Women’s health technology company Ovum has raised $1.7 million to develop what it calls the first holistic AI-driven health assistant designed specifically for women. Led by Giant Leap, the funding round also included Antler, Wollemi Capital, Nakatomi Venture Studio, Alice Anderson Fund, and other investors. The company had previously received a $20,000 grant through the LIFTwomen APAC cohort.
Founded by Dr. Ariella Heffernan-Mark, a medical doctor and reproductive biology specialist, Ovum is building an AI-powered platform that integrates medical records, biometric data, and menstrual tracking to provide women with personalized health insights. Following a successful beta test, the platform allows users to track health concerns and ask questions while ensuring privacy. Clinical trials are set to begin in 2025 in partnership with the George Institute for Global Health.
Dr. Heffernan-Mark emphasized that AI has the potential to close the $1 trillion gender health gap, pointing out that one in two Australian women suffers from a chronic health condition, while one million Australian women endure endometriosis, often waiting seven to twelve years for diagnosis. She stated that Ovum represents a crucial technological shift in women’s healthcare, offering solutions tailored to their unique and often complex medical needs.
Backing the innovation, Antler partner James McClure described Dr. Heffernan-Mark’s vision as both essential and inspiring, praising her determination to enhance women’s health outcomes through AI-driven technology.
