Research themes and projects
at the Key Centre for Women's
Health in Society
Health services and technology
The KCWHS conducts a diverse range of research on health services for women and young people and the effect of technological interventions on women’s health. Research in these areas variously focuses on screening programs, governance, evaluation of practice in relation to evidence based guidelines, communications styles with socially disadvantaged sub-populations and culturally and linguistically diverse women; critical analysis of the ideas and policies that inform service delivery; client access, uptake, satisfaction and engagement with services; and service provider reflections on practice. KCWHS also conducts research in partnership with health and welfare services.
Mental health and wellbeing
Women experience the common mental disorders of depression and anxiety at two to three times the rates reported in men. Research at the KCWHS focuses on the social determinants of mental health and on the relationships between women's physical health and their psychological wellbeing. We aim to translate our research findings to improve mental health literacy among health care professionals and to reduce the stigma about mental health in the broader community.
Reproductive and sexual health
This research theme explores the social determinants and consequences of fertility and infertility; the impact of technologies on women's reproductive mental health; development and evaluation of health promotion programs for pregnancy and early parenthood; sexual and reproductive health of young people; cervical cancer, Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) and attitudes to HPV vaccine.
Social & economic inequalities in health
Our research focuses on how differences in the social and economic circumstances of individuals and communities are related to health differentials. Research conducted in this theme investigates the circumstances and processes that contribute to social and economic inequalities in health. Some of the characteristics that are of particular interest include social networks and social capital; behaviour and practices; and, the importance of geographic location.
Additional research projects