Words by Amanda Gregson
I’ve spent a lot of time thinking about women’s health. How it’s often overlooked, misunderstood, or treated as a private problem we’re supposed to figure out alone. I’ve seen friends struggle to get the care they need, watched family members navigate confusing medical advice, and felt the isolation that comes when your experiences aren’t shared or understood.
It made me wonder: how can we, as a society, do better? How can we empower women’s health, reduce inequities, and create systems where support, knowledge, and care are accessible to everyone who needs them? These aren’t just abstract questions, they’re questions I feel personally invested in. And the good news is, there are ways forward. I’ve been exploring some of the approaches that are already making a difference and could continue to move the needle.
Support for Maternal Mental Health
Maternal mental health is a critical aspect of women’s health that deserves more attention. In Australia, organisations like PANDA (Perinatal Anxiety & Depression Australia) and the Gidget Foundation Australia offer comprehensive support for women experiencing perinatal anxiety, depression, and postnatal challenges. They provide helplines, online resources, and community support to help mothers navigate the emotional ups and downs of pregnancy and early motherhood.
Normalise Conversations About Menopause
Normalising conversations about menopause is crucial. The silence around this stage of life leaves so many women unprepared, anxious, or feeling like they’re failing in some way.
The good news is that change is underway. For example, the American Menopause Society is working hard behind the scenes to remove some of the mystery from the transition and give women the information they need when it occurs
In Australia, Menopause Alliance Australia provides evidence-based guidance and support, while in the UK, The Menopause Charity shares trusted information and real stories to help people make informed choices.
It’s encouraging to see organisations making knowledge accessible, and I hope it helps more women feel seen, supported, and ready to navigate this life stage with confidence.
Deal With Maternal Health Inequalities
Dealing with maternal health inequalities is also on the agenda for healthcare equity. I’ve been horrified (but sadly not surprised) by the statistics: Black women are over four times more likely to die during pregnancy and childbirth.
Already, multiple obstetrics are moving to solve this issue. But doctors aren’t the only ones acting. Charities like Black Mamas Matter Alliance are working quietly behind the scenes to ensure these crises don’t worsen, giving mothers the care and advocacy they deserve.
Build Community Care Networks
One of the main ways to prioritise women’s health is to build so-called “community care networks.” From my perspective, this is about creating spaces where women can connect locally, share their experiences, and support each other. Menopause, maternal health, mental health: these are not things we should face alone. The goal is to share resources and knowledge so that nobody feels isolated or disenfranchised.
This approach is especially important for health equity. Women from marginalised communities often face systemic barriers to care, and community networks can be a powerful way to bridge those gaps.
Breaking the Stigma Around Periods
Menstruation is a natural biological process, yet it remains a topic often shrouded in silence and shame. This stigma can lead to misinformation, discrimination, and a lack of access to essential menstrual products, particularly in underserved communities. Organisations like Share the Dignity and PERIOD. are at the forefront of challenging these taboos through education, advocacy, and the distribution of menstrual products. Their mission is to ensure that menstruation is recognised as a normal and dignified part of life.
Initiatives such as these are crucial in normalising conversations about menstruation, breaking down societal barriers, and promoting gender equality. By supporting and amplifying these efforts, we can contribute to a world where menstruation is no longer a source of stigma but a topic of open discussion and understanding.
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