Peninsula Health pioneers access to Penthrox, popularly known as the green whistle, making it the first public healthcare organisation in Australia to offer this pain relief option for procedures like IUD insertion.
Led by Dr. Nisha Khot, Peninsula Health Clinical Director of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, the initiative addresses the need for fairer pain management. All patients undergoing IUD procedures now have the choice of Penthrox.
While commonly seen in emergency settings and sporting events, Penthrox, an analgesic administered through inhalation, is revolutionising pain relief for medical procedures.
Despite being highly effective, IUDs (intra-uterine devices) have low uptake in Australia compared to global standards. Peninsula Health’s initiative aims to change this narrative.
This ground-breaking initiative garnered national attention, sparking discussions in media outlets and even at Parliament House. On January 22, Dr. Khot and Peninsula Health Chief Executive Felicity Topp engaged in dialogue with political figures like the Premier of Victoria the Hon. Jacinta Allan and The Minister for Health the Hon. Mary-Anne Thomas MP, highlighting women’s pain and Peninsula Health’s role in promoting equitable healthcare.