Gender equality and women's empowerment play a vital role in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) outlined by the United Nations. Acknowledging the significance of SDG 5, which explicitly targets gender equality and the empowerment of all women and girls, it's worth noting that these elements are fundamentally tied to all 17 goals. Each goal, whether it pertains to poverty eradication, quality education, or climate action, is directly or indirectly affected by gender dynamics. Gender inequality inhibits economic growth (SDG 8) by depriving economies of the full potential of half its population, thereby exacerbating poverty (SDG 1) and hunger (SDG 2). Additionally, gender-based discrimination can limit access to quality education (SDG 4) and decent work (SDG 8) for women and girls, further perpetuating inequality. In health matters, gender roles and stereotypes often result in disparities in healthcare access and outcomes (SDG 3). With respect to environmental sustainability (SDGs 13, 14, and 15), women, particularly those in rural areas, bear the brunt of climate change impacts, but they also hold unique knowledge and skills crucial for mitigation and adaptation strategies. Likewise, women's underrepresentation in decision-making roles limits their influence on peace and justice (SDG 16) and partnerships for goals (SDG 17). Thus, achieving gender equality isn't only about justice for women and girls, but also about progress on every SDG. Women's empowerment creates a multiplier effect that boosts economic growth and promotes sustainable development, thereby setting a direct path towards achieving the SDGs. Encouragingly, concerted efforts worldwide are recognizing and amplifying women's roles in society, placing gender equality and women's empowerment at the heart of the SDGs. Such advancements signify a positive stride towards a balanced and equitable world.
The Lancet Obstetrics, Gynaecology, & Women's Health, Volume 1, Issue 3, November 2025, Pages e189-e197
This study represents the first clinical trial of dichloroacetate, a non-hormonal treatment, for endometriosis-associated pain in 30 women, demonstrating that recruitment and treatment are feasible despite common but manageable side effects. The research directly relates to International Women's Day by addressing endometriosis, a chronic condition affecting an estimated 190 million women worldwide that causes debilitating pelvic pain and infertility, highlighting the urgent need for better treatment options for women's health.
The Lancet Obstetrics, Gynaecology, & Women's Health, Volume 1, Issue 2, October 2025, Pages e122-e131
This is the largest cohort study to date of women with hyperemesis gravidarum, and it is the first to explore a wide array of neuropsychiatric and mental health outcomes, including psychotic disorder. Evidence study suggests that while hyperemesis gravidarum increases the risk of poor mental health compared to unaffected pregnancies, the link between its severity and psychiatric burden is complex. The lower depression risk in cases with metabolic disturbance versus mild disease may reflect varying levels of healthcare support.
The Lancet Obstetrics, Gynaecology, & Women's Health, Volume 1, Issue 2, October 2025, Pages e114-e121
This first large-scale study of the E-MOTIVE intervention in South Asia, conducted across eight Pakistani hospitals with over 14,000 women, showed significant reductions in severe postpartum hemorrhage outcomes and improved adherence to timely bundled treatment.
This article was released in honor of International Women's Day as a two-part special examining gender dynamics in infectious diseases and clinical microbiology, featuring discussions on gender bias, workplace challenges, and systemic barriers affecting women in medicine. The episodes directly support UN SDG Goal 5 (Gender Equality) by addressing gender equity issues in healthcare professions and exploring solutions to promote more inclusive, supportive environments for all medical professionals regardless of gender.
The Lancet Obstetrics, Gynaecology, & Women's Health, Volume 1, Issue 1, September 2025, Page e1
The inaugural Editorial of the journal through which we pledged our commitment to improving the lives of half the world's population by acting as their voice and serving as a platform for continued advocacy on their behalf. Much has been written about problems in women's health; now is the time for solutions. Many of the historic issues in women's health will not be resolved overnight. The Lancet Obstetrics, Gynaecology, & Women's Health will continue this legacy and integrate women's health with obstetrics and gynaecology as an indivisible alliance between communities and disciplines.
