Department of Health

Women's Sexual and Reproductive Health Hubs to offer green whistle pain relief for IUD procedures

09/11/25
A nurse consults with a patient. She is holding a green whistle pain relief.

The Inquiry into Women's Pain found that intrauterine device (IUD) procedures often cause serious pain for many women and girls.

In response, Victoria’s network of 20 Women's Sexual and Reproductive Health (SRH) HubsExternal Link will soon offer the green whistle (Penthrox) as a pain relief option for IUD procedures.

IUDs are small contraceptive devices that are inserted into the uterus (womb) to prevent pregnancy. They are among the most effective methods of contraception and can stay in place for 5 to 10 years, depending on the type.

Women and girls responding the the Inquiry into Women’s Pain shared experiences of inadequate pain relief during health procedures such as IUD insertions. One Inquiry into Women’s Pain survey respondent shared the following:

“I experienced significant pain during the IUD insertion process. In this procedure, I was instructed to take Ibuprofen but was offered no further pain relief despite having a difficult and prolonged insertion experience due to the size of my cervix. I strongly support the use of the green whistle for people undertaking this procedure.”

This initiative aims to provide better pain management options to make these procedures more comfortable and accessible.

To support the rollout, expanded clinical best practice guidance will be provided to the Women's Sexual and Reproductive Health Hubs.

What is the green whistle?

The green whistle (Penthrox) is a handheld, self-administered inhaler containing the pain-relieving drug methoxyflurane, marketed as Penthrox. It is designed to be self-administered by the patient, but always under the guidance and supervision of a healthcare professional.

It is a fast-acting pain relief option that is commonly used by paramedics, sports clubs, surf lifesavers and other healthcare professionals.

Piloted at Peninsula Health

The Peninsula Women's Sexual and Reproductive Health Hub, operated by Peninsula Health, has been using the green whistle for IUD procedures as part of a pilot program for the past few years. It has been successfully implemented, providing valuable insights and demonstrating its potential to improve patient comfort and care.

  • 10 November 2025
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Read more about the Women's Sexual and Reproductive Health HubsExternal Link on the Better Health Channel.

Reviewed 10 November 2025

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