Introducing Te Aho Tapu
Te Aho Tapu - The Sacred Thread, honours the sacredness of wahine and the continuity of life. In raranga, te aho tapu is the strengthening thread that holds everything together.
This kaupapa supports wahine wellbeing as a whole -tinana, hinengaro, wairua, and whānau and helps shift kōrero about ikura away from silence and stigma.
Kia wātea te kōrero.
Make space for the conversation.
The Kaupapa
Who this
Kaupapa is for
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Wahine wanting support with their hauora.
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Wahine experiencing heavy, painful, or disruptive periods.
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Whānau supporting wahine.
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Wahine wanting trusted, culturally grounded information.
When to
reach out
Sometimes our bodies are telling us we need tautoko.
You might choose to reach out if:
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Your periods feel heavier or last longer than usual for you.
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Bleeding or pain disrupts everyday life, mahi, or rest.
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You’re feeling tired, run‑down, or unsure what’s “normal”.
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You simply want to talk things through.
How we
can help
Te Aho Tapu is designed
to be:
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Warm and calm, not rushed, not clinical.
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Non‑judgemental — wahine‑led kōrero, at your pace.
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Holistic, focused on the whole person, not just symptoms.
Kōrero Mai
Wahine Hauora
Heavy Bleeding
Heavy periods are common, but support is available. If your bleeding is hard to manage, lasts longer than usual, or leaves you feeling exhausted or unwell, it might be time to kōrero. You deserve support.
Bleeding that’s out of Pattern
Bleeding that’s out of pattern is worth checking. This can include bleeding between periods, after sex, or changes in timing, heaviness, or length. It doesn’t always mean something serious, but it does deserve a kōrero.
Pelvic Organ Prolapse
Pelvic organ prolapse happens when organs in the pelvis shift lower over time. You might feel heaviness, notice a bulge, or have trouble with your bladder, bowel, or sex. Symptoms can worsen by the end
of the day and ease with rest. Support and treatment are available.
Post-menopausal Bleeding
Post-menopausal bleeding should always be checked. Even light bleeding after 12 months without a period is worth a kōrero. It can
be due to thinning tissues, but may need further investigation.
Cervical Cancer & Screening
Cervical screening checks for HPV and early cell changes, often before symptoms appear. Kōrero with us if you notice bleeding between periods or after sex, unusual discharge, or bleeding after menopause. If you’re due or unsure, we can help you book — and self-swab options are now available.
Resources
Period Tracking Apps
Period tracking apps are used to track your period and sometimes other things
It's important to use trusted apps, Healthify have a great article which covers some of these apps and how to use them safely.
FAQs
01
When should I get my symptoms checked?
If something feels different for you — like unusual bleeding, pain, or discharge — it’s worth a kōrero. Even small changes can be important.
02
What happens at an appointment?
We’ll talk through your symptoms in a safe, supportive space. If needed, we may do an exam or recommend tests, but you’ll always be informed and in control.
03
What is cervical screening and do I need it?
Cervical screening checks for HPV and early cell changes. If you’re eligible or unsure, we can help you book — and self-swab options are available to make it easier.
04
Do I need a referral?
No. You do not need a referral to reach out or start a kōrero. You can contact Wahine Hauora directly and we can help guide you to the right support at a pace that feels comfortable.
05
What if I’m nervous or whakamā about talking?
Many wahine feel this way, especially if they have had uncomfortable or dismissive experiences in the past. Wahine Hauora is designed to feel safe, calm, and respectful. You are not expected to have the right words or know where to start. We will meet you where you are.
Kōrero Mai
A safe space to chat with a wahine nurse
or health worker.
There are no silly questions — come have a kōrero, when you’re ready.