Egypt: How Egyptian Femtech Is Tackling Taboos Around Women's Health

What the report says

Cairo’s growing femtech sector is trying to make women’s health information and products more accessible in Egypt, where cultural stigma, limited understanding and the cost of care can discourage women from seeking help. The RFI report says many health expenses are paid out of pocket, and notes that medical coverage remains limited for many women, creating barriers that technology companies are seeking to address.

One example is Aziza, a mobile app founded by Nesma Amin in 2023 and designed around menstruation, pregnancy tracking and answers to user questions. Amin said the service was built to use culturally familiar Arabic and to avoid the tone or assumptions common in some foreign apps. The report also quotes medical anthropologist Sohayla El Fakahany, who says culturally sensitive language is central to whether women and girls will trust a digital health platform.

The story also highlights broader femtech activity, including Cairo-based Shemsi, which makes reusable period underwear. Its chief executive, Hatem Elkady, said the company is trying to challenge long-standing taboos around menstrual products while also keeping costs manageable through reusable designs and installment plans.

Taken together, the developments suggest that Egypt’s women’s health market is expanding beyond software into physical products, while also confronting persistent stigma around menstruation, virginity and reproductive health.