Insights into women’s pain revealed

A LANDMARK inquiry into women’s pain has revealed the significant impact endometriosis, pelvic pain and migraines are having on the lives of Victorian women and girls.

More than 13,000 women, girls, carers, families and healthcare workers participated in the Victorian Government Women’s Pain survey over the past few months.

Women and girls shared their experiences of sexism, misogyny, dismissal and ignorance when seeking care for their pain.

Many cases highlighted how much delayed diagnosis, the high cost of care and impact of pain have had opn their quality of life, relationships and careers.

Nurses made up the majority of healthcare workers to participate, observing the lack of knowledge from clinicians about women’s health.

Just shy of 40 per cent of women who participated were from regional and rural Victoria. The group’s insights highlighted the importance of being able to access care close to home.

Member for Bellarine Alison Marchant thanked women and girls for sharing their stories and recommendations.

“Women and girls, in Bellarine and all over our state have shared their stories and experiences to this landmark inquiry. Thank you so much to everyone who took part to help make a difference.

“This inquiry is part of the Allan Labor Government $153.9 million women’s health package to deliver the care women and girls in the Bellarine, and across Victoria, deserve.”

Minister for Health Mary-Anne Thomas said the survey results would help improve women’s healthcare across the state.

“These survey results are an important step towards building a new system that is informed by the voices of women, girls, families, carers, the healthcare clinical workforce and researchers.

“Our new mobile women’s health clinic will help us bring new services directly to women in regional Victoria, offering a safe and inclusive space for care.”