Sexual Wellbeing features in new Ministry for Women video

The video, filmed in Sexual Wellbeing Aotearoa’s Wellington clinic features Dr Dee Sills, a specialist in sexual and reproductive health, discussing why it’s important women prioritise their own health.

Dee explains that women are an important part of our whānau and we need to make them a priority. It’s not selfish looking after yourself – it’s important to get things seen to early on, so they don’t become a bigger issue in the future.

She also shares some tips for how to get the most out of your appointment:

• If you’re uncomfortable or embarrassed talking about things like periods, contraception, sexual health, mental health, pelvic pain, let your healthcare professional know

• It can help to write down your symptoms, concerns, and questions before your appointment

• It’s useful to bring someone along to your appointment

• If you feel like something isn’t being addressed, raise that with your healthcare provider

• It’s a good idea to summarise the plan for next steps at the end of the appointment

This video is part of a wider project developed by Ministry for Women project in partnership with Health New Zealand. The project includes an online Women’s Health Hub, a resource to help prepare for health appointments, and videos with healthcare providers discussing women's health across life stages.

Visit the women's health hub

Use the Women’s Health Hub to find

• Information organised by life stages

• Searchable health topics and resources on common health issues

• Educational videos

• Guidance to help women prepare for appointments

• Conversations with healthcare providers