A HAMPSHIRE hospital has been putting women first this week.

Nuffield Health, the UK’s largest not-for-profit healthcare provider, says the Women’s Health Week at its Wessex Hospital in Chandler’s Ford has been a huge success.

More than 150 women have signed up to take part in a series of events during the week and more than 300 have called the special helpline.

Women’s Health Week, a five-day event running until this Friday (September 25) is open to all women who may have a health worry.

Hospital director Peter Howgrave-Graham said: “Nuffield Health is committed to improving the health and wellbeing of local people and the events this week will provide local women with a great opportunity to seek free advice and information from our team of experts. I am delighted with the interest shown in the programme of events and that attendance is so high.”

More than 40 women attended the first event on Monday evening to hear consultant gynaecologist Mr Ash Monga, speak about prolapse and urinary incontinence.

Mr Monga said: “The fact is many women just don’t know the true state of their health so I have been delighted that so many have picked up the phone or indeed taken the time to visit us at the hospital.

“We encourage ladies to have any unusual symptoms investigated early. In many cases they may be worrying unnecessarily, too busy to seek advice or even too embarrassed. Even a pressing pain or niggle is easy to ignore and it can be tempting to put off more serious issues and look to deal with them another day.”

The hospital’s gynaecological team is on hand all week to offer help and advice and their female physiotherapists can advise on how to strengthen pelvic floor muscles through exercise.

Women worried about their health can call the Wessex Hospital helpline (Monday to Friday, 9am-5pm) on 023 8098 435.