Vanessa Kelly
Ase Tek has designed ‘The Vanessa’, a patented medical device, that removes barriers to pelvic examinations for women with vaginismus.
URL
Year founded
2023
Business stage
Pre-seed
High-growth sectors
Digital and Technologies
Sector
Health
Location
North West
Funding
Highly Commended
The problem and opportunity
Millions of women avoid, or cannot tolerate, essential gynaecological examinations due to pain, vaginismus, pelvic floor dysfunction, menopause, or cancer treatment. This leads to missed cervical screenings, delayed diagnosis and poorer outcomes. Existing tools do not address the root cause or improve comfort. Our solution enables access to vital care, reduces inequalities and supports earlier intervention while easing NHS pressure.
The solution and innovation
Ase Tek has designed a patented pelvic health device addressing barriers to intimate examinations for women with conditions such as vaginismus. Protected IP and user-centred design create a defensible innovation. Validation includes letters of support from key opinion leaders, Welsh Government backing and clinical engagement, demonstrating clear demand and adoption potential.
Market and ambition
Initially targeting private healthcare providers and direct-to-consumer sales before expanding into the NHS and international markets. Addressing a global pelvic health need affecting over 190 million women, with Welsh Government backing and clinician support. We aim to launch commercially within 2–3 years.
Founder perspective
As a psychotherapist and founder with lived experience, I understand the barriers women face during intimate examinations. That insight inspired ‘The Vanessa’. Combining clinical expertise with patient experience, I am leading the development of an innovation that addresses a long-overlooked unmet need.
Women in Innovation Award
Highly commended applicant of the Innovate UK Women in Innovation Award 2025/26, receiving tailored business support, and access to specialist training and networks. View all winners and highly commended applicants from the Women in Innovation cohort 2025/2026.