It is very easy to assume that we are living in an enlightened period in which women are valued equally to men. However, when it comes to medical treatment, there is still a large disparity.
Unfortunately, the medical world has become an increasingly volatile place for women, especially following the overturn of Roe V Wade. And no longer is this a problem in just the United States; this problem seems to have travelled to the UK.
Nigel Farage and the ADF
Nigel Farage, the leader of the ever-growing Reform UK, has been communicating with the right-wing anti-abortion group, the ADF, and on September 3rd, they orchestrated his appearance in US Congress. The Alliance Defending Freedom (ADF) operates internationally, working to campaign against reproductive rights. This is done under the guise of free speech; they are prone to use the dog whistle of the “free speech crisis”. The New York Times has suggested the ADF act as a “conduit” between MAGA republicans and the Reform Party.
Whilst Farage has claimed that abortion is extremely low on the Reform party’s list of priorities, he has commented on the 24-week limit as a “legal inconsistency” given that people try to save babies at 22 weeks. It is concerning, and women must remain aware of the possibility that the growing power of the Reform party could end with a very similar story to that in the US.
Is female health being taken seriously?
Endometriosis and PCOS remain relatively misunderstood, with most people unaware of their seriousness. Personally, I find that my main source of information becomes influencers online who suffer from these conditions. The lack of education in schools, both in primary and secondary and on to university, is unacceptable given how many women suffer from conditions of this nature. 1 in 10 females suffer from endometriosis alone, with it taking on average 8 months and 10 days to reach a diagnosis from the first GP appointment in the UK.
The Reproductive Rights Society at LeedsÂ
At the University of Leeds, the Reproductive Rights Society works towards fundraising and spreading awareness on issues relating to abortion and wider issues still faced by women in modern-day society. Last Monday, the society threw one of its biggest fundraisers, an event known as Your Right to Party, which invites bands to play to raise money for various charities concerned with reproductive rights and other issues faced by women internationally, such as FGM. If you are passionate about women’s rights or just want a supportive community who share your beliefs, then this society is the place for you!
Instagram: @reproductiverights_luu
References Used:
https://www.theendometriosisfoundation.org/facts
https://www.theguardian.com/global/2025/oct/16/nigel-farage-us-anti-abortion-group-women-britain
https://www.nytimes.com/2025/10/13/world/europe/uk-abortion-farage.html
Editor: Janelle Erskine