Bendigo Community Health Services will mark International Women’s Day with a step in the right direction for people experiencing the challenges of endometriosis and pelvic pain.

The day will feature Assistant Minister for Health and Aged Care the Hon Ged Kearney officially opening the federally-funded* BCHS Endometriosis and Pelvic Pain Clinic.

Assistant Minister Kearney will tour the Hargreaves Street clinic, meet staff and guests and talk about the impact of a condition that affects at least one in nine Australian women.

BCHS nurse Mary-Anne McCluskey said that impact was huge, yet often under-recognised.

“It’s hard to imagine the effect this has on a person’s sense of self, and their mental health,” she said.

“We hope the clinic will provide a safe space for people to feel heard and well supported, giving them back a sense of control over their bodies.”

Mary-Anne joins a multi-disciplinary team at the clinic, which includes physiotherapist Shirein Henry, psychologist Mary Sandilands and doctor Karishma Kaur.

Dr Kaur said as members of the region’s Sexual and Reproduction Health Hub, every day they hear stories of how people have expressed concerns about their pain only to be told they must to learn to live with it.

“Our message is, you do not need to learn to live with it. If it affects you, come and see us and we will help you,” she said.

“Visiting our clinic offers several advantages to seeing a general practitioner for endometriosis and pelvic pain care.

“Our clinic provides specialised expertise and comprehensive care tailored to managing these conditions, including advanced hormonal treatment options that may not be readily available in a primary care setting.

“Additionally, we offer emotional support and guidance to help navigate the challenges associated with endometriosis and pelvic pain.”

Acceptance into the clinic is via referral from a GP. Anyone wishing to attend should speak to their doctor about accessing the service, or for more information see the clinic webpage.

 *BCHS has received more than $700,000 over four years to operate the clinic, as part of the Federal Government’s $58.3 million package for endometriosis and pelvic pain health care.