``It started because the health system didn't cater specifically for women's health,'' the centre's manager, Nafiye Mind, said.

``It [the system] had more to with people's physical health.

``But women have more responsibilities as carers and that can have impacts on their well-being.''

Ms Mind also said that some women did not want to talk to a male doctor about certain health issues.

``That's why we can arrange for pap smears to be done here,'' she said.

``A woman may have a good relationship with her male GP, but she might not feel comfortable giving him details about her sexual health, particularly if he knew her family.''

The Women's and Girls' Health Centre is open on Thursdays from 1pm to 8pm.

Ms Mind said this would make it easier for more women to consult them. She said women were free to talk about their health and legal problems or other matters of concern.

``We have a counsellor, a naturopath, a podiatrist and provide contraceptive advice and lesbian support,'' Ms Mind said.

She said domestic violence was a big concern, particularly as Blacktown has one of the highest rates of reported incidents.

``Workers sometimes go into local schools and talk to students about healthy relationships; how to look after themselves,'' she said.

Ms Mind said that even after 23 years, many women around Blacktown did not know of the centre's existence.

Blacktown Women's and Girls' Health Centre, 6 Prince Street, Blacktown. Phone: 98312070.