Geelong forum to tackle women’s pain

IN A bid to end the stigma surrounding women’s pain, Geelong’s Epworth Hospital is hosting a Women’s Health Matters forum this month.

The event will cover topics important to women including endometriosis, pelvic pain and good gut health.

Gastroenterologist Dr Chris Hair and gynaecologist Dr Alex Bonner will speak to the topics, aiming to empower all women to speak up about their health with confidence.

Awareness and diagnosis of endometriosis in women is rising, but still takes an average of six to eight years to diagnose – something Dr Hair and Dr Bonner are hoping to change.

“No pain should be dismissed as ‘normal’ and no one knows their body better than you do,” Dr Hair said.

“This forum is about giving women the tools to know when to say something isn’t right.”

Endometriosis is a chronic condition leading to pelvic pain, bladder and gut problems, painful sex and infertility.

Dr Bonner encourages young women to seek help early.

“Treating symptoms early is the most effective [approach] and helps prevent long-term impact, so we particularly encourage women to seek help if they feel this is relevant to them,” she said.

“With increased awareness of endometriosis through the media in recent years, more women are realising their pain isn’t normal and are seeking help.”

The forum will also explore the connections between gut health and pelvic pain, something that is often overlooked.

Dr Hair said it is not uncommon for those who have bloating and gut pain to also be suffering from endometriosis but are yet to be diagnosed and have been living in pain for years.

“For a long time women felt like they didn’t have a voice when it came to their health, and the advocacy we are seeing now – whether it be online or just through friends talking openly – is a positive step forward for all women,” Dr Hair said.

Endometriosis support nurse Anna Price-Smith will MC the event.

She is passionate about educating and supporting people on their journey from diagnosis to a better quality of life with a holistic approach.

The forum will be held on November 12 at Epworth Geelong Auditorium from 5.30pm until 7pm.

Tickets to the event are free and are available from events.humanitix.com/women-s-health-matters-understanding-fertility-pain-and-wellness