A health service has been described as 'wonderful' by women who say it has helped transform their daily lives.
The Women’s Health Psychology Service, piloted by Hywel Dda University Health Board (UHB), was launched in 2023 and continues to operate in Tywi/Taf and North Ceredigion.
It provides psychological support for women experiencing distress linked to pelvic health conditions such as endometriosis, chronic pelvic pain, and the effects of menopause.
Dr Bethan Lloyd, head of clinical health psychology at Hywel Dda UHB, said: "Every day, we support women whose lives are profoundly affected by pelvic health problems, not only in terms of physical symptoms, but also in their mental health, relationships, and overall quality of life.
"These challenges often extend beyond the individual, impacting families and communities.
"Through specialist, individually tailored psychological care, we help women navigate the emotional and psychological effects of gynaecological pain, heavy bleeding, fatigue, fertility issues, intimacy difficulties, and the cognitive and mood changes associated with menopause."
The service was developed in response to growing evidence that women with pelvic health conditions face high levels of anxiety, depression, and trauma—issues often overlooked in traditional healthcare settings.
Since its launch, more than 270 appointments have been delivered, most of them online to ensure accessibility.
The majority of women using the service are aged 30 to 60 and manage complex combinations of physical and psychological symptoms.
Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is the primary intervention used.
Group CBT sessions are also available to support women with gynaecological pain and menopause-related symptoms.
Dr Rachel Herrick, service lead at Hywel Dda UHB, said: "Our group programmes offer both therapeutic strategies and peer support, empowering women to manage symptoms and build resilience for the long term.
"Individual psychological therapy addresses depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, and loss using evidence-based approaches tailored to each person’s needs.
"The results of our pilot are extremely encouraging, showing reductions in anxiety and depression, and improvements in pain management, coping, functioning, and overall quality of life.
"Ultimately, our goal is to help women reclaim their lives, to live with meaning, confidence, improved mental health and a renewed sense of wellbeing."
Feedback from users has been positive.
One patient said: "These one-to-one sessions have helped me so much to deal with my own stress and trauma which had resulted in burnout and poor emotional health.
"I am now able to manage my hot flushes and fatigue so much better than previously.
"Thank you so much.
"A wonderful service."
Women registered with a GP in the North Ceredigion or Tywi/Taf clusters can self-refer to the service or be referred by a healthcare professional.
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