Domestic violence, alcohol abuse and stress are the three main health issues facing women in its region, according to the Eastern Health Board.
The board has appointed a women's health development officer, Dr Freda O'Neill, who will chair a joint EHB/ National Women's Council committee. The committee will monitor initiatives to deal with women's health issues.
The initiatives include pilot projects in Coolock and Tallaght in conjunction with the Well Woman Centre and the Irish Family Planning Association, support for first time mothers, a programme to prevent teenage pregnancy and an outreach and drop in service for prostitutes.