A group of women of different ages and races smiling

A health system that isn’t working equally for everyone

Why the Gender Health Gap matters

Recent research from laya healthcare, part of AXA shows a clear disparity in how men and women experience healthcare in Ireland.

In Ireland, women are more likely to downplay or hide symptoms at work, with 66% taking painkillers to push through the workday.

Our research reveals 83% of women experience menstrual or pelvic pain, with over 90% of younger females (18-44) affected. Fear of not being taken seriously leads over half of women to delay seeking medical help. This research highlights the gender gap in Irish healthcare. It uncovers hidden pain, shame and the common feeling of being dismissed.

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Laya's 24/7 Mental Wellbeing Support

Real Stories, Real Impact

While statistics show the scale of the problem, it’s personal stories that reveal the true cost of the gender health gap. Behind the stats are real lives. Real women. Real challenges. And the power of faster access to change the outcome. Watch Sandra’s story to hear her personal journey through Endometriosis and how she received faster care and support through Laya. She speaks about the difference it made to her daily life.

4 in 10 women suspect gender bias delayed their diagnosis
56% of women aged 25–44 say they’ve been ignored by a healthcare professional
37% delayed seeking help due to fear of not being taken seriously

GP Dr. Sumi Dunne

The Hidden Scale of Women’s Health Issues

Dr. Sumi Dunne, a GP specialising in women's health, added: “As a doctor, these findings reflect what I see in my practice every day. For too long, women's pain - especially period and pelvic pain – has been normalised or ignored. This research clearly shows the huge impact this has – not just on physical health, but on mental wellbeing, and even career growth. This gap is caused by a number of factors big and small, and I think even small initial steps can make a big difference and help close the gap. It's crucial that healthcare professionals have time to listen to women's experiences, and ensure they get the appropriate care at the right time, without bias or delay because of their gender."

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Benefits that help close the gap

As part of AXA, laya healthcare is committed to changing this.

By providing faster access to diagnostics, consultants, urgent care and mental health support, we’re closing the gap in real, practical ways.

24/7 Mental Wellbeing Support

Dealing with stress, fertility issues or menopause-related anxiety? Speak to a doctor or nurse anytime, day or night through our digital and tele health service

GP Live

Book a video consultation with a GP at no extra cost with prescriptions sent to your local pharmacy. Members can choose whether they see a male or female GP.

Laya Health & Wellbeing Clinics

Ireland’s fastest urgent care, be seen in under 60 minutes. Get scans in 5 days and results in 2.

Fertility Support:

Annual IVF benefits, AMH testing, pre-implantation genetic testing (PGT), and expanded fertility preservation including embryo freezing.

View all laya benefits

View our women's health guide

Laya Healthcare, Part of AXA.

Laya is now Part of AXA, the No.1 health insurer in Europe. AXA is tackling gender health inequalities through a €3.4m AXA Research Fund investment in over 20 research projects worldwide, from menopause and cardiovascular risk to the impact of hormones on health.

In Ireland, AXA funding supports Dr. Michelle Lavin (RCSI) in her work to reduce postpartum haemorrhage, a leading cause of maternal death. Under its global initiative “Being a woman shouldn’t be a risk”, AXA has also established a Research Lab on Gender Equality to close knowledge gaps and drive change.

Closing the Gender Health Gap

It shouldn't be a risk to be a woman. Discover how laya healthcare is bridging Ireland's Gender Health Gap.