International Women’s Day – 8 March

International Women’s Day (8 March) is a global day celebrating the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. The day also marks a call to action for accelerating women’s equality.

Since the pandemic, women, in particular, have been consuming more alcohol putting themselves at risk of alcohol-related liver disease. So this International Women’s Day we are focusing on women’s health and wellbeing.

Many of the contributing factors to women’s increased alcohol consumption during the pandemic are entrenched in society – women shouldering the majority of domestic work, child care, and working in less-secure industries than men. It is extremely important that we support the women in our lives to prevent substance abuse and create a healthier future!

It is also important that we raise awareness of viral hepatitis in prenatal care as pregnant women who have chronic Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C are also at a higher risk of pregnancy complications. Some Hepatitis C medications may seriously harm unborn babies during pregnancy, so be sure to let your physician know if you are expecting. Finally, if you are pregnant and believe you are at risk of contracting Hepatitis B or C, it is vital that you get tested as soon as possible to minimalize the harm done to you and your baby.

LiverWELL is proud to have been a part of the Doherty-led study around perinatal care for women living with hepatitis B in Victoria. The study involved a community stream, data linkage and system mapping, and revealed there is more work to be done to improve outcomes for women living with hepatitis B in perinatal care in Victoria.

Read more about the Hepatitis B Prenatal Prevention Study 

Read more about International Women’s Day