The Royal Women's Hospital

The Royal Women's Hospital The Royal Women's Hospital is Australia's leading specialist hospital dedicated to improving the health of women of all ages and newborn babies.
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Each year, we care for more than 200,000 women from 165 countries, who speak 60 different languages and follow 42 separate religious faiths. The Women’s is committed to a holistic philosophy of health and provides comprehensive services ranging from health promotion to clinical expertise and leadership in maternity services, gynaecology, cancer services and specialist care of newborn babies. We ar

e also a major teaching hospital and a medical research leader of world renown. For over 150 years, the Women’s has led the advocacy and advancement of women’s health care. Established in 1856 as 'The Melbourne Lying-in Hospital and Infirmary for Diseases of Women and Children', our hospital began as a place where ‘under-privileged women’ could give birth to their babies and receive medical attention and nursing. Today, our innovative social model of care recognises factors such as housing, income and stress affect women’s ability to care
for themselves and their families. The Women’s is a unique health service that has been shaped over time by women’s voices. We are an advocate for improvements in women’s health and well-being. In developing our services, we understand the importance of integrating the diverse, ever-changing needs, priorities, perspectives and experiences of our women.

This World Embryologist Day we celebrate the incredible work of scientists who help turn hope into possibility. At the W...
25/07/2025

This World Embryologist Day we celebrate the incredible work of scientists who help turn hope into possibility.

At the Women’s, our embryologists like Jodie and Mikayla are part of a dedicated team delivering Public Fertility Care, making treatment more accessible, equitable, and compassionate.

Jodie reflects on her career so far and shares how new technology for embryo selection is transforming IVF, helping make more precise decisions and improving outcomes. “Every embryo represents hope. We treat every patient with the same attention and respect we would want for our own families.”

Mikayla reflects on the emotional impact of the work, “Public Fertility Care means more people can access IVF, especially those who couldn’t before”.

Today, we honour the science, the heart, and the hope that embryologists bring to families across Victoria.

This National Pain Week, we're highlighting the compassionate, multidisciplinary team at the Women’s Chronic Pelvic Pain...
24/07/2025

This National Pain Week, we're highlighting the compassionate, multidisciplinary team at the Women’s Chronic Pelvic Pain Clinic.

Since 2008, our clinic has been supporting patients with complex pelvic pain. The team works closely to tailor treatment to each individual - addressing not just symptoms, but the needs of the person experiencing them. Because when you live with persistent pain, you deserve a dedicated team behind you.

Did you know? Many people with chronic pelvic pain have been told their pain isn't real, or that nothing more can be done. At the Women's, we believe persistent pain deserves thoughtful, evidence-based, and compassionate care.

Swipe to meet our self-proclaimed ‘pain nerds’ and learn how they approach pain from all angles.

Together, they're committed to improving outcomes for women living with chronic pelvic pain.

Want to learn more about our clinic or how to talk to your GP about referrals? Head to: thewomens.org.au/cpp

Note: GP referrals are required for treatment.

The Women’s is working hard to become a disability-friendly organisation. We want to make sure everyone gets fair health...
23/07/2025

The Women’s is working hard to become a disability-friendly organisation. We want to make sure everyone gets fair healthcare and feels supported at work.

About one in five Australians has a disability, so it’s important that we provide equal access and help people feel understood.

We’re proud to be a Sunflower Friendly organisation. Over 340 of our staff have been trained as Sunflower Supporters. They know how to give extra help to people with hidden disabilities.

You can find Sunflower lanyards and wristbands at our Welcome Centre. These show that we care about people’s different needs.

Our Disability Liaison Officer, Vera Ciavarella, helps create care plans that suit each person. These plans can support different ways of communicating, help with sensory needs, and include advocacy from Vera.

We also use tools like the Disability Identifier in the Health Hub app and work with top health organisations to give care that fits each person. Our Chief eXperience Officer, Sherri Huckstep, leads our Disability Action Plan, which helps us improve access, research, and partnerships.

Together, we’re building a more inclusive and respectful place at The Women’s. You can learn more about our disability support and read our Disability Action Plan 2022–2025 on our website.

We’re thrilled and incredibly proud to announce that Dan from the Block will be appearing on this week's episode of Tipp...
22/07/2025

We’re thrilled and incredibly proud to announce that Dan from the Block will be appearing on this week's episode of Tipping Point with a mission that’s close to his heart. 💫

In memory of his baby girl Billie, Dan is participating in this special episode to raise funds for the Women’s NICU through Billie’s Besties - a fundraiser dedicated to offering life-saving support and resources to newborns and families in need. 💕

The Women’s NICU plays a critical role in providing expert care to some of the most vulnerable little ones. Every donation made will help us continue our vital work, ensuring that each newborn receives the compassionate and specialised care they deserve.💖

Dan’s participation is not just about winning; it's about honouring the precious life of his daughter and creating a legacy of hope and support for others facing similar challenges.

Tune in to Channel 9 at 7.30pm tomorrow night (Wednesday 23 July) and join us in cheering for Dan and supporting this incredible cause.

To donate or learn more about Billie’s Besties, please visit: https://billies-besties.raiselysite.com/

The incredible team at Maternity Services Education Program (MSEP) is thrilled to have facilitated a specialised trainin...
21/07/2025

The incredible team at Maternity Services Education Program (MSEP) is thrilled to have facilitated a specialised training day dedicated to Victorian paramedics.

Hosted by the MSEP team at the Women’s, this comprehensive workshop aims to equip Victorian paramedics with the vital skills needed to manage unexpected maternity emergencies with confidence and care.

With a blend of didactic learning and hands-on workstations, participants gain valuable insights into maternity care, ultimately enhancing their ability to provide exceptional support to women and babies during unexpected emergencies.

MSEP has successfully conducted these workshops across metro and rural areas of the state for the past 18 months, with each session being fully subscribed and enthusiastically received.

Our commitment to empowering paramedics with the necessary skills continues to drive us forward in delivering these pivotal educational experiences.

If you're a paramedic keen to enhance your emergency care skills, don't miss an opportunity to learn from the best in the field.

Sign up for our next metro paramedic program on Wednesday 10th of December: https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/msep-emergency-birth-program-for-paramedics-melbourne-tickets-1451247663829?aff=oddtdtcreator

It’s National Diabetes Week - and there are new guidelines for diagnosing gestational diabetes.These national changes ai...
17/07/2025

It’s National Diabetes Week - and there are new guidelines for diagnosing gestational diabetes.

These national changes aim to better support women and babies during pregnancy; and our very own dietitian Julia Zinga helped shape them. Julia helped develop these updated recommendations, released by the Australasian Diabetes in Pregnancy Society (ADIPS) last month. Julia contributed in her role as board member of ADIPS.

The new guidelines are now being rolled out across Australia. This includes our hospital, the Women’s, and involves other antenatal healthcare settings like GPs and pathology providers. This helps ensure test results are interpreted consistently, even when they come from external labs.

👉 Learn more: http://bit.ly/4nsH63R

Birth trauma is real, personal, and often invisible. It affects women emotionally, physically, and psychologically, as w...
15/07/2025

Birth trauma is real, personal, and often invisible. It affects women emotionally, physically, and psychologically, as well as their families and support network. This experience is complex, and the Women’s is working to addressit with empathy and care. 🤍🌼

A/Prof. Stefan Kane says, “Trauma cannot be judged by clinical outcomes. It’s personal and shaped by individual views and situations. At the Women’s, we aim to listen, support, and empower women. We offer trauma-informed care to help families heal and feel safe again.”

Our Birth Reflections Service team, with midwives like Cath Jamieson, Kath Cruickshanks, Lyn Geary, and Denise Jenkins, offers vital support to women and their partners who have had traumatic births. They create a compassionate space for families to share their stories, helping them process and regain their sense of control. 🌺

Insights from Our Team:
Birth trauma often arises from a loss of autonomy and poor communication. Respectful updates and involvement in decisions can make a big difference.
It is vital that women’s voices guide our understanding and support of their experiences.

Melissa’s Story:
Melissa, a first-time mum, faced a tough birth but found comfort and change through our Birth Reflections Service. Her story highlights the importance of support in overcoming trauma.

Let’s honour Birth Trauma Awareness Week by building a community of understanding and support. Together, we can ensure all women feel heard, respected, and cared for during their birthing journeys. 💜

Congratulations to all recipients of the Women’s Health Research Catalyst Grants. This $1.5M investment will help close...
15/07/2025

Congratulations to all recipients of the Women’s Health Research Catalyst Grants.

This $1.5M investment will help close the gender gap in medical research.

For too long, conditions affecting females differently or disproportionately have been left out of research. This has led to gaps in care and understanding. This funding will change that.

We’re especially proud of Prof Helena Frawley and Dr Karin Jones. Together with Dr Marlena Klaic, they secured funding for their important work on multidisciplinary pain management. 👏

This is what progress looks like.

On the 50th anniversary of NAIDOC week, the Women’s proudly celebrates the history, culture, and achievements of Aborigi...
08/07/2025

On the 50th anniversary of NAIDOC week, the Women’s proudly celebrates the history, culture, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

The 2025 theme, ‘The Next Generation: Strength, Vision & Legacy’, invites us to honour the generations who have led the way and to support those rising to lead next.

As part of the celebrations, we’re proud to launch our new volunteer T-shirts, featuring artwork by artist Caitlyn Davies-Plummer. Her piece, Legacy, honours the knowledge passed down from Elders, and the strength of those now leading the way.

NAIDOC Week is a celebration of the strength, resilience, and brilliance of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. As we reflect on the past, we also look to the future. Let us continue to walk forward together with deep listening, curiosity, and a shared commitment to truth and justice for the generations still to come.

https://www.yarn.com.au/pages/artist-caitlyn-davies-plummer

Could there be a hidden link between endometriosis and ectopic pregnancy?New research from the Women’s suggests it’s a q...
08/07/2025

Could there be a hidden link between endometriosis and ectopic
pregnancy?

New research from the Women’s suggests it’s a question worth asking.

In a study of 65 women who had surgery for an ectopic pregnancy, over
half had endometriosis. Most of them were unaware of it.

The endo was usually mild. However, researchers think the inflammation it
causes can impact the fallopian tubes. This may increase the risk of ectopic
pregnancy.

The findings suggest that doctors should include endometriosis checks
during surgeries for ectopic pregnancy.
More research is still needed, but early diagnosis can help people
understand their fertility. This knowledge allows for better decisions about
future pregnancies.

Learn more about the findings: https://www.thewomens.org.au/news/is-there-a-link-between-endometriosis-and-ectopic-pregnancy


in Research

Bright books, stacking rings and shape sorters are now being handed out at the Women’s – bringing joy to some of the hos...
30/06/2025

Bright books, stacking rings and shape sorters are now being handed out at the Women’s – bringing joy to some of the hospital’s most vulnerable babies.

The toy bundles support families at the First Thousand Days Clinic. This service helps babies who were exposed to drugs or alcohol before birth.

Each bundle suits the child's age to help develop skills such as movement, communication, and problem-solving.

The toys provide families with easy, practical tools to support their baby's development during an important time for brain growth.

Learn more about the initiative here: http://bit.ly/4l7qOM5

This week, we welcomed more than 50 people to a face-to-face event at the Women’s, connecting directly with those curiou...
27/06/2025

This week, we welcomed more than 50 people to a face-to-face event at the Women’s, connecting directly with those curious about or considering Public Fertility Care.
Our expert panel answered questions, busted myths, and built real connections with people considering the service. These events matter. They bring clarity and confidence, because facts beat fear, every time.

Misinformation can be overwhelming, and hosting in-person events helps bridge that gap by replacing uncertainty with understanding and connection.

Key information about Public Fertility Care:
💜 You have the right to access free fertility care - speak to your GP about a referral
💜 Low wait time for a first appointment
💜 Every patient’s care is individual and treated that way.

Thanks to everyone who came, asked brave questions, and showed up for their future. And to our Reproductive Services team, you’re the force behind the care.

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Each year, we care for more than 80,000 Victorian women who come from 165 countries, speak 60 different languages and follow 42 separate religious faiths. The Women’s is committed to a holistic philosophy of health and provides comprehensive services ranging from health promotion to clinical expertise and leadership in maternity services, gynaecology, cancer services and specialist care of newborn babies. We are also a major teaching hospital and a medical research leader of world renown. For over 150 years, the Women’s has led the advocacy and advancement of women’s health care. Established in 1856 as 'The Melbourne Lying-in Hospital and Infirmary for Diseases of Women and Children', our hospital began as a place where ‘under-privileged women’ could give birth to their babies and receive medical attention and nursing. Today, our innovative social model of care recognises factors such as housing, income and stress affect women’s ability to care for themselves and their families. The Women’s is a unique health service that has been shaped over time by women’s voices. We are an advocate for improvements in women’s health and well-being. In developing our services, we understand the importance of integrating the diverse, ever-changing needs, priorities, perspectives and experiences of our women.