A recent survey conducted by Practo, an online doctor consultation platform, has revealed that gynaecology is now the most consulted medical speciality among women in India. Women aged 25-34 accounted for 60% of all gynaecological consultations on the platform, marking a significant shift from a 2018 survey, which found that 24% of women had never consulted an obstetrician or gynaecologist.
According to the 2024 survey, gynaecology made up 19% of all consultations sought by women on the app,surpassing general physician consultations, which stood at 18%. The report highlighted a growing awareness of reproductive and hormonal health, with women increasingly seeking medical advice for concerns such as infertility, abortion, breast pain, PCOS/PCOD, and irregular periods.
The survey also underscored a rising focus on mental well-being, with marriage counseling and individual therapy emerging as top searches, alongside treatments for hair loss, skin allergies, and piles.
The findings, released on International Women’s Day, showed that gynaecology consultations (19%) outpaced general dermatology (14%), general paediatrics (8%), and orthopaedics (6%). Additionally, 76% of these consultations came from Tier 1 cities, followed by 17% from Tier 2 cities, while the remaining 7% were from other regions. Among Tier 1 cities, Delhi NCR accounted for 33% of gynaecology consultations on the platform, followed by Bengaluru (28%), Mumbai (12%), Hyderabad (11%), Pune (10%), and Chennai (6%).
Commenting on the trend, Dr. Basavaraj Devarashetty of Vishvas Fertility and Gynecology Centre noted that gynaecological consultations were traditionally linked to pregnancy or urgent medical concerns. However, the recent surge in consultations reflects a broader awareness and proactive approach to women’s health.