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Extending support through life's key moments

As employers continue to focus on attracting, retaining and supporting their people, there is increasing recognition of the importance of providing meaningful support through major life stages and health challenges.

Developments such as the Employment Rights Act 2025 have further highlighted the need for organisations to consider how they support employees experiencing pregnancy, early parenthood, fertility challenges and menopause, alongside broader men's and women's health needs.

Against this backdrop, we're pleased to introduce a number of enhancements, together with Peppy, designed to help employees access timely, personalised support from experienced healthcare professionals.

The early parenthood support service has been expanded to support parents with children up to five years old.

The service has also been renamed pregnancy and early parenthood support, making it clearer that support is available throughout pregnancy as well as during the early years of parenthood.

Employees can continue to access guidance from specialist practitioners on topics such as pregnancy, infant feeding, sleep, returning to work and emotional wellbeing.
Following a consultation with a specialist practitioner, employees may be offered access to additional testing or prescribing options where clinically indicated. Private prescriptions are payable by the individual and may cost more than NHS prescriptions.
Testosterone testing

Low testosterone levels can contribute to symptoms such as fatigue, reduced libido, low mood and difficulty building muscle mass.

Testing can help identify whether hormone levels may be contributing to symptoms, enabling employees to discuss appropriate next steps and treatment options with a qualified clinician.

Men's Ultimate Blood Test

A health screening test designed to provide a broad overview of an individual's health.

The test can help identify potential health concerns before symptoms become apparent, including issues relating to metabolic health, nutrition, cholesterol levels and other common health indicators. The results provide employees with a clearer understanding of their health and can support informed decisions about lifestyle changes or further treatment where required.

Other support

Additional support is also available through general health screening blood tests, prostate health assessments including PSA testing, testicular self-examination education and guidance, cholesterol tests and HbA1c testing for diabetes. Where clinically indicated, employees may be able to access private prescriptions for erectile dysfunction treatments and premature ejaculation treatments.

Private prescriptions are payable by the individual and may cost more than NHS prescriptions.
PMOS testing

PMOS (Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome), previously known as PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome), is a common hormonal condition affecting around one in ten women.

Symptoms can vary and may include irregular periods, fertility challenges, weight changes, acne and excess hair growth. Testing may help support earlier identification of the condition, enabling individuals to access appropriate advice, symptom management and ongoing clinical support sooner.

Other support

Additional diagnostic support now includes thyroid function testing, Vitamin B12 and Vitamin D testing, endometriosis assessments, HbA1c testing for diabetes, and a Women's Health MOT designed to provide a broader picture of health and wellbeing.

Employees can also access support and treatment options relating to contraception, vaginal health and fertility wellbeing. Where clinically indicated, this may include private prescriptions for contraceptive pills, patches and rings, vaginal health treatments and recommended supplements or vitamins to support fertility and general health.

Private prescriptions are payable by the individual and may cost more than NHS prescriptions.
Personalised HRT prescribing and treatment plans

Employees experiencing menopause symptoms can access expert menopause guidance alongside personalised private prescriptions where clinically appropriate.

Following an assessment, individuals may receive a tailored 12-week HRT prescription and treatment plan. This is supported by ongoing clinical review to ensure treatment remains appropriate and effective, helping employees better manage symptoms and improve day-to-day wellbeing.

Private prescriptions are payable by the individual and may cost more than NHS prescriptions.
Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH) testing

AMH testing provides information about ovarian reserve and can offer valuable insights for individuals who are planning for the future or exploring fertility concerns.

The test can help employees make more informed decisions about family planning and support conversations with fertility specialists.

Semen testing

A semen analysis assesses a number of factors relating to sperm and semen health.

The test may help identify factors that could be affecting fertility and can be useful for individuals who are experiencing difficulties conceiving or considering fertility treatment. Results can support earlier intervention and informed decisions about next steps.

Understanding the role of testing, treatment and specialist referrals

While the enhanced services provide access to a wider range of assessments, tests and clinically appropriate prescribing options, some aspects of care remain outside the scope of the service.

They do not prescribe fertility medications or medications associated with IVF treatment programmes. They also do not prescribe Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT), medications for prostate health and postnatal medications. And whilst practitioners may recommend supplements and vitamins to support fertility, menopause, pregnancy or general wellbeing, these are not prescribed by Peppy.

In addition, for pregnancy-related support, while practitioners can provide expert guidance throughout the journey, Peppy does not carry out blood testing for hormones such as hCG (Human chorionic gonadotrophin) or progesterone, nor infectious disease screening.

Where an employee's needs fall outside the scope of the service, practitioners can help individuals understand their options and signpost them towards the most appropriate healthcare provider or specialist service for further assessment or treatment.

Expert support employees can trust

All services continue to be delivered by Peppy's highly qualified healthcare professionals. Peppy practitioners have extensive clinical experience, qualifications and training.

This ensures employees receive evidence-based guidance, personalised support and access to appropriate care recommendations through a convenient digital experience.

Menopause users overall symptoms improved by 18% after using Peppy for 180 days

Results from 683 users, surveyed between August 2025 - August 2026

Menopause Rating Scale survey, Peppy

Supporting the changing needs of today's workforce

Employee expectations around workplace wellbeing continue to evolve. With greater awareness of the impact that fertility journeys, menopause symptoms, pregnancy, early parenthood and health concerns can have on wellbeing and productivity, employers are increasingly looking for ways to provide more personalised support.

These enhancements to our existing services provide targeted, expert-led support at the moments employees may need it most. By enabling earlier identification of potential health concerns, facilitating quick access to specialist advice and supporting informed healthcare decisions, these services can help employees feel better supported both inside and outside of work.

For employers, this can contribute to a more inclusive wellbeing offering that recognises the diverse and changing needs of today's workforce.

Available as part of existing services

These enhancements are included within AXA Health's existing standalone services, delivered by Peppy.

Accessing the support services themselves comes at no additional cost to eligible employees. Where clinically appropriate, employees may choose to access specific tests or private prescriptions. If medication is required, the employee is responsible for the cost, which may cost more than an NHS prescription. This would be paid on collection from a pharmacy. Alternatively, Peppy’s clinicians can provide the employee information about recommended tests or medication to share with their GP. There is no charge for at-home tests, but if an employee chooses to have these tests carried out at a clinic, this would incur an additional charge.

To learn more about these enhancements and how they can support your workforce, speak to your AXA Health account manager.

Man and woman in kitchen laughing as they prepare food

Guidance for employers

Men's and Women's Health

The health of your workforce depends on their wellbeing. Some employees may feel uncomfortable discussing specific health concerns or be unsure where to turn for help. Providing dedicated support can make all the difference - for work and home life.

Find out more

Fertility, early parenthood and menopause support

Be there for your employees during life’s most personal journeys. Offer expert guidance and support through fertility, early parenthood, and menopause.