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.
She added that more than 11,000 women and girls used the free or low-cost services across the network of hubs last year.
“So many women have experienced their pain symptoms being dismissed, and I’m one of them,” she said.
“This is a small but important step — we believe you, we’ll support you and it’s free.”
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.
“Primary Care Connect is proud to be one of 20 sites delivering a Women’s Sexual and Reproductive Health Hub,” he said.
“While we were only recently made aware of the announcement, we are currently exploring the options available to Primary Care Connect, including the governance and clinical considerations surrounding the introduction of any new pain relief options.
“While PCC hasn’t experienced a significant increase in women seeking this service, we know many women in our community rely on hospitals or their GP for support and would welcome any developments for pain management.”
Primary Care Connect’s Women’s Sexual and Reproductive Health Hub was established in 2022 to help address shortages in women’s healthcare services and reduce barriers to access by providing free support to women in the community.
The hub has further been strengthened in 2026 with the commencement of GP-led care through the hub, with Dr Ibby Munu now supporting nurse Aimee Bice to provide even more services.
Services available through the clinic include, contraception options, advice and support, cervical screening, IUD insertion/removal, STI testing and treatment, pregnancy testing, sexual and reproductive health education and referrals to specialist services and allied health supports.
