A story of member Eske Ruijters: understanding Women’s Health through science and connection.
This month, we’re putting the spotlight on Eske Ruijters, health scientist specialized in lifestyle medicine and clinical psychoneuroimmunology (cPNI). In her practice, Eske helps women facing gynecological and hormonal challenges such as PCOS, PMS/PMDD, and fertility issues, by identifying and addressing the underlying causes rather than symptoms.
Can you tell us a little about your background?
I studied Health Sciences at the Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, while working in a medical clinic in the gynecology department. Over time, I was given my own consultations to help ease the workload of the physicians. I saw hundreds of women and kept wondering: where do all these symptoms come from? We can’t keep prescribing the pill as a “solution” for everyone.
With my background in health sciences, I started reading studies and eventually discovered the field of clinical psychoneuroimmunology (cPNI), a science and philosophy that explores how all systems are interconnected: the immune system, the brain, the organs, and the environment. It offers a framework to understand chronic symptoms by mapping out someone’s complete “disease film”.
How did you start your own practice?
I started my own practice and began sharing my perspective on health and disease with the physicians at the clinic. That was challenging sometimes, as it differs from the conventional medical view. Over time, however, the doctors began referring more patients to me, and a really positive collaboration developed.
A big life lesson for me has been: have patience! I think we’ve become so used to instant gratification, having everything within a fraction of a second. But building your own practice takes a lot of patience and trust in the process.
Was it scary to start your own business?
I didn’t find entrepreneurship particularly scary, it was more a healthy tension and sense of excitement. Mostly because I had no idea what to expect. In a way, that uncertainty actually helped me to just get started. I finally took the leap after someone said to me, “Just start, Eske.” Sometimes it really is that simple!
Who do you work with?
The majority of my clients are women between 20 and 40 with chronic health issues, many of them gynecological, as several gynecologists refer patients to me. But overall, my client base is quite diverse, ranging from skin and gut problems to mental health concerns.
What advice would you give to others starting out?
Jump before you’re ready! Of course, it helps to have a solid foundation, the right education, a sense of direction, and a basic plan. But I don’t think we’re ever truly “ready” in our minds to start our own practice, there’s always a reason to wait. Start small, work with simple cases, build your confidence, and trust that you’ll learn and grow the most along the way.
How did you find Stories?
I was looking for my own practice space. I used to see clients in a medical center, but that setting felt a bit too clinical for the nature of my consultations. I found Stories through Google!
Why did you choose Stories?
I viewed several locations, but I ultimately felt that Stories had just the right atmosphere, a good balance of warmth and professionalism. I also loved that there are many other healthcare professionals working there, so you can exchange ideas, collaborate, or simply have a nice chat in the co-working space. It really feels like having colleagues, instead of sitting alone in an attic room!
Eske Ruijters, MSc Health Science
Specialized in gynecology, lifestyle medicine & psychoneuroimmunology
