Women’s health coming to a screen near you

PapScreen Victoria has launched a service that is a first of its kind for Victorian women.

Through the new website www.papscreen.org, on-line nurse counsellors can answer questions about sensitive issues such as Pap tests, abnormal Pap test results and cervical cancer.

The Ask an Expert section of the website gives women an opportunity to ask questions relating to cervical screening in the privacy of their own home.

Specially trained nurse counsellors, from the Anti-Cancer Council of Victoria, will respond to women’s health concerns by returning a personal and confidential email.

The www.papscreen.org is a resource packed with the latest information about Pap tests, cervical cancer and women’s health.

The site is easy to use, informative and creatively designed to encourage women to have regular Pap tests in an effort to prevent cervical cancer.

‘Every woman who has ever had sex should have a Pap test every two years but many are not sure why or what it means if their Pap test is abnormal,’ said PapScreen Victoria Manager, Julie Hassard

‘The information provided dispels the myths, educates women about their body and explains their choices.

‘The style of www.papscreen.org is very different from other health-related websites.

‘While cervical screening is a serious issue, this website is designed to be colourful, imaginative and easy to use… it celebrates women of all ages and eras,’ said Ms Hassard.

The website is designed to reinforce the valuable personal advice given to women by their GP, gynaecologist or Women’s Health Nurse.

It is a resource women can turn to for extra background information, help with terminology, lists of questions to assist them in medical consultations and to explain common concerns.

• Those without access to the internet can contact the Cancer Helpline on 13 11 20 during business hours. For cancer information and support on cancer issues in other languages contact 9209 0160.