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We are an Organisation Advocating for Safer, More Comfortable, Trauma Informed Gynaecological Procedures in Aotearoa New Zealand.

We are asking the New Zealand healthcare system to prioritise patient care when it comes to invasive gynaecological procedures such as IUD insertions, vaginal ultrasounds, hysteroscopys, LEEP procedures and biopsies. 

IUD placement pain and experiences of trauma can differ from person to person, some reporting extreme pain, while others feel little. The current guidelines around pain management for IUD insertions and other potentially painful, invasive gynaecological procedures are not comprehensive enough nor do they adequately protect patients. Other painful non-invasive and non gynaecological procedures use Midazolam, Penthrox, or Fentanyl which can be used to reduce anxiety, pain and discomfort and make medical procedures more comfortable and safe. There is also no recommendation for anxiety or trauma informed care. This lack of care is resulting in serious mental and physical harm towards many patients who are not being offered adequate pain relief nor being adequately informed before, during or after their procedures. 

According to a 2022 study almost 50% of people getting an IUD inserted report intense pain, this number is even higher for people who have not given birth (almost 70%). People also report traumatic and painful experiences with vaginal ultrasounds, LEEP procedures, biopsies, and other invasive gynaecological procedures. 

Our goal is to have these procedures reassessed, thoroughly evaluated, and restructured, to prioritise patient comfort and safety. The procedure needs to be more than just clinically safe; it should be a humane experience for every patient. Reformation in practice and protocol should include better pain management options and tools, more sensitivity training for healthcare providers, and continued assessments to ensure high standards of care.

We ask that: 

• Practitioners use clear and concise language detailing exactly how the procedures are performed so that the patient can make an informed decision about their comfort and pain management options prior to, during and after the procedure.

• Practitioners use clear and concise language detailing the risks involved in the procedure and any and all costs involved (including the risk of severe pain and trauma). 

• Practitioners give clear information before the procedure on how to manage complications post care. This includes informing the patient that they may be denied assistance by certain medical providers due to New Zealand’s “conscientious objection” law.

• Practitioners offer a range of pain relief options to the patient before the procedure begins (including general anaesthetic/ sedative). 

• Practitioners offer the patient a back up plan or alternative option before they begin the procedure incase of failure or extreme pain.

• Practitioners inform patients that they may stop the procedure at any time for any reason with full support and counselling of the practitioner.

• Practitioners seek continuous informed consent throughout the procedure.

• Practitioners are suitably trained to assess the mental and physical wellbeing of the patient throughout and after the procedure and provide a trauma informed practice.

• National digital resources available so that people can have full access to information of exactly how the procedure is done. These resources should be recommended and available before the procedure so that patients have time to take in the information to make an informed decision. 

• An access pathway for support for mental injury related to invasive gynaecological procedures.

We are behind, and we are failing. It’s time for this to change.

Together, we can create a healthcare system that truly prioritises patient dignity and comfort. By implementing trauma-informed practices, offering comprehensive pain management options, and ensuring clear communication and consent, we can transform invasive gynaecological procedures into safe and supportive experiences. With these reforms, New Zealand has the opportunity to lead the way in compassionate, patient-centred care—because everyone deserves to feel informed, respected, and cared for during their healthcare journey.