This survey is the first to explore bothersome periods (i.e. painful, irregular and/or heavy periods) in a randomly recruited, nationally representative sample. The results for 18- to 44-year-old respondents, broadly ‘women of reproductive age’, are the focus of this report.
Bothersome periods are a significant problem for Australian women during a life stage in which study and workforce participation are critical for establishing economic security across the lifespan.
Nearly four in five women aged 18 to 44 years experienced bothersome periods in the last five years, and three in four of those affected reported these bothersome periods had a substantial impact, i.e. made it hard for them to do daily activities. Bothersome periods had a substantial impact on work, study, exercise, mental and emotional health, and relationships with partners, family and friends.
This is a report from the 2023 National Women’s Health Survey conducted by Jean Hailes for Women’s Health with funding from the Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care.
© 2025 Jean Hailes Foundation. All rights reserved. This publication may not be reproduced in whole or in part by any means without written permission of the copyright owner. Contact: licensing@jeanhailes.org.au