Women’s health

We are dedicated to advancing women’s health through cutting-edge research and innovative solutions that address the unique health challenges women face. From reproductive health to chronic conditions, we focus on providing a deeper understanding of women’s specific needs and improving long-term health outcomes. Our research spans a wide range of topics, including women’s cancers and endometriosis, two critical areas that impact millions of women worldwide.

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Why our work is so important?

2,400

number of women diagnosed with endometrial cancer per year in Australia.
1600

number of women diagnosed with ovarian cancer per year in Australia.
15%

number of ovarian cancer cases that are inherited.
1,404

number of women who die from gynaecological cancers per year (27 per week).
57%

number of women with ovarian cancer who will not be living five years after diagnosis.

Cancers of women
Did you know that 1,404 women die each year—27 every week—from cancer of the ovary, uterus, or cervix? Endometrial cancer is the most common gynaecological cancer, diagnosed in approximately 2,400 Australian women annually. Over 1,600 women in Australia are diagnosed with ovarian cancer each year, making it the leading cause of gynaecologic cancer-related deaths in the country and accounting for 4.8% of all cancer deaths in women. The median age for ovarian cancer diagnosis is 60, though it can occur at any age. The average lifetime risk of developing ovarian cancer is about 1 in 75. While most cases are sporadic, around 15% are linked to inherited genetic mutations. Women with these inherited gene faults can face a significantly higher lifetime risk of up to 50%. Unfortunately, more than two-thirds of ovarian cancer cases are diagnosed at an advanced stage, when the disease has already spread and is considered incurable. Currently, there are no effective screening tests for ovarian cancer, and 57% of women diagnosed will not survive beyond five years.
Endometriosis
Endometriosis is a debilitating condition that affects approximately 1 in 10 women of reproductive age worldwide. It occurs when tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus, causing chronic pain, heavy menstrual bleeding, and, in many cases, infertility. The impact of endometriosis extends far beyond physical health – it can disrupt daily life, hinder career progression, and lead to mental health challenges such as depression and anxiety. Despite its widespread prevalence, endometriosis remains underdiagnosed, with many women suffering for years before receiving an accurate diagnosis. The condition not only affects women’s physical wellbeing but also places significant emotional and social strain on individuals and their families.

Cancers of women

Did you know that 1,404 women die each year—27 every week—from cancer of the ovary, uterus, or cervix? Endometrial cancer is the most common gynaecological cancer, diagnosed in approximately 2,400 Australian women annually. Over 1,600 women in Australia are diagnosed with ovarian cancer each year, making it the leading cause of gynaecologic cancer-related deaths in the country and accounting for 4.8% of all cancer deaths in women. The median age for ovarian cancer diagnosis is 60, though it can occur at any age. The average lifetime risk of developing ovarian cancer is about 1 in 75. While most cases are sporadic, around 15% are linked to inherited genetic mutations. Women with these inherited gene faults can face a significantly higher lifetime risk of up to 50%. Unfortunately, more than two-thirds of ovarian cancer cases are diagnosed at an advanced stage, when the disease has already spread and is considered incurable. Currently, there are no effective screening tests for ovarian cancer, and 57% of women diagnosed will not survive beyond five years.

Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a debilitating condition that affects approximately 1 in 10 women of reproductive age worldwide. It occurs when tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus, causing chronic pain, heavy menstrual bleeding, and, in many cases, infertility. The impact of endometriosis extends far beyond physical health – it can disrupt daily life, hinder career progression, and lead to mental health challenges such as depression and anxiety. Despite its widespread prevalence, endometriosis remains underdiagnosed, with many women suffering for years before receiving an accurate diagnosis. The condition not only affects women’s physical wellbeing but also places significant emotional and social strain on individuals and their families.

Women’s health projects

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What’s new at WIRF

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News 3 mins read

National honour for WIRF CEO Deb Portughes

WIRF is delighted to congratulate Chief Executive Officer Deb Portughes on being awarded a Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in recognition of her outstanding service to the community, including her contributions to wildlife conservation and the health of women, babies, and families.

News 5 mins read

From fear to hope: Emily’s journey through placenta accreta

Emily Lopes’ pregnancy with daughter Lillian was marked by the life‑threatening diagnosis of placenta accreta. Transferred to specialist care, Emily was supported by multidisciplinary teams across three hospitals, leading to a complex but successful birth. Her story highlights the critical importance of specialised care, research, and early detection in improving outcomes for mothers and babies.

News 2 mins read

Midwife-led birth debriefing shows promise for improving maternal mental health

In 2024, Dr Kate Buchanan received a WIRF Research Acceleration Award to evaluate a midwife‑led post‑birth debriefing tool to reduce perinatal depression and anxiety. Implemented at Fiona Stanley Hospital, the project improved trauma‑informed care, strengthened midwifery practice, informed policy, and supports statewide scale‑up.

News 2 mins read

WIRF launches Art of Birthing workshops to strengthen complex birth skills

WIRF’s new Art of Birthing workshops deliver world‑class, hands‑on maternity training for healthcare professionals managing complex childbirth. Building on the internationally recognised DVD program, these accredited workshops support midwives, obstetricians and multidisciplinary teams across Western Australia to build skills, confidence and improve outcomes for women and babies.