News

Green whistle for IUDs in Shepparton

By Kelly Lucas-Carmody

May 25, 2026

Primary Care Connect women’s health nurse Aimee Bice oversees the Women’s Sexual and Reproductive Health Hub.

Primary Care Connect in Shepparton and Bendigo Community Health Services are among 20 regional women’s sexual and reproductive health hubs to receive free access to the pain relief medication Penthrox, commonly known as the ‘green whistle’.

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The rollout was a promise made by the Victorian Government following the release of Victoria’s landmark Inquiry into Women’s Pain.

Penthrox is a safe, fast-acting and dignified pain management option that will now be available for free for intrauterine device insertions and removal.

An IUD insertion or removal refers to putting in or taking out an IUD, which is a small contraceptive device placed inside the uterus to prevent pregnancy.

The inquiry report highlighted the near-universal experience of significant or severe pain during IUD procedures.

For many women, the procedure took place without adequate pain relief options available and they were told they would only have minimal discomfort and some cramping manageable with paracetamol, only to experience severe pain.

Premier Jacinta Allan said rolling out the green whistle at all 20 hubs was just one way of giving women and girls control of their own care.

Primary Care Connect executive manager of health services Leigh Stanbrook said the organisation welcomed the Victorian Government’s announcement, which aligned with the findings and recommendations of the inquiry into women’s pain.