In recent decades, the United States has seen a dramatic rise in the incarceration of women. While women continue to make up less than 10% of the total incarcerated population, their numbers are growing at a rate that has outpaced male incarceration in many states. According to the Sentencing Project (2023), the number of incarcerated women has increased more than 700% since 1980, a growth rate nearly double that of men. This increase has created unique challenges for correctional health care, where systems historically built around male populations are often ill-prepared to address women’s distinct health needs.

Correctional nurses stand at the forefront of this issue. Women entering jails and prisons often have complex medical, mental health, and social histories. Many struggle with substance use disorders, untreated chronic diseases, and a history of trauma or intimate partner violence. While pregnancy care is a well-recognized concern in this population, other women’s health issues—such as gynecological conditions, menstrual disorders, menopause, breast health, sexually transmitted infections, and the ongoing impact of trauma—are frequently overlooked or under-addressed in correctional environments.

Unlike the community setting, incarcerated women cannot choose their provider, request second opinions, or readily access specialists. As such, correctional nurses often become the first—and sometimes the only—health professionals to assess, identify, and respond to these health concerns. This reality requires a strong knowledge base, clinical vigilance, and a patient-centered approach that accounts for the unique barriers of the correctional system.

This course provides correctional nurses with evidence-based knowledge and practical strategies to manage common women’s health concerns in correctional facilities. Through real-world examples, discussion of pathophysiology, and correctional-specific interventions, participants will strengthen their ability to advocate for and deliver quality care to this vulnerable and growing population.