The second phase of the Women's Health Plan has been published in Scotland, with £2.4 million to tackle gynaecological waiting times.

The plan includes goals to eliminate cervical cancer by 2040 and transform gynaecology services—ending long waits.

The original Women's Health Plan was published in 2021 and was the first of its kind in the UK.

The newly published second phase focuses on gynaecology transformation, eliminating cervical cancer and brain health priorities; better research, data and information on women's health; and prevention and early intervention throughout women's lives. It will also work on improving menopause and menstrual health, including endometriosis and supporting sexual and reproductive health and wellbeing.

A new £350,000 Women's Health Research Fund has also been launched in partnership with Wellbeing of Women. The fund will support research into menstrual and gynaecological health, menopause, pelvic floor health, healthy ageing and long-term conditions.

Women’s Health Minister Jenni Minto said: “This year, we have already allocated over £10.5 million for gynaecology, and I am very pleased to announce today a further commitment of £2.4 million to tackle the longest waits - bringing additional funding to nearly £13 million. Latest data shows that this investment is working, with longest waits for new outpatients having fallen by over 18%.

“Phase Two sets clear targets to transform women’s health in Scotland, ending long gynaecology waits, eliminating cervical cancer, and prioritising brain health to support women to live longer, healthier lives.

“We continue to improve menopause and menstrual health, support sexual and reproductive health, and have opened Scotland’s first Women’s Health Research Fund to tackle historic gaps in women’s health research.”

Scotland’s Women’s Health Champion, Professor Anna Glasier OBE said: "Phase Two is ambitious, and rightly so. I want women to be able to get the gynaecology care they need without delay, and for women and girls to have the vaccination and screening necessary to prevent cervical cancer. Increasing our focus on prevention and early intervention is vital so women live not just longer, but healthier lives.

“We have a consensus on where we want to get to and importantly, I think we have the commitment and enthusiasm needed to get there."