Lyon, March 8, 2026 – On the occasion of International Women’s Day, the spotlight is on four innovative medtech startups in Lyon and its vicinity that are significantly advancing women’s health. These companies – Healshape, Maholi, Laboratoires Üma, and Gynomed Innovations – are all members of Femtech France, an association founded in 2022 that unites over 80 French enterprises dedicated to women’s health innovation.
Healshape: Pioneering Breast Reconstruction Post-Cancer
Healshape, a Lyon-based startup, is developing a 100% natural and resorbable bioprosthesis for breast reconstruction following a mastectomy. This 3D-printed prosthesis, created with bio-ink, is designed to resorb within a few months, allowing the original tissues to complete the reconstruction process. Led by Sophie Brac de la Perrière, Healshape is currently preparing a nine-million-euro fundraising round to support the clinical trials scheduled to commence in late 2026.
Innovations for Menopause: Gynomed and Laboratoires Üma
The approach to menopause and its management is undergoing a significant shift, highlighted by a parliamentary report in April 2025 that proposed 25 recommendations for better supporting women over 45. Lyon is at the forefront of this change, with the Femme Mère Enfant hospital opening the first dedicated menopause pathway in the city.
Gynomed Innovations: Photobiomodulation for Vulvovaginal Symptoms
Founded in October 2025 by gynecologist-obstetrician Etienne Beaufils and entrepreneur Olivier Beaufils, Gynomed Innovations, based in Ecully near Lyon, is developing a vulvovaginal photobiomodulation device. This device aims to treat genitourinary syndrome of menopause, which includes symptoms like vaginal dryness, irritation, dyspareunia, and increased urinary infections. According to Etienne Beaufils, many women suffer from these symptoms, often mistakenly believing them to be normal. The technology combines red and near-infrared LEDs to promote rehydration of the vaginal mucosa. The company plans to have a functional prototype of this Class IIb medical device by the end of 2026. A patent application has received positive feedback from the INPI, validating the inventiveness of five out of ten claims. The Bluetooth-connected device will be usable at home via a smartphone application.
Laboratoires Üma: Natural and Hormone-Free Supplements
Founded in Lyon in 2022, Laboratoires Üma offers natural and hormone-free food supplements to support women during and after menopause. Their range includes
