Even though Australia has one of the best and most accessible medical systems in the world, it’s important to note that sometimes over the years it hasn’t been without fault.
One substantial area in which it was for decades less than ideal was women’s health. A combination of lack of focused funding, inadequate training and policy priority meant that conditions such as endometriosis, menopause and polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) didn’t always receive the attention they deserved.
Across Melbourne’s north and west there are these days, thankfully, plenty of GPs very well aware of the pain and discomfort caused by women’s health conditions. There are also specialist women’s health services available at Melton Health and Community Services and the Joan Kirner Women’s and Children’s centre at Sunshine Hospital.
Now, too, though, we have a whole new facility dedicated to the field. Funded by the Australian Government, there is a endometriosis and pelvic pain clinic in the west, one of 33 operating around the country.
Based at Werribee Medical and Dental Care, it provides expert, multidisciplinary services for endometriosis, PCOS, and other conditions. It also supports women experiencing symptoms of perimenopause and menopause.
And that’s important, because it means women can discuss these matters without the anxiety that sometimes may arise when talking about them with their regular GPs. It also means that for thousands of women and girls in the outer western suburbs they can find help and support much closer to home.
Endometriosis affects at least one in seven, often causing chronic pain and fertility issues. Many women can endure years waiting for a diagnosis, which may have a devastating impact on their daily lives.
Stories for other conditions are distressingly similar.
Now, though, things are looking up.
Patients don’t need a formal diagnosis of endometriosis or a referral from another doctor to visit the Werribee Endometriosis and Pelvic Pain Clinic (as it’s formally known).
The focus is firmly on early access to intervention and support, to make sure treatment and management is as easy as possible.
And if Werribee is too far away to reach easily, telehealth appointments are available.
Werribee Medical and Dental Centre is a fully bulk-billing clinic. It is located at 1-5 Station Place, Werribee, 3030.
Call (03) 8734 0333 or visit werribeemedicalcentre.com.au for operating hours and to book an appointment.
This article was first published in Star Weekly on 15 May 2026.
