Following the launch of their Women’s Health Patient and Public Involvement (PPI) Group, we spoke with the organisers to learn a little more about them, how the group came to be, and why it is so important that women have this forum.
Who runs the Women’s Health PPI Group?
We are four individuals with different backgrounds working under the University!
Dr Nicola Tempest is a Senior Lecturer and Subspecialist in Reproductive Medicine and Consultant Gynaecologist at the University of Liverpool and Liverpool Women’s Hospital. She spends 50% of her time as a consultant in the NHS doing theatre sessions, clinics, IVF and ambulatory sessions, and the rest doing research into all things gynaecology and women’s health, within the endometrial research group at the Centre for Women’s Health Research.
Dr Alison Maclean is an NIHR Academic Clinical Lecturer and Specialist Registrar in Obstetrics and Gynaecology. Alison spends half of her time doing research and half working clinically in the NHS in Obstetrics and Gynaecology. Her research focuses on the endometrium and diseases like adenomyosis and endometriosis.
Lorna Salvini is a PhD student at the University of Liverpool/Centre for Women’s Health Research, studying fibroids, non-cancerous (benign) growths that develop in or around the uterus (womb). Lorna is a scientist by background.
Eleanor Bristow is also a PhD student with the University of Liverpool and has a degree in psychology. Eleanor is studying the psychological aspects of chronic pelvic pain.
What is the Women’s Health PPI group?
Our Women’s Health PPI group is an open, supportive and welcoming space for anyone to join and discuss women’s health, specific conditions, research and new ideas. Our tag line is:
‘Your voice, our shared vision, together shaping the future of women's health research.’
We REALLY mean this! We want ALL the research we do to meet the needs and wants of the women we are doing it for.
Examples of previous topics we have discussed in meetings are:
- The use of CBD (Cannabidiol) infused tampons for relieving pain
- Ideal treatments for chronic pelvic pain
- Thoughts on different types of contraception
- What is taught in school about menstruation?
We host these meetings every few months and vary from in-person to online meetings. We reimburse all our attendees for their time with Amazon vouchers and always provide yummy refreshments at our in-person sessions.
What motivated you to start the Women’s Health PPI group?
We started the Women’s Health PPI group to ensure women’s voices are central to the research that affects them. Too often, women's health issues are under-researched or misunderstood. Creating this safe, supportive space empowers women to speak openly about their experiences. Their input brings vital insight that helps shape more relevant, effective, and meaningful research. Public and patient involvement isn’t optional - it’s essential for research that truly reflects the needs of those it aims to serve.
How have you found the process of running PPI group meetings so far?
It’s been a really positive experience. We've found the process enjoyable, engaging, and rewarding. Discussions so far have been super insightful and inspiring, and it's been great to see how quickly the group has started to influence current research. This includes shaping study design in funding applications, highlighting overlooked issues, and bringing real-life perspectives into our work. These conversations and patient and public input are SO valuable to us.
Have you received any feedback from attendees?
Attendees often contact us after our meetings to let us know what they have enjoyed and their intention to attend future meetings. Feedback has been super encouraging.
Can anyone join?
YES! Anyone over 18 can join our PPI group members list regardless of who they are, their background, or whether they experience women's health issues. Every opinion, view, idea, and perspective matters.
More information can be found on the Women’s Health Patient and Public Involvement (PPI) Group website.
Click this link to join our PPI group member list and receive emails about our upcoming events, or you can contact us at womenshealthppi@liverpool.ac.uk.