This could be something small like connecting with family and friends or something that might have unintentionally been put on the back burner through the pandemic, like preventative screening or check-ups.
Women’s Health Week, which starts on September 6, runs all week, with a variety of activities planned nationally to mark the event.
Echuca Regional Health women’s health nurse Marg Fuller has been working with women in the community for 22 years, amid a career tenure of 34 years at ERH. She is planning to retire in November.
Ms Fuller said her role was about empowering women with education and information to make their own choices about their health and wellbeing.
“Women’s health services often bring in people who are under-screened and often older women, so you meet some really interesting people,” she said.
“Women would say “oh, I didn’t know that”. It’s not just the (cervical) screening; women’s health is really broad.”
ERH offers the cervical screening test, formerly known as a pap smear, breast health awareness, pregnancy testing and education, information on reproductive and sexual health issues, menopause, continence issues and fertility.
“Increasingly, there is a demand to support gender diversity, in particular for those that may be gender questioning or transgender,” ERH executive director of community services Cynthia Opie said.
“Moving forward therefore, we have decided to change the name of the service to ‘sexual health nurse’ to ensure safety for the LGBTIQA+ community. Particularly with the increased focus at ERH on gender equity and services for young people.
“While it is our aim to continue to engage people across the lifespan, we know that engaging people early in life, improves both physical and emotional wellbeing in the long term.”
Appointments are available by contacting the community services team on 5485 5801.
Reflecting on her years at ERH, Ms Fuller said it had been a privilege to meet women from all walks of life in the community and work with many “wonderful colleagues over the years”.
“With a background in midwifery, Marg has played a key role for both women and young people in the community through provision of direct care, health promotion and education in schools and community settings for many years – a legacy that will live well into the future,” Ms Opie said.
For more information visit womenshealthweek.com.au
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