Addressing waiting times for gynaecology care

Why waiting times matter

Long waiting lists in gynaecology have a profound impact on women and their families. Many women have told us that their physical and mental health has worsened whilst waiting for care, and that their condition and symptoms impact their work and social lives.

We also know gynaecology waiting lists are also impacting professionals across the health system, including many of our members. The current state of gynaecology waiting lists across the UK should concern all of us, especially as women, who make up 51% of the population of the UK, are being prevented from living full, healthy lives and reaching their potential.

Our role

The RCOG is committed to supporting policymakers across the UK to address gynaecology waiting times, so that all women, wherever they live, can access the high-quality and timely care they need. In our 2022 report, Left for too long, we highlighted the impact of gynaecology waiting lists on women and on the wider health system. We called for a shift in the way gynaecology was prioritised across the health service and for recognitions to be given to the impact of long waiting times on patients.

This year, we have undertaken research with women and people on gynaecology waiting lists and professionals across the health system to support our new report, Waiting for a way forward. Our new report builds on the findings of our Left for too long report, illustrating that waiting times for gynaecology have worsened in all parts of the UK, with women living in areas of higher deprivation often waiting the longest for treatment.  

Key projects

Explore our work to understand the scale of the issue and the changes needed: