These standards were developed by a working party set up by the European Board and College of Obstetrics and Gynaecology (EBCOG), a representative body of the obstetricians and gynaecologists in its 36 member countries, to look at various models of health service delivery, both within EU28 and beyond in order to address the disparity in accessibility to sexual and reproductive health services, in the quality of care and in clinical outcomes between countries and even within different regions of the same country.

Following extensive discussion and consultation with stakeholders, including input from European organisations representing women‟s interests, the working party produced this document outlining the standards of care for various clinical conditions which affect women throughout their lives.

These standards define a roadmap of quality service underpinned by clinical governance, safety and patient experience. The standards cover 25 key clinical areas including sexual and reproductive health, fertility regulation, the prevention and treatment of female cancers, benign gynaecology and access to emergency gynaecology treatment. Each standard is based on the best available evidence and supported by a set of quality outcome indicators to benchmark services. The standards address the necessary requirements for training and support for doctors and healthcare professionals.

EBCOG is urging Ministries of Health to adopt these standards of care, which can also be used by healthcare professionals to deliver the best possible health care, providing equitable and safe services with the best possible outcomes for women seeking gynaecological care anywhere in EU28 and beyond.