Women’s health is an area that’s ripe for innovation.
Between the lack of funding in women’s research and the existing gender health gap, it’s clear that more attention needs to be paid to this demographic. (1, 2)
Thankfully, more startups are starting to focus on demystifying and addressing women’s health issues. Companies like Chiyo, Maven Clinic, and LunaJoy are doing their part to offer more holistic, targeted solutions for all aspects of women’s health.
Another startup that’s recently entered the space is Evvy Health.
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What does Evvy Health do?
Evvy Health — which was launched in 2021 by Priyanka Jain — is the first vaginal healthcare platform to combine comprehensive vaginal microbiome testing, personalized prescription treatment, and one-on-one health coaching. According to a statement by Jain:
"The status quo in vaginal health is simply unacceptable given how prevalent these conditions are and how significantly they impact our quality of life. That's why we decided to leverage our first-of-its-kind data platform and scientific advisory board to develop a new standard of care that women and people with vaginas can access from the comfort of their own home."
According to the Evvy Health website, their at-home vaginal microbiome test is the only CLIA-certified, mNGS vaginal health test.
For certain tests, a provider may be able to review the results and develop a custom two-month program, which can include prescription medication and research-backed supplements. It is important to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the best approach for individual health needs.
Why does this matter?
Many women visit the doctor for vaginal conditions like yeast infections and urinary tract infections. It is suggested that around 90% of these may be associated with imbalances in the vaginal microbiome. (1)
Despite this, standard treatment protocol often includes a one-size-fits-all approach to antibiotics, without taking each patient’s individual health into consideration. This can have unintended effects.
It’s well-known, for instance, that up to 50% of all antibiotics prescribed may not be prescribed appropriately or may not be needed at all. This could lead to unnecessary side effects, as well as an increased chance of antibiotic resistance.
Some studies have even found that antibiotics may contribute to yeast infections or exacerbate an existing issue. (2)
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Looking forward
With Evvy Health, there’s an opportunity for women to receive more personalized care when it comes to their vaginal health.
A study found that 100% of Evvy’s patients reported an improvement in symptoms, and 83% had more balanced microbiomes as a result of treatment. It is important to note that individual results may vary, and consulting with a healthcare provider is recommended.
In 2023, Evvy helped more than 20,000 patients, while also raising $19 million in funding. The company’s clinical care offering is also now available in 34 states.
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