Dr Elrike van der Merwe

01/05/2026

We so often overlook the “they were your babies” part when we focus on the medical side which always only involves the woman. Remember the dad.

04/02/2026

Great news for women’s health in South Africa! The Department of Health launched the 2026 HPV vaccination drive on February 2, targeting girls aged 9 and older to prevent cervical cancer, which claims over 3,000 lives yearly. With over 5,700 new cases annually and expanded access to public and private schools, this free, safe vaccine—proven effective since 2014—empowers the next generation. Parents, sign those consent forms and protect our daughters!

The Department of Health will this week (Monday, 02 February) kick-off the 2026 Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) Vaccination drive to protect girls aged 9 years and older from developing cervical cancer later in life. South Africa continues to record a high number of cases of cervical cancer and related....

25/01/2026

https://www.who.int/news/item/25-09-2025-contraceptive-use--a-catalyst-for-women-s-health-and-socioeconomic-empowerment

A new evidence brief from the United Nations’ Special Programme in Human Reproduction (HRP) and the World Health Organization (WHO) underscores the transformative impact of contraceptive use on women’s health and socioeconomic status.

12/12/2024

Excellent, and game changing, work.
https://www.facebook.com/share/p/19WLeV6EV7/?mibextid=WC7FNe

Kyla Raoult, a recent master’s degree graduate in Polymer Science, has developed an innovative, on-demand hydrogel that could offer men a safer, reversible, and non-hormonal contraceptive option.

This soft, jelly-like material forms a barrier in the vas deferens (the tube that carries s***m) to block s***m, while still allowing seminal fluid to pass. The best part? It’s completely reversible with a simple injection.

While still in its developmental stages, Raoult’s groundbreaking work could provide a much-needed alternative to traditional methods, offering men a less invasive and hormone-free solution to prevent unwanted pregnancies.

Want to learn more about how this could revolutionise contraception for men? Click to read more: https://www.sun.ac.za/english/Lists/news/DispForm.aspx?ID=11037

21/11/2024

I have verified the news below through the Bayer website.
Please take note and spread the info along to family and friends.

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1GmRg3ujRj/?mibextid=WC7FNe

To all those ladies on Yaz-plus, please take note of this very important recall message. A massive mistake has been made with packaging the right pills in the correct area of the blister pack.

31/07/2024

Some sobering facts, but also very exciting developments.
Three life-changing inventions:
1. Long acting and self administered contraception
2. A simple way to monitor bleeding after a delivery
3. One dose vaccine for HPV

Less than 1% of research funding goes to studies looking at non-cancer related conditions that affect women.
Closing that gender health gap can boost the world economy by $ 1 trillion by 2040.

Happy and healthy women mean happy and healthy communities.

The World Economic Forum is an independent international organization committed to improving the state of the world by engaging business, political, academic and other leaders of society to shape global, regional and industry agendas. Incorporated as a not-for-profit foundation in 1971, and headquar...

13/07/2024

Instagram Dr_elrike_van_der_merwe

12/07/2024

I am thrilled to announce that I will be resuming my women's health sessions! After a brief hiatus, I simply cannot wait to dive back into this incredibly rewarding and impactful area of healthcare.

As a dedicated advocate for women's wellness, I am eager to reconnect with both existing and new clients to provide the exceptional care and support you deserve. Whether you're seeking guidance on preventive health, managing a specific condition, or simply prioritizing your overall well-being, my upcoming sessions will be tailored to meet your unique needs.

Stay tuned for more details on the specific offerings, schedules, and registration information. I can't wait to welcome you back and continue our journey towards optimal health and empowerment.

This is an exciting new chapter, and I'm thrilled to have you along for the ride. Get ready to elevate your wellness like never before!