Women’s health is an important specialised field of healthcare, addressing the unique needs of women and ensuring they receive tailored care throughout various stages of life. From reproductive medicine to mental health support, healthcare professionals specialising in women’s health are instrumental in ensuring better health outcomes for women, improving their quality of life.
Whether you're a healthcare professional looking to specialise, considering a career change into healthcare or a student planning your next step in your studies, there are a range of roles in this niche health field. Building a career in women’s health can provide the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on women’s lives and also offer a deeply rewarding and fulfilling career experience.
This article explores the diverse roles in women’s health, the benefits of working in this rewarding field and how you can get started in a women’s health career with postgraduate study.
The current landscape of women’s healthcare in Australia
Women’s healthcare in Australia has come a long way, but there is still a growing need for improvement. Research indicates that women face a significantly greater burden from certain disease groups compared to men. Some of these health conditions include reproductive and maternal conditions, iron-deficiency anaemia, dementia and various musculoskeletal conditions.
The National Women’s Health Advisory Council is a key advisory body to the Australian Government, dedicated to improving health outcomes for women and girls across the nation. It provides expert advice and recommendations on priority health issues and oversees the implementation of the National Women’s Health Strategy 2020–2030. This initiative is an important step toward improving health outcomes for women across the country, accounting for the vast differences in physical, emotional, socioeconomic and cultural backgrounds that influence women's health. It aims to identify women with the highest risk of poor health, reduce health inequalities and enhance the overall wellbeing of women and girls in Australia.
Healthcare professionals focusing on women’s health play an essential role in addressing these concerns by improving access to quality care, advocating for female-specific health services and contributing to research for more targeted interventions. As demand for specialised healthcare grows, so does the need for passionate and skilled healthcare providers in women’s health. This area of healthcare represents more than a career path, it’s an opportunity to positively change women's lives which has rippling effects on families, communities and benefits broader society as well.
12 careers in women’s health
Women’s health careers offer a unique opportunity to focus on the specific needs and challenges faced by women throughout their lives. Specialising in women’s health ensures that the care they receive is tailored to their biological and social realities and experiences.
Let’s explore some jobs in women’s health that offer a rewarding experience to healthcare professionals.
1. Midwife
Midwives are health professionals who provide pregnancy and postpartum care to expectant mothers. Midwives provide prenatal care, health monitoring for both mother and baby and assist during labour and childbirth. They also provide postnatal care to mothers and newborns, supporting their postpartum recovery and emotional and physical wellbeing.
The work of a midwife is rooted in building strong, trusting relationships, offering emotional support alongside medical expertise. Whether within hospitals, birthing centres or home settings, midwives work closely with women to create a safe and nurturing environment, advocating for their wellbeing and supporting their informed decision-making. Being a midwife is an incredibly rewarding career, as it involves supporting women through one of the most pivotal and life-changing transitions – bringing new life into the world.
Average midwife salary: $95,000 per year
2. Lactation consultant
Lactation consultants (LCs) play a vital role in supporting new mothers with breastfeeding. A lactation consultant must either be a qualified health professional, such as a nurse, midwife or dietitian; or have completed education on 14 health science subjects. In addition, they need to complete lactation-specific education, gain supervised clinical experience under an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) and pass a final examination. Upon completion of these studies and training, candidates will become qualified as certified lactation consultants. Lactation consultants can work in hospitals, child health centres or conduct home visits as part of their own private practice.
Lactation consultants provide guidance on proper latching techniques, helping address concerns such as low milk supply or mastitis and educating mothers on maintaining breastfeeding routines. These professionals tailor their advice to suit individual needs, while offering emotional encouragement during the postpartum period. They may also collaborate with other healthcare providers to deliver comprehensive care for mothers and their infants.
Being a lactation consultant is a deeply rewarding career in women’s health, as it provides the opportunity to support women during their intimate breastfeeding journey. Helping mothers overcome challenges, build confidence and establish a healthy bond with their babies brings immense professional satisfaction. The role allows consultants to have a meaningful impact on both the physical and emotional wellbeing of mothers and their children, fostering positive outcomes that can last a lifetime.
Average lactation consultant salary in Australia: $103,000 per year
3. Women’s health physiotherapist
Women’s health physiotherapists help improve the quality of life for women dealing with complex and often sensitive health issues. They focus on restoring strength, function and control to the pelvic floor muscles, which can be weakened due to factors like pregnancy, childbirth, ageing or other musculoskeletal pelvic issues.
Also known as a pelvic floor physiotherapist, these professionals assess and treat conditions such as pelvic organ prolapse, incontinence and chronic pelvic pain. By employing techniques such as targeted exercises, biofeedback, manual therapy and education on pelvic floor health, women’s health physios provide both physical and emotional support throughout the recovery process.
Some consultations may involve an internal examination of the pelvic floor muscles to detect prolapse and for pessary fittings. For this procedure, women need to feel at ease and reassured with the practitioner conducting the examination. Being a women's health physiotherapist allows practitioners to help women by addressing sensitive and life-altering health issues. Helping women regain their confidence, improve their quality of life and achieve personal fitness and health goals can bring tremendous job satisfaction and a sense of purpose.
Average women’s health physiotherapist salary: $93,000 per year
4. Women’s health researcher
Working in the field of health research, either as a research assistant or clinical researcher, is an interesting and exciting career path. Researchers have the opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking studies that can address prevalent health challenges on an individual or societal level.
In the context of women’s health, areas of research may include reproductive health, perinatal health, mental health conditions, violence against women, breast cancer, menopause and healthy ageing. Historically, women were often underrepresented in clinical trials and medical research, leading to a critical gap in understanding their specific health concerns. This has opened up new initiatives and opportunities for women to be the subjects of contemporary medical research.
A women’s health researcher can directly impact public health policies and clinical practices, improving outcomes for women across diverse populations. This role has a sense of purpose, as each discovery or advancement has the potential to empower women and enhance their health. Research involving women empowers them to make informed health decisions and bridges systemic gaps in healthcare delivery.
Average health researcher salary: $111,000 per year
5. IVF nurse
IVF (in vitro fertilisation) nurses work closely with fertility doctors to assist with fertility treatment and procedures, including assisting ultrasounds, egg retrieval and embryo transfer. IVF nurses typically work in fertility clinics, hospitals or obstetric/gynaecologist offices. Their daily responsibilities may include monitoring ovulation cycle progress, coordinating care with patients and collaborating with other health professionals and specialists where necessary.
IVF nurses participate in patient education with regard to the IVF process and help monitor their progress throughout treatment. Part of their role is to ensure that women feel informed and cared for at every step. The support that IVF nurses provide to women who are trying to conceive influences their overall patient experience during what can sometimes be a complex and emotional fertility journey. IVF nurses can help bring empathy and encouragement to women as they undergo their fertility treatment.
The evolving field of fertility science reveals new discoveries, making this role one of the most rewarding and inspiring women’s health nurse jobs. IVF nurses contribute to creating or growing families and supporting women through their pregnancy journey, which is profoundly impactful both personally and professionally.
Average IVF nurse salary in Australia: $80,000 per year
6. Obstetrician
Obstetricians specialise in women’s reproductive health, pregnancy, childbirth and postnatal care. Their focus is on managing the health and wellbeing of both the mother and baby throughout these stages. Obstetricians handle various aspects of prenatal care, including ultrasounds, monitoring foetal development and diagnosing potential complications. They also deliver babies, whether through natural birth or surgical procedures such as cesarean sections (C-sections) and can address emergencies during childbirth.
Obstetricians can help provide women with tailored and comprehensive care, suited to their individual health needs and the needs of her growing baby. Providing a blend of medical expertise, compassion and dedication to women during an important life phase means this role is especially fulfilling and purposeful in the field of women’s health.
Average obstetrician salary in Australia: $230,000 per year
7. Gynaecologist
While obstetricians and gynaecologists often share overlapping areas of expertise, their primary roles are distinct. Gynaecologists can work in women’s reproductive health and can also diagnose and treat conditions affecting the genito-urinary systems. They may address health concerns such as endometriosis, uterine fibroids, polycystic ovary syndrome and pelvic inflammatory disease.
Their responsibilities are varied, including conducting routine gynaecological exams, such as pap smears, pelvic exams and sexually transmitted infection screenings. Gynaecologists can also perform surgeries related to reproductive health, such as hysterectomies. They may also prescribe contraceptives, help manage menopause symptoms and support the fertility process for women trying to conceive.
Working as a gynaecologist is a deeply rewarding healthcare career due to its focus on improving and supporting women’s health throughout various life stages. Gynaecologists have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact by addressing critical health concerns, from preventive care to complex medical conditions. Additionally, these professionals can create long-term patient relationships, making them an important guide to help empower women in maintaining their pelvic, urinary and reproductive health.
Average gynaecologist salary in Australia: $188,000 per year
8. Sonographer
Sonographers use ultrasound technology to produce images of the body's organs, musculoskeletal system and soft tissues, which help doctors detect and diagnose various conditions related to these systems. The role requires a combination of technical expertise, attention to detail and strong interpersonal skills.
In women’s healthcare, ultrasound technology is used to monitor foetal development during pregnancy. Sonographers may also use ultrasound to help identify specific conditions, including uterine fibroids, ovarian cysts and breast cancer. Some of these procedures are conducted as part of an internal pelvic ultrasound, which requires expert skill and sensitivity to the patient’s experience.
Sonography is a highly rewarding career choice in women’s health, as it plays a vital role in the health of women across many life stages. From prenatal care to gynaecological conditions, early detection, diagnosis and treatment using ultrasound technology can have a huge influence on a woman’s health and quality of life.
Average sonographer salary: $125,000 per year
9. Nurse practitioner
Nurse practitioners are advanced practice registered nurses who provide primary care and specialised nursing care to people in various healthcare settings. Nurses in these roles are experienced, senior nurses with a broader scope of practice compared to registered nurses. They can diagnose and treat conditions, prescribe medications, request pathology tests and provide patient education.
For nurse practitioners working in women’s healthcare, they can provide nursing care to address a wide range of health concerns specific to women. They can carry out advanced health assessments, conduct gynaecological exams and perform pap smears. Nurse practitioners can also assist with and provide advice on contraception methods, including intrauterine devices, oral contraceptive pills and other hormonal therapies. They can also counsel women on the advantages and disadvantages of each contraceptive intervention to support informed decision-making.
Through preventative care and health education, nurse practitioners can give women the tools they need to make better decisions about their health. By developing an empathetic connection with their patients, nurse practitioners help improve outcomes in women's health but also empower women to take control of their wellbeing. Their broader practice scope and advanced skill set make them invaluable in addressing the unique and diverse health needs of women.
Average nurse practitioner salary: $140,000 per year
10. Social worker
Social workers provide counselling and practical support for people struggling with a range of challenges that can impact their welfare. These health professionals connect disadvantaged and vulnerable people to mental health and financial support services and can provide assistance with housing and employment resources.
Social workers play a crucial role in supporting women through various challenges. They can provide counselling and emotional support to women who have experienced domestic and family violence, helping them rebuild their lives and access safe housing. They may also assist women navigating complex legal proceedings regarding care arrangements for their children. Social workers also support women in accessing healthcare services unique to their needs, including reproductive and sexual health services. Their work is important in fostering environments where women can achieve safety, stability and equal opportunities.
Social work is a deeply rewarding career choice for those passionate about making a positive impact in the lives of women. It offers the opportunity to empower women and their families and provides pathways to better, safer lives.
Average social worker salary: $95,0000 per year
11. Counsellor
Counsellors offer guidance to individuals facing emotional challenges, helping them find positive strategies to overcome them and thrive. Counsellors may work with clients on a short-term basis or over longer periods using psychotherapy to help support their mental and emotional health.
A counsellor working in women’s health may provide their services in acute situations, such as recent family violence, sexual assault, unplanned pregnancies or to provide emergency support for their safety. Depending on the role, their typical duties may involve conducting triage assessments for clients and delivering individual or group counselling services to women. They may also be integral in the development of educational programs and community health promotion initiatives to improve the emotional health and wellbeing of women.
Working as a counsellor in women's health is an incredibly rewarding career because it offers the chance to make a meaningful difference in critical stages of women's lives. For example, providing emotional support to expectant mothers during pregnancy can help them feel more confident and reassured. Offering guidance on mental health issues like anxiety or postpartum depression can restore hope during difficult times. Helping women navigate menopause, a phase often accompanied by physical and emotional upheaval, can bring them validation and clarity.
Women’s health counsellors help create a safe, supportive space where women feel seen, heard and validated in their experiences.This role is vastly fulfilling, as it enables women to openly share their concerns, find practical solutions and forge personalised paths toward better health and wellbeing.
Average counsellor salary in Australia: $100,000 per year
The courses below are listed by qualification level, from lowest to highest.
12. Dietitian
A dietitian is a health professional who specialises in providing dietary and lifestyle advice to support optimal health. They are experts in human nutrition and understand the importance of dietary patterns and how food influences health. They can assess a client’s dietary needs and create personalised nutrition plans for people at all life stages.
Dietitians can provide dietary support and interventions to help in various women’s health areas. They can support women wanting to attain a healthy weight and can also provide specialised interventions for eating disorders more prevalent in women, such as anorexia nervosa.
Similarly, for perinatal health, dietitians can help pregnant women and new mothers to ensure they are meeting their nutritional requirements for both themselves and their babies. This can include addressing challenges like nausea during pregnancy, managing gestational diabetes through healthy eating and supporting the increased nutritional demands of breastfeeding.
Dietitians also play a critical role in supporting women through menopause by addressing dietary changes to manage symptoms such as weight gain, bone density loss and fluctuating hormonal levels. Dietitians can empower women to make sustainable lifestyle changes, providing education on making healthy food choices that’s adapted to their needs.
Average dietitian salary: $85,000 per year
Benefits of working in women’s health
Working in women’s health is a unique and rewarding area of healthcare with advantages for healthcare professionals, patients and the broader Australian healthcare system.
Here are some of the benefits of working in women’s healthcare:
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Rewarding career specialisation for healthcare professionals
For healthcare professionals, specialising in women’s health provides the opportunity to focus on a field that greatly impacts lives. Whether it’s supporting women through pregnancy, diagnosing and managing complex conditions or facilitating preventative care, a women’s health specialisation affords health professionals deeply fulfilling work in a range of disciplines.
Healthcare professionals also have boundless opportunities to expand their skills, pursue advanced certifications or engage in public health initiatives dedicated to women, ensuring long-term career development. -
Improved health outcomes for women and society
There are biological factors specific to women that shape health and disease outcomes. This means women need to be at the centre of every aspect that addresses health promotion, prevention and healthcare.
Women’s health focuses on delivering tailored care that addresses their unique biological, hormonal and reproductive health needs. Professionals working in women’s health jobs can contribute to better health outcomes for women by providing personalised care. This targeted approach empowers women to lead healthier lives.
The care that women receive during pregnancy and childbirth also benefits the health of their children, families and broader community. Research shows that when women are healthier, their children thrive, leading to stronger, more educated and more productive societies. This far-reaching impact underscores the broader community value of investing in women’s health. -
Women-focused research advancements in Australian healthcare
Research in women’s health ensures that Australia’s healthcare system can better address women’s distinctive health challenges.
Examples of this are initiatives like the Australian Longitudinal Study on Women’s Health. This pioneering national study delves into what shapes women’s health across their lives. This project offers a unique and comprehensive look at the factors influencing women’s health. Significant outcomes are highlighted in research areas including endometriosis, infertility, iron-deficiency anaemia, breast cancer, osteoporosis and other women-centric health concerns. This is the largest longitudinal women’s health study in Australia, which has the potential to influence public health policy and advance the country’s healthcare services to better support women.
A career in women’s health research is not just about addressing health concerns; it’s about fostering systemic improvements that elevate the quality of life for women and their communities.
Kickstart your career in women’s health
There are many different paths to take within the field of women's healthcare. Each role offers novel opportunities to transform women's lives and contribute to their wellbeing.
Women’s and children’s health
For a headstart in the women’s health specialisation, consider studying the Graduate Certificate in Women’s and Children’s Health from the University of Technology Sydney (UTS) Online. This women’s health course helps develop foundational knowledge for senior roles in this field, focusing on contemporary women’s health issues and legal/ethical contexts.
This course provides a pathway towards a Master of Women’s and Children’s Health, which helps build leadership and expertise in a wide range of women’s health specialisations. You’ll gain the skills to provide focused care for women and children, supporting their needs from adolescence through motherhood and into their adult lives.
The courses below are listed by qualification level, from lowest to highest.
Women’s health research
The Graduate Certificate in Health Research from the University of Canberra (UC) Online equips health professionals with advanced research skills in epidemiology, qualitative and quantitative methods and ethical research practices. These skills are fundamental to help influence evidence-based healthcare policies and developing initiatives that directly address women's health concerns.
Women’s nursing, counselling, social work and sonography careers
For nurses, the Graduate Certificate of Nursing Majoring in Advanced Practice at James Cook University (JCU) Online or the Graduate Certificate of Advanced Nursing at UTS Online focuses on developing leadership, clinical decision-making and patient care skills. These programs allow you to expand your knowledge in advanced nursing, supporting your pathway to becoming a nurse practitioner.
A career in counselling can begin with the Graduate Certificate of Counselling at Edith Cowan University Online, which provides valuable person-centred counselling skills needed to support women on their path to better wellbeing across different life stages.
If your passion lies in supporting women and families in diverse social contexts, the Master of Social Work (Qualifying) from UC Online provides a pathway to a career as a social worker, case manager or family support worker.
Similarly, the Graduate Certificate in Ultrasound Studies from UC Online provides foundational training for aspiring sonographers, a critical field in women's health for services like prenatal imaging and gynaecological diagnostics.
These courses are designed to advance your career prospects in women’s health while offering flexible, online learning adapted to your study needs, career goals and lifestyle.
The courses below are listed by qualification level, from lowest to highest.
Shape lives and build a rewarding healthcare career
Women’s health jobs offer an attractive combination of career satisfaction and the opportunity to make an enduring difference. Whether you aim to assist mothers during childbirth, conduct groundbreaking research or educate future generations, working in this specialisation enables you to empower women and contribute to Australia’s healthcare system.
Consider these courses and pave the way for a career that allows you to transform lives and contribute to the advancement of women's health globally. Take the first step toward building your career by exploring further education in women’s health.
Curious about other health professions? Explore GlobalHealth Education’s university partner courses in social work, public health, counselling, nursing, psychology, leadership and mental health, choose a course and enquire to speak to a Student Enrolment Advisor who can advise you on career pathways that best suit you and your study needs.
