The Jean Hailes Foundation for Women’s Health has released its bi-annual magazine, featuring a range of topics relevant to the health and wellbeing of Australia’s five million women aged 35 years and over – a quarter of the country’s population.

Employing specialist endocrinologists (hormone specialists), gynaecologists, general practitioners, medical researchers, allied health professionals and health educators, the Foundation is  Australia’s pre-eminent women’s health organisation conducting medical research, education and clinical care. The Foundation offers independent advice and is not-for-profit, largely funded by the federal government and through philanthropy.

The lastest summer edition features:

At last: affordable mental health care

While cost may have stopped people accessing psychological services, a new Medicare rebate means that Australians wishing to see a psychologist can now receive help to pay for up to 12 sessions a year. Find out the details and more about depression from our psychologist Gillian Needleman.

The “D” word – are you destined for diabetes?

Diabetes seems to be everywhere at the moment, but this story offers some good news. Reseach director Professor Helena Teede explains that a diagnosis of pre-diabetes is a wake-up call that is an opportunity to fend off full-scale diabetes – one of the most debilitating, long-term illnesses already affecting many Australians.

Bioidentical hormones: what you really need to know

Many women ride an emotional roller-coaster trying to understand hormone treatments for menopausal symptoms. The rise of so-called ‘alternative’treatments – including bioidentical hormones - have further confused the issue. Learn the difference between approved hormone therapy and  bioidentical hormone therapy, and the risks and safety issues.

Definitive new book on menopause by Australian psychologist Dr Mandy Deeks

Foundation psychologist Dr Mandy Deeks has written a book about the social and psychological impact of menopause and midlife. While other books may paint a picture of ‘doom and gloom’ at this time in a woman’s life, Life Begins at Menopause? seeks out the challenges that women face, guides them through the realities and focuses on the things to look forward to. With a chapter devoted to explaining menopause for partners, this book is written with compassion, using anecdotes from real women.

To interview a Foundation expert – or to receive the magazine – please call Aleeza Zohar on (03) 9562 6771 or 0425 758 729.

Life Begins at Menoapuse?: A guide to the changes at midlife and menopause for women and their partners, RRP: $24.95 (and is available from Jean Hailes Foundation for Women's Health Online Shop).

Content updated January 29, 2007