Period Problems
There are a variety of problems that can occur with the menstrual cycle. Some of the common problems are covered briefly below but it is best to discuss any specific period problems with your local doctor or Family Planning clinic.
Menstrual Cycle (Periods)
Menstruation (or a period) is when a woman bleeds from her vagina for a number of days. For most women, this happens every 28 days or so. Menstruation is one part of the menstrual cycle. The menstrual cycle involves changes in a woman’s body that happen when an egg develops and the body prepares for a possible pregnancy.
Enhancing use of emergency contraceptive pills: A systematic review of women’s attitudes, beliefs, knowledge, and experiences in Australia
Reference
Mooney-Somers J, Lau A, Bateson D, Richters J, Stewart M, Black K, Nothnagle M, 2018, Enhancing use of emergency contraceptive pills: A systematic review of women’s attitudes, beliefs, knowledge, and experiences in Australia, Health Care Women Int., Online doi: 10.1080/07399332.2018.1526286Cervical Screening Renewal – Clinician Attitudes and Practices following Implementation in NSW
Research status
In progress
Overview of Study
Since the renewal of the National Cervical Screening Program in December 2017 no formal evaluation has been undertaken of attitudes or practices of cervical screening clinicians following implementation.
In order for the renewed program to be a success, it will be important for clinicians to adopt the changes and incorporate the updated guidelines into their practice.
Insertion of intrauterine devices by registered nurses: exploring the impact on current clinical practice in sexual and reproductive health within the Family Planning NSW setting.
Research status
Completed
Overview of Study
Intrauterine Devices (IUDs) are very effective in preventing pregnancy but they require a health professional trained in IUD insertion to carry out the insertion procedure. Intrauterine devices are most commonly inserted by physicians in Australia. However, registered nurses (RNs) and nurse practitioners in other countries have increasingly been inserting IUDs, which reduces the need for physician availability to provide this service.
Understanding the health needs of men and women in the midlife period
Research status
Completed
Overview of Study
A secondary data analysis was undertaken of the 45 and Up Study data to investigate 1) the prescribing practices of Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT) among men, and 2) the prevalence of urinary leakage among women. The 45 and Up Study is an ongoing cohort study of healthy ageing in New South Wales, Australia, conducted by the Sax Institute. Further information about the study is described here: https://www.saxinstitute.org.au/our-work/45-up-study/.
Optimising cervical cancer prevention amongst Aboriginal women in rural and remote New South Wales: A pilot study
Research status
Completed
Overview of Study
Family Planning NSW, with Walgett Aboriginal Medical Service, is implementing a pilot study which aims to address the relatively high cervical cancer incidence and mortality amongst Aboriginal women, through utilising a combined screening approach with same-day treatment (if indicated and requested). A ‘same-day’ approach may benefit women who may otherwise be lost to follow up.
An evaluation is being undertaken by the University of Newcastle to explore the acceptability of this approach for Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal women and the relevant health workforce.
Training midwives in the insertion of the contraceptive implant to increase uptake in the immediate postpartum period: a feasibility pilot study
Research status
In progress
Overview of Study
Australia has a relatively high rate of unintended pregnancy. Women may be particularly susceptible to unintended pregnancies in the 12 months after giving birth, partially due to difficulty accessing contraception. It is therefore essential that there be minimal barriers to accessing effective contraception in the postpartum period, including long-acting reversible contraceptives (LARC). LARC methods (including the implant and intrauterine devices) are the most effective at preventing unintended pregnancies.
Cost benefit analysis of increasing the uptake of LARC in Australia
Research status
Completed
Overview of Study
Long-acting reversible contraceptives (LARCs) are highly effective in preventing pregnancy; however, uptake remains relatively low in Australia.
A cost-benefit analysis was undertaken to assess the impact of two scenarios for Australian women (over five years), with economic modelling based on the latest published contraception rates and discontinuation rates.
Scenario 1: Switching from an oral contraceptive pill to a LARC.
Scenario 2: Initiating the use of a LARC for women not currently using any form of contraception.
