Women's Health Resources

NZDF Women's Health and Readiness Handbook

Developed in response to the experiences and feedback of NZDF wāhine, Health and Readiness: A Guide for NZDF Wāhine Toa brings together practical, evidence-based information to support health, wellbeing, and readiness throughout military service.

Contents

• Women's Health in the NZDF – understanding the support, services, and resources available to wāhine, and the role of Command in supporting health, wellbeing, and readiness.
• Health Screening – staying up to date with occupational health requirements and national screening programmes to support long-term health and readiness.
• Sexual Health – understanding reproductive anatomy, sexual wellbeing, common health conditions, and when to seek support.
• Urinary and Pelvic Floor Health – maintaining bladder and pelvic floor health, recognising common problems, and knowing when to access care.
• Menstrual Health – understanding your cycle, managing periods in military environments, and exploring the relationship between menstrual health, training, and performance.
• Contraception – exploring contraceptive options, choosing a method that suits your needs, and understanding the effects on hormones, bleeding patterns, and fertility.
• Pregnancy and Becoming a Parent – navigating fertility, pregnancy, parenthood, and recovery while balancing the demands of military service.
• Perimenopause and Menopause – understanding hormonal changes, managing symptoms, and supporting health, wellbeing, and readiness through midlife and beyond.

Commanders and leaders will find dedicated guidance on supporting women's health in the workplace and creating environments that promote both wellbeing and operational effectiveness.

Colleagues, partners, and whānau are also encouraged to explore the handbook to build their understanding of women's health and support informed conversations at work and at home.

View and download your copy here. Printed copies are available from your local Defence Health Centre. 

Additional resources and references can be found here.

Women's Health Hub

Developed by the Ministry for Women and Health New Zealand, the online Women’s Health Hub provides information organised by life stage, searchable health topics, guidance on common health issues and resources to help women prepare for appointments with healthcare providers. It also features educational videos with healthcare providers discussing life stage health considerations.

Explore the Women’s Health Hub at: 

Health New Zealand | Te What Ora

Ministry for Women | Manatū Wāhine

Making the most of your health appointment

Your health is important. If something does not feel right, it is okay to ask for help. Here are some tips to make it easier to talk about your health with a doctor, nurse, or another healthcare provider.

Download the Ministry for Women resource below to record symptoms, questions, medicines you are taking, and appointment notes. 

Women's health apps

A range of trusted apps designed to support women’s health and wellbeing. Find tools to help you stay informed, track symptoms, and make confident health decisions.

Healthify | He Puna Waiora

Defence healthcare

Defence Health Centre (DHC). If you have any concerns book an appointment with your doctor at your nearest DHC. They will be able to do an examination and discuss any concerns and refer to a specialist if necessary. If you do receive a serious prognosis, the doctor will provide resources and support.

Gymnasium. If you need help to exercise more, or to lose weight to be healthier, consult your local Physical Training Instructor (PTI) and ask for advice on an appropriate exercise program.

Social Support. Sometimes the pressures of work and family and stress of everyday life can impact on our health. You may also be dealing with a frightening health prognosis. We strongly recommend that you reach out and talk to someone, our chaplains, the marae, our social workers and NZDF4U can all help.