Welcome to EPIFEM Health: A Journey Towards the Highest Standard of Women’s Health
It has been deeply impressed upon my heart to begin this conversation, and I truly believe I am called to lead it.
I am Dr. Nshalati Salvation Mathebula, an MBChB graduate and currently a registrar in a Master’s program in Obstetrics and Gynaecology, with over seven years of experience caring for women in this field.
I still remember my very first day in the labour ward. The moment I gloved up and assisted in delivering a baby, I felt a profound sense of peace and an unshakable connection. In that moment, I knew this was more than a profession-it was my purpose.
Since then, it has been an incredible journey of serving women, not only through medical knowledge and clinical skill, but also through compassion, presence, and genuine care during some of the most significant moments of their lives.
Why EPIFEM Health?
I believe it is time for those of us who have dedicated years to studying and serving in this field to rise and share accurate, evidence-based information that truly serves women.
That being said, while I will be sharing trusted medical guidance and educational content, this platform does not replace a consultation with your obstetricians-gynaecologist. Every woman’s journey is unique, and healthcare decisions should always be individualized.
My hope is that through these conversations, you will feel empowered, informed, and equipped to make the best decisions for your health and well-being.
As they say, “Reading outside your field broadens your perspective.” May these conversations bring fresh insight, confidence, and understanding into your life.
What Is EPIFEM Health?
EPIFEM Health is a shortened form of Epitome of Feminine Health.
The word epitome means the highest standard or perfect example of something. EPIFEM Health therefore represents the highest standard of women’s health-excellent feminine health.
And because you deserve nothing less than the very best, I will affectionately address you as an EPIFEM Queen-a woman worthy of the highest level of care, wisdom, knowledge, and understanding about her body and health.
Together, we will create a space where women’s health is celebrated, nurtured, and elevated.
Understanding Obstetrics and Gynaecology
As I reflected on where to begin this journey, I felt it was important to first understand the field itself.
Many people hear the term “OBGYN” but are unsure what it truly encompasses.
Obstetrics
Obstetrics is the branch of medicine focused on pregnancy and childbirth. This includes:
- Preconception care
- Pregnancy care
- Labour and delivery
- Postpartum care
In simple terms, if it relates to pregnancy, you are seeing your obstetrician.
Gynaecology
Gynaecology focuses on conditions affecting the female reproductive system outside of pregnancy.
This includes:
- Menstrual disorders
- Contraception
- Fertility and infertility
- Menopause
- Reproductive health conditions
- Gynaecological cancers
- Urogynaecology and pelvic floor disorders
So, if it is unrelated to pregnancy, you are seeing your gynaecologist.
A fun fact you can confidently share in your circles!
In South Africa, these disciplines are combined into a single specialty, which is why we commonly use the term OBGYN.
What Does It Take to Become an OBGYN in South Africa?
Many people are surprised to learn how long the journey is.
It takes approximately 14 years of training and study before one can be fully qualified as a specialist obstetrician and gynaecologist.
This journey includes:
- 6 years of undergraduate medical studies
- 3 years of internship and community service
- 5 years of specialist training through a Master’s program in Obstetrics and Gynaecology
It is a demanding but deeply rewarding path, driven by a commitment to improving the lives of women and their families.
While OBGYN services continue to become more accessible across South Africa and have empowered countless women, we acknowledge that gaps still exist in some communities. Even so, we are privileged to live in a generation where access to women’s healthcare continues to improve.
Are Women Truly Informed About Their Health?
We live in a time when information is more accessible than ever before.
Women’s health applications, websites, social media platforms, and online communities provide an endless stream of information at our fingertips.
Yet despite this, many women still struggle to feel informed, confident, and empowered when making decisions about their health.
Why is that?
And perhaps even more importantly:
Why do so many women still find it difficult to speak openly about the symptoms they experience?
Is it fear?
Embarrassment?
Cultural expectations?
Lack of knowledge?
Past negative healthcare experiences?
These are conversations worth having, and I would love to hear your thoughts.
Breaking the Silence: Why Our Next Conversation Matters
As we begin this journey, I want to dedicate our next newsletter to a topic that is deeply personal to me: cervical cancer.
This conversation is in memory of my dear aunt, who was among the many women who struggled to openly discuss the symptoms she was experiencing.
I had the knowledge. I had the information.
Yet I never had the opportunity to share it with her in time.
That reality continues to leave me with deep sadness.
In honouring her memory, I hope we can break the silence together.
May this platform empower every EPIFEM Queen to speak up, seek help early, ask questions without fear, and recognize that shared knowledge has the power to save lives.
Let’s Build This Community Together
I would love to hear from you.
What topics in women’s health and wellness matter most to you?
What questions have you always wanted answered?
What conversations should we open together?
Thank you for choosing to journey with me.
I am honoured to walk alongside you as we learn, grow, and advocate for better health—one conversation at a time.
Because at EPIFEM Health, we believe that every woman deserves the highest standard of care.
And always remember:
Health is Wealth.
With love,
Dr. Nshalati Salvation Mathebula
Founder, EPIFEM Health
