Ahead of National Women’s Health Week (September 1-5), CityNews speaks to experts who focus on promoting and helping women feel and look their best.

National Women’s Health Week is Australia’s largest national health campaign dedicated to the health and wellbeing of all women, girls and gender-diverse people. 

It has been a permanent fixture on the Australian health calendar since 2013. 

This year’s theme is “Say yes to you”, to encourage everyone to speak up, check in and prioritise their health and wellbeing.

Here CityNews speaks to experts who focus on promoting and helping women feel and look their best.

Culturally accessible services for women

Removing barriers that prevent Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women from accessing maternity care, Winnunga Nimmityjah provides a midwifery program that provides culturally safe, non-judgemental and flexible care, says CEO Julie Tongs. 

Covering topics from pregnancy and birthing to substance use, smoking during pregnancy, SIDS, breastfeeding and nutrition, Julie says the group also provides an opportunity for pregnant women to meet and talk about any concerns or issues. 

“The midwifery team offers antenatal and postnatal care, community at home support, baby health checks, breastfeeding support, immunisations, and a range of women’s health services,” she says. 

“Our midwives work closely with ACT hospitals, and assist in ensuring continuity of care between Winnunga Nimmityjah AHCS and hospital services.

“It is vitally important for high-risk clients to have access to Aboriginal-specific, culturally appropriate midwifery services, as many choose not to access mainstream services without support.”

Winnunga also provides groups for women of all ages to access support, education referral and advocacy services.

“Women attending the group have benefitted from a range of health and lifestyle education services including healthy eating, children’s nutrition, managing depression, physical activity, arts and crafts, and outings,” says Julie. 

Guest speakers are regularly invited to attend the sessions with group facilitators working closely with the midwifery program. 

Winnunga Nimmityjah Aboriginal Health and Community Services, 63 Boolimba Crescent, Narrabundah. Call 6284 6222 or visit winnunga.org.au

The doctor making a buzz in women’s health

Championing women’s health and wellbeing at her Queanbeyan practice, Queenbee Women’s Health, Dr Jeannie Ellis says her 30 years of experience in health as a primary care practitioner has given her valuable insight into the health gaps that need to be filled regarding women’s health. 

“I’m passionate about women feeling comfortable in a safe environment and having a really good health care service to address issues such as pregnancy, menopause and fertility,” she says. 

“Women have a specific set of challenges that the other 50 per cent of the population don’t have, and I think women need a safe space to be able to talk to other women.” 

Specialising in menstrual problems, contraceptive choices, PCOS and endometriosis, pelvic pain, miscarriage management, pregnancy choices, ultrasounds, fertility and preconception, antenatal care, menopausal concerns and issues, health checks, migraines and iron transfusions, Dr Ellis said Queenbee has been her dream for the past 10 years. 

“Being in the clinic is more than just going to get an illness fixed,” she says. 

“It’s about what we can work on together. It’s a journey to better health.” 

Queenbee Women’s Health. 69-71 Monaro Street, Queanbeyan. Open Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday from 9am to 5pm. Visit queenbeewomenshealth.com

Waking up to the importance of wellness

“As women, we often aren’t given the opportunity to embrace our emotions,” says Highlands Centre for Healing owner, Soo Woods. 

“We’re encouraged to brush them under the rug and get on with life, but it’s my job to help clients understand emotions in their entirety, even the ones that have got stuck along the way.”

At Highlands Centre for Healing, Soo specialises in emotional healing, holistic health and wellness, mindfulness in nature, natural and alternative healing modalities, community and connection as well as accommodation stays.

Located on 43 hectares of land within the Southern Highlands, Soo says a retreat can be anywhere from a half day, day or even multi-day experience. 

“We offer a sanctuary for clients to reconnect with themselves,” she says.

“Everyone needs to wake up to the importance of wellness.”

While premade retreats are available to attend, Soo also offers clients the ability to design their own retreat, starting with duration all the way to selecting activities and deciding on accommodation and catering. 

“Our holistic wellness approach offers wellbeing for your mind, body and soul and provides all natural support for nervous system regulation.”

Drawing from more than a decade of work in holistic healing, Soo says she’s seen a noticeable shift in people when they walk away from the property. 

“They say they feel different by the end of the day,” she says. 

“I’m passionate about helping people find their authentic self.”

Highlands Centre for Healing. 91C Shepherd Street, Bowral. Call 0430 154556 or visit highlandscentreforhealing.com.au

Accessible support for women living with diabetes

Occurring when the body cannot produce or make enough insulin, credentialed diabetes educator at the Diabetes Australia Telehealth Clinic, Karen Jameson, says diabetes can have significant effects on women’s health, both physically and hormonally. 

“It can influence reproductive health, pregnancy and the risk of certain complications like heart disease, nerve damage and mental health,” she says. 

According to Karen, normal hormonal changes in a woman’s monthly cycle can make managing blood glucose levels more complicated for women living with diabetes. 

“They also experience increased insulin resistance during the luteal phase, potentially requiring insulin adjustments” she says. 

“Every woman’s body, lifestyle and stage of life is different, so seeing a health professional for a management plan is a proactive step towards a healthier future.”

Diabetes Australia offers a range of non-judgmental support services including clinical services at the Diabetes Australia Clinic, as well as access to their free national membership program YOUnitited. 

“Uncontrolled diabetes is dangerous,” says Natalie Smith, general manager of Health Service Operations at Diabetes Australia NSW & ACT.

“You might be feeling okay, but blood with consistently high glucose levels will damage nerves and vessels which includes your eyes, heart, kidneys and nerves. 

“When you’re dealing with diabetes, it’s better to know and understand how to live well with the condition.”

Diabetes Australia. Tenant B, 19-23 Moore Street, Turner ACT. Call 1800 177 055 or visit diabetesaustralia.com.au

Family doctor with a passion for women’s health

Adhering to routine medical check ups and promptly consulting a doctor if unusual symptoms arise can aid in early detection and disease prevention/modification, says founder of Canberra Family Health Centre, Associate Professor Maryse Badawy.

“Women’s health needs change through different life stages and can be associated with differing and unique health considerations during each phase,” she says. 

A Fellow of the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners and of the Hong Kong Academy of Medicine in the Discipline of Family Medicine, Dr Badawy is also involved in the teaching, training and mentoring of medical students and graduates in Canberra. 

“I am passionate about women’s wellness and family health and focus on addressing the unique healthcare needs of women,” she says. 

A Member of the Australasian Menopause Society, Dr Badawy’s extensive experience covers various conditions relating to women’s health, including cancer screening and management options. 

“I’m committed to providing a patient-centred approach by taking the time to listen to my patients, understand their concerns and develop personalised treatment plans and care with empathy and respect,” she says. 

Dedicated to empowerment in knowledge and support, Dr Badawy says she strives to give women the power to lead healthy and fulfilling lives throughout all stages of womanhood, and participate in the decision-making for their care. 

The Canberra Family Health Centre, Peter Yorke Building, Suite 6, Level 3, 173 Strickland Crescent, Deakin. Call 5133 7112 or visit cfhc.com.au

Hydrotherapy relief arrives for southsiders

Arthritis ACT has welcomed a new hydrotherapy pool in Tuggeranong that opened on August 25. 

“Women carry the majority of the chronic disease burden, with inflammatory conditions and severe arthritis,” says CEO Rebecca Davey. 

“This is a really exciting opportunity for the southside community to start feeling relief from chronic pain.”

Run by Arthritis ACT staff, many of whom have lived experience of the conditions they support others with, Rebecca says it’s been a long time coming for those living in the south of Canberra to access hydrotherapy support. 

“We want to keep our services affordable and accessible to the public,” she says. 

According to Rebecca, health benefits of hydrotherapy aren’t just limited to what the pool can offer, with many participants using it as a way to socialise with others who are experiencing similar levels of difficulty in chronic pain.

“The social aspects are just as important as the pool benefits,” she says.

“Many people attending any of our classes have become close friends, bonding over shared experiences.

Previously running sessions at the University of Canberra, Rebecca says she is excited to see their services extended beyond the northside. 

“It’s a rewarding experience to see the difference Arthritis ACT’s services make in the day-to-day lives of those who require them,” she says. 

Arthritis ACT, 170 Haydon Drive, Bruce. Call 1800 011041, or visit arthritisact.org.au

Evening of community and magic for Bosom Buddies

Bosom Buddies ACT is marking its 30th year with an evening of community and magic at the 59 Cameron Ave Conference and Meeting Room (above The Mercure), Belconnen, 6pm-9pm on September 18. 

“Please join us for carnival-themed activities, fantastic prizes, gourmet catering and inspiring guest speakers,” says executive officer Carolyn Murphy. 

All funds raised will continue the support of those affected by breast cancer. Tickets are $66 and can be booked via 0406 376500 or at bosombuddies.org.au 

Bosom Buddies supports women diagnosed with breast cancer when they need it most, says Carolyn.

The organisation started 30 years ago when a group of women diagnosed with breast cancer came together to support each other. 

“What evolved is a grassroots independent charity, exclusively dedicated to offering free, hands-on peer and ongoing support to those affected by breast cancer and their loved ones,” she says. 

Canberra’s sole provider of breast cancer support services, Carolyn says it provides services for free due to generous donations and support. 

“Breast cancer doesn’t discriminate, it affects all genders and age groups,” she says. 

“Everyone will know someone who has been affected, and it impacts us all.”

Bosom Buddies provides “Buddy Bags” containing items to assist pre and post surgery, as well as information on available services to all patients before surgery.

Either one-on-one or peer support is available, with opportunities to catch up with others in group environments and shared services. 

“This support is ongoing and continues for as long as needed,” says Carolyn. 

Call 0406 376500 or visit bosombuddies.org.au

Supportive care for life after breast cancer 

For many women, life after breast cancer can bring new challenges, says Deakin Wellbeing House founder, Nim Osborne. 

“Lymphoedema occurs when lymph nodes that have been removed or treated with radiotherapy begin to swell,” she says. 

“It may appear months or years after treatment and, without support, can worsen.

“The good news is that early, gentle care can help women stay comfortable, active and confident.”

Nim provides evidence-informed therapy tailored to the individual stage of cancer that her clients are in, from diagnosis to long-term recovery. 

An accredited lymphoedema practitioner and ALA member with advanced training in oncology massage and complex physical therapy, she says every session is adapted for safety and comfort, including pressure, positioning and duration. 

“A typical plan may combine manual lymphatic drainage, graded movement, skin-care education and guidance on compression, along with practical tips for daily life,” she says. 

“Women often report relief from heaviness, tightness and discomfort, improved sleep and a greater sense of ease in their bodies.”

Nim urges women to book an assessment if there’s swelling in the arm or chest wall, jewellery suddenly feels too tight or a feeling of fullness occurs. 

“We’ll discuss your treatment history, assess risk and create a personalised plan that fits your goals,” she says. 

“If you’re navigating breast cancer treatment or recovery, and want supportive care that meets you where you are, I’m here to help.” 

Deakin Wellbeing House, Unit 12, 40 Corinna Street, Phillip. Call 0412 885804 or visit deakinwellbeinghouse.com.au

A trusted choice for non-invasive body sculpting

Family owned and locally operated, Total Body Contouring owner Christy Christensen says she is proud to be working with cutting-edge technology to help Canberrans feel like the best version of themselves. 

“We are Canberra’s trusted local choice for body contouring, offering expert care and results our clients love,” she says.

With years of collective experience within the organisation, Christy says they are constantly keeping up to date with new and revolutionary technology to create a pain-free experience. 

Currently offering a $300 fat freezing treatment using Cooltech technology, Christy says they can target up to 40 per cent of fat in the area within two to three months of use. 

“There’s no downtime required,” she says.

“It’s non-invasive and we provide free consultations prior to treatment.” 

Total Body Contouring is also the only Canberra organisation to have an emerald laser.

“The emerald laser is a non-invasive, FDA-cleared, fat-reduction treatment that uses low-level green laser technology to shrink fat cells without pain or downtime,” says Christy. 

“It is suitable for individuals with a BMI up to 40 and helps reduce body circumference safely and effectively,” says Christy. 

“With no bruising or swelling, it’s a gentle and convenient option for those seeking non-invasive body contouring.” 

Exclusive to Total Body Contouring, Christy says the technology benefits fat loss and enhances how clients feel about their body.

Total Body Contouring, Shop 3/22 Franklin Street, Griffith. Call 6239 7347 or visit totalbodycontouring.com.au