General News
23 August, 2024
Women’s health spotlight
In celebration of the upcoming Women’s Health Week, Maryborough District Health Service (MDHS) is inviting local women to take charge of their health.
The national campaign, which runs in the first week of September, will be marked by MDHS through a special event on September 2.
The Well Women’s Drop-in will be held from 10 am to 12 noon at The Nest in Maryborough, offering a morning of empowerment, connection, and education.
This year’s Women’s Health Week theme ‘Your Voice. Your Choice’ highlights the power of women’s choice and voice in health decisions.
It aims to lift the lid on shame and amplify the voices of women who feel unheard.
MDHS is joining this movement, to provide women with the tips, tools, and confidence to talk to their doctors, workplaces, and families about their health concerns.
“We encourage women to take this opportunity to prioritise their health,” MDHS health promotion officer Fabiana Vasconelos Porto said.
“Health decisions can be challenging, but with the right support and information, every woman can make the choice that’s best for her.
“We’re encouraging to sign up to the campaign or take time out to come to our special event to do something positive for their health and wellbeing.”
The event will feature giveaways, light catering and the chance to connect with healthcare professionals from MDHS.
Attendees will learn more about the various health services available to women to take charge of their health, including the Well Women’s Clinic, Maryborough BreastScreen, and the newly established Sexual and Reproductive Health Advice clinic.
The event will also provide information on critical health topics such as women’s health checks, cervical cancer screening, contraception and pregnancy choices, breast feeding and sexual health services.
In addition to Community Health Nurses, Lactation Consultants and an Endorsed Midwife, MDHS Aboriginal Hospital Liaison Officers will be available to help First Nations women find out more about health and support services.
It’s a chance to find out more about The Beautiful Shawl project which is coming to Maryborough in October.
The project is a collaboration between BreastScreen Victoria and the Victorian Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation (VACCHO) that provides a culturally safe and responsive alternative to traditional screening for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women.
“We are proud to support MDHS in encouraging women to take charge of their health,” mayor Liesbeth Long said.
“Join us on September 2 at The Nest to ‘raise your voice’, make informed health choices and connect with your local community.
“Together, we can break down barriers and ensure that every woman’s health and wellbeing is prioritised.”
No RSVPs are required, people can simply drop-in.
For more information, call 5461 0333 or visit mdhs.vic.gov.au.