboration will be key to their success. The integration of AI and digital health tools can only go so far if the ecosystem around these technologies doesn't support and collaborate on research, funding, and public outreach. This is where women supporting each other becomes crucial. Encouraging collaboration within the women’s health space – across startups, tech innovators, investors, and healthcare professionals – will enable more holistic, impactful solutions. By fostering an environment of shared knowledge and resources, we can ensure that digital health tools and AI are leveraged in ways that benefit all women, especially those from underserved communities who have historically faced barriers to healthcare access.

Ultimately, the future of women’s health will rely on the collective efforts of those who recognise the importance of innovation, inclusivity, and collaboration. As more research, data, and solutions emerge, the gap in women’s health will continue to close. The combination of AI and digital health tools is not only empowering women to take control of their health, but it is also enabling the next generation of healthcare professionals to provide care that is more equitable, personalised, and effective.

For more startup news, check out the other articles on the website, and subscribe to the magazine for free. Listen to The Cereal Entrepreneur podcast for more interviews with entrepreneurs and big-hitters in the startup ecosystem.