Femtech startups are female-centric technology startups that support and focus on women’s health and wellness. This sector of companies includes nursing, pregnancy, fertility, period-tracking, sexual wellness, and reproductive care issues. The term was coined by Ida Tin, a Danish entrepreneur, in 2016. Femtech largely incorporates standard digital health monitoring tools for women, such as internet-connected medical devices, wearables, hygiene products, mobile applications, etc.
According to Frost and Sullivan’s report, the global venture funding and investment for femtech amounted to $1.69 billion in the first half of the year 2019. This number is estimated to go up to $9 billion by the year 2024.
The majority of femtech startups’ initial focus was on periods and pregnancy, thereby bringing knowledge and innovation to an area that was previously ignored or disregarded by male investors. Fortunately, femtech has now expanded its roots to other areas of importance as well. For instance, previously, the medical trials and diagnosis were only focused on men and had tended to ignore the fact that women’s bodies are different and may react contrarily to various medicines or trials.
Numerous femtech companies aim to provide solutions to women’s health and wellbeing. So which of the European femtech startups are at the cutting edge and making a difference in the world? Based on our research, here are the top femtech startups to watch in the EU:
- Lattice Medical – a French startup that uses bioengineering to treat breast cancer
- Cocoro – a Spanish startup for menstrual underwear
- Gazella – a Spanish startup that provides a fitness app for women
- Freda – based in London and providing organic menstrual hygiene products
1Lattice Medical
Lattice Medical was launched in 2017. It is a biomedical startup that uses 3D technology with CHU Lille-France that allows the natural regeneration of the adipose tissue. Lattice Medical uses disruptive personalized and bioabsorbable implants for breast augmentation and reconstruction. The company uses an original approach that combines the actual reconstruction technics for a simple, affordable, and more accessible surgery to women, hence, a bioabsorbable prosthesis.
Lattice Medical is able to offer innovative solutions and the technology for biomedical projects to explore new horizons for technological advancements thanks to its integrated platform. Lattice Medical is also helping other medical professionals and experts to transition towards 3D technology.
The startup is currently involved in developing the first ISO 13485 production with 3D printing to design personalized implantable resorbable medical devices. The new platform is embedded with 3D printing technology that research and development trials, prototypes, industrial series, pre-series, pre-clinical, and clinical studies at low pollution levels.
The technology involves the use of autologous adipose tissue combined with a 3D print absorbable implant, enabling it to get the desired results with one simple operation. This boosts the production and regeneration of the fat cells. The use of 3D printing makes it possible to design a personalized implant to restore the former structure of the breast, using MRI or CT scan images.
2Cocoro Intim
Cocoro knickers use three different types of layers of material that enable the absorption of urine losses, vaginal discharge, and menstrual fluid. You can use this product on its own or couple it with another product, such as a tampon or a menstrual cup.
What are the materials used in Cocoro knickers?
The three materials used are:
- Cotton: cotton is recommended by most gynecologists, and this fabric is the one in contact with the most intimate skin. Some of the knickers are completely lined with cotton only.
- Polyester: Polyester is another technical material that has absorbing qualities. It is also breathable and antibacterial, ideal for underwear linings. This material is hidden between cotton and the external layer.
- Varied Materials: The final layer varies according to each model. But the main focus is on quality and comfort.
Can the knickers be worn all day long?
Just like any other product used during the menstrual cycle, the amount of time you can wear cocoro knickers depends on several factors:
- The stage of your menstrual cycle
- How you use the product (on its own or combined with another product)
- The amount of menstrual fluid
However, on lighter days, you will be able to use the product all day long, whereas, on heavier days, you will have to change it after a couple of hours or combine it with another product.
How long will they last?
These knickers can last for about two years, provided that you follow the washing instructions and take care of them. The material can be washed at least 60 times; following that, it will lose its properties.
3Gazella
Gazella is a fitness application designed for women and their menstrual cycles. This app aims to change the way women practice fitness around the world and provides a range of training exercises, diets, and plans that change according to the menstrual cycle. The nutritional side of the app was developed by Marta Verona, who won Master Chef Spain. The app was launched in 2018 and is available on Apple Store and Google Play. It has gained wide attention from the media, including cosmopolitan magazine, Women’s Health, and InStyle.
4Freda
Freda is a subscription brand that provides personalized, natural products for feminine hygiene, bringing convenience, transparency, and knowledge to the feminine care space. The service delivers menstrual and other feminine hygiene-related products across Europe to increase availability and ease for every woman. A female entrepreneur, Affi Parvizi-Wayne, founded the company.
Freda also donates some of its products to various organizations, requesting them to distribute them to women belonging to poor communities. The startup has gained immense positive attention and appreciation from people and has been featured in Vogue, the Guardian, and The Huffington Post.
5Conclusion
The concept of a femtech is still relatively new in the market and has created ease and convenience for many women out there, especially women living in poor societies. Femtech now encompasses everything ranging from period trackers to genetic testing and has revolutionized the medical world for women.
