The Illawarra Women’s Health Centre is calling on NSW to improve access to pain relief for women undergoing IUD procedures, following Victoria’s statewide rollout of the green whistle and South Australia’s commitment to introduce the option through public health services.
The fast-acting pain relief option, known clinically as Penthrox, is now available free of charge for IUD insertions and removals at all 20 of Victoria’s Women’s Sexual and Reproductive Health Hubs, following recommendations from the state’s landmark Inquiry into Women’s Pain.
Meanwhile, South Australia has committed funding in its 2026-27 State Budget to introduce the pain relief option through public outpatient clinics and expand access through primary care.
Acting General Manager Tonina Harvey said the moves were practical responses to concerns raised by thousands of women about pain during IUD procedures and highlighted an opportunity for NSW to improve women’s healthcare.
“Victoria and South Australia have shown what is possible when women’s pain is taken seriously,” Ms Harvey said.
“Providing effective pain relief for IUD procedures is a simple, compassionate reform that recognises women’s comfort, dignity and right to informed healthcare.”
IUDs are among the most effective forms of long-acting reversible contraception and are used by thousands of women across Australia. However, many women report experiencing significant pain during insertion and removal procedures.
The Illawarra Women’s Health Centre, which provides free long-acting reversible contraception services, said the reforms and commitments in other states offered valuable lessons for NSW.
The Victorian Inquiry into Women’s Pain received responses from more than 13,000 women and gender-diverse people. It found women’s pain was frequently dismissed, under-treated or misdiagnosed..
The inquiry also found women undergoing IUD procedures were often told to expect only mild discomfort, only to experience severe pain without adequate pain relief options available.
Ms Harvey said the evidence gathered through the inquiry should not be ignored by other states.
“The findings provide a clear roadmap for improving women’s healthcare,” she said.
“Women deserve access to evidence-based pain management options, clear information about procedures and healthcare systems that listen when they say they are in pain.
“Victoria has taken an important step forward, and South Australia has committed to doing the same. NSW now has an opportunity to show similar leadership.”