In this piece on women’s healthcare, guest contributor Ifeoma Nneka Emelurumonye provides insight into the best resources available to women in Nigeria.
When we talk about the state of women’s healthcare in Africa, particularly in Nigeria, there are so many layers involved. There are stigmas, taboos, cultural differences, religion, access to money and everything in between.
In my newsletter, I once wrote that in Nigeria, a woman’s value is often measured by her ability to get pregnant, carry the pregnancy, and give birth. Whether or not we all agree with this expectation, the truth is that our healthcare system does not always give women the support they need.
In many rural areas, basic health services are missing, and this is one of the reasons Nigeria still faces some of the highest maternal mortality rates in the world.
At the same time, things are changing. Nigerians have a way of finding solutions: “We no dey carry last.” And our technology has become one of our biggest tools for improving access to healthcare. Almost everyone has a phone now, and many startups have used that to bring health services to the average Nigerian woman.
Today, I want to spotlight some of the businesses across Nigeria and Africa that are making a real difference. These organisations are helping women navigate health challenges at every life stage: adolescence, motherhood and through ageing. They place Black, African, and Nigerian women at the centre of the experience.
For your maternal health
HelpMum focuses on simple, affordable ways to keep mothers and babies safe. They provide clean birth kits, send vaccination reminders, and run community programs that teach safe pregnancy practices. Their work is proof that even basic, low-cost tools can save lives when they reach the right people.
Babymigo is a friendly digital community for pregnant women and new parents. Through their app and SMS service, women can get reminders for antenatal visits, track their baby’s progress, ask questions, and join support groups. It’s a helpful guide through pregnancy and early motherhood.
Natal Cares supports pregnant women in low-income and rural communities. They focus on education, awareness, and early antenatal care — helping women recognise warning signs and seek help on time. Their work brings maternal health information to places where it’s often missing.
For access to medication and pharmaceuticals
Famasi Africa helps women access their medications easily and on time. Whether it’s treatment for hormonal issues, postpartum recovery, or chronic conditions, Famasi delivers medicines to your door and reminds you to stay on track. It takes away the stress of pharmacy queues and missing doses.
Lifestores Healthcare strengthens local pharmacies so women can get the medicines and products they need. They provide drugs like pregnancy supplements and contraceptive pills. They support pharmacies and improve stock availability, they make essential health pharmaceuticals more reliable and affordable.
For menstrual & reproductive health
PadUp Creations makes affordable, reusable menstrual pads for girls and women across Nigeria. Their work helps reduce period poverty and keeps girls in school, because no one should have to miss class or work just because they’re menstruating.
SkyGirl Nigeria engages teenage girls with fun, relatable content about menstrual health, hygiene, confidence, and emotional well-being. Their approach helps young girls understand their bodies and build healthy habits early in life.
For women’s mental health
She Write Woman is changing the conversation around mental health in Nigeria. They offer crisis support, counselling, and safe spaces where women can talk openly about their struggles. Their message is clear: your mental health matters, your feelings are valid, and help is available.
Blueroomcare is a digital therapy platform making mental health support accessible and affordable. Women can speak with trained therapists from home, anonymously if they want. For many, it’s the first time they feel truly heard.
Together, these organisations show what’s possible when women’s healthcare is treated with the urgency, dignity, and innovation it deserves. By combining community support with technology, they are closing long-standing gaps and giving Nigerian and African women the tools to care for their bodies, minds, and futures — proving that real change happens when women are placed at the centre.
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