Women accessing reproductive healthcare in East Gippsland can now receive faster, more effective pain relief, with the green whistle (Penthrox) now available at the Bairnsdale-based Women’s Sexual and Reproductive Health Hub.
The inhaled pain relief option is being offered free of charge for intrauterine device (IUD) insertions and removals, providing a safe and fast-acting option aimed at improving comfort and dignity during procedures.
The rollout follows a commitment from the Victorian Government after the release of Victoria’s landmark Inquiry into Women’s Pain, which found many women experienced significant or severe pain during IUD procedures, often without adequate pain relief options.
Findings from the report also noted some patients were advised that discomfort would be minimal or manageable with paracetamol, despite experiencing far higher levels of pain.
The expansion of the green whistle across all 20 Women’s Sexual and Reproductive Health Hubs — including the Bairnsdale service — is intended to give women and girls greater control over their care and improve access to pain management options.
More than 11,000 women and girls accessed free or low-cost services through the hub network last year, with nearly 40 per cent holding concession cards and many based in regional areas such as East Gippsland.
The hubs provide a range of services including contraception, medical abortion care, referrals for surgical abortion, and testing, early diagnosis and treatment of sexually transmitted infections.
Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan said the changes reflected a need to better acknowledge and respond to women’s pain.
“So many women have experienced their pain symptoms being dismissed, and I’m one of them,” Ms Allan said.
“This is a small but important step – we believe you, we’ll support you, and it’s free.”
Health Minister Harriet Shing said the initiative would improve access and reduce barriers to care.
“Providing the green whistle through our Sexual and Reproductive Health Hubs will prevent and ease pain, and save women and girls time and money,” Ms Shing said.
