The German Federal Ministry of Research is prioritizing the development of innovative contraceptive methods applicable to both genders, aiming to shift the responsibility of family planning beyond women. Minister Dorothee Bär announced the allocation of dedicated funding within the government budget to accelerate progress in this area over the coming years.
The initiative reflects a broader commitment to advancing women’s health, which will be a central theme of the Ministry’s “Future of Medicine” year in 2026. This thematic focus intends to address the current disparities in medical research, where the male body has historically served as the primary reference point. Minister Bär emphasized the need to acknowledge and account for the physiological differences within the female body, leading to more targeted and effective healthcare solutions.
A key area of focus within the women’s health agenda is endometriosis research. The Ministry has significantly increased funding for research into this condition, doubling the annual investment from €3.5 million to €8.5 million. While acknowledging this as a crucial step, Minister Bär stressed the ongoing need for increased awareness and more extensive research given the significant unmet needs within this field.