Women play an important role in society, balancing responsibilities at home, work, and the community. Over time, the world has started accepting the need to prioritize women’s health, This provides better medical advancements and social awareness. Though men are increasingly showing respect and support for women, but still certain challenges exist.
Issues like menstrual health stigma, pregnancy-related depression, lack of reproductive health awareness, and limited medical research on female-specific conditions continue to impact women’s well-being. This article talks about the progress in women’s health , the struggles that remain and how we can move forward!
The good news is that science and healthcare have progressed significantly, offering solutions like improved maternal care, advanced reproductive treatments, and better mental health support. Addressing these issues and spreading awareness can lead to a healthier future for all women.
Why Silence on Menstrual Health?
Even today, menstruation is considered a taboo(prohibited) topic in many parts of the world. Some cultures treat menstruating girls as impure, forcing them to stay away from social activities. Menstruation is not just a topic for girls; boys should also be educated about it, and it should be taught clearly in schools.
“There are many menstrual hygiene products available, such as pads, menstrual cups, and tampons, yet some people still use charcoal during their periods.” The lack of proper sanitary products in rural areas leads many women to use unsafe materials, increasing the risk of infections.
Governments and organizations have taken steps to improve menstrual hygiene. Awareness campaigns, free sanitary pad distributions, and educational programs are helping break the stigma. Proper menstrual hygiene education not only improves women’s health but also empowers young girls to attend school confidently.
Mental Health and Pregnancy: The Silent struggle!
Pregnancy is often seen as a joyful phase, but many women experience postpartum depression and anxiety due to hormonal changes, physical stress, and societal expectations. In some cultures, women who struggle with motherhood are judged rather than supported, making the problem worse.
Counselling, medical support, and awareness campaigns have made it easier for women to seek help. Many hospitals now offer mental health screenings for new mothers, ensuring early detection and treatment of postpartum depression. Encouraging open discussions about mental health can help reduce stigma and provide necessary support.
Promoting gender equality in infertility care:
When a couple faces difficulty in conceiving, the woman is often blamed, even though fertility issues can affect both men and women equally. Lack of knowledge about reproductive health and ovulation timing adds to the problem.
Medical advancements like In Vitro Fertilization (IVF), hormone therapies, and fertility counselling have given hope to many couples. Educating both men and women about reproductive health can help break misconceptions and promote shared responsibility.
Also ,we have heard about the Janani Infertility Project in Kerala, which has successfully treated many infertility cases using low-cost homeopathic medicines. Even after failed IVF attempts, she has achieved success in treating infertility cases.
The government should encourage and promote such research while providing necessary funding to support its growth.
Prevent Dangerous abortion practices
Some women, due to financial issues or social pressure, resort to unsafe abortion methods at home, putting their lives at risk. Lack of access to safe medical procedures leads to severe infections, excessive bleeding, and even death.
Family planning programs and legal access to safe abortion services can prevent such tragedies. Women must be educated about contraception options and reproductive rights to make informed decisions about their health.
Breastfeeding and beauty , separating fact from fiction!
Nowadays, breastfeeding is considered a threat to beauty by some women, but we should not encourage this misconception.
Breastfeeding is crucial for both the mother and the baby, yet many women do not receive enough support or awareness about its benefits. Some working mothers struggle due to lack of maternity leave or workplace breastfeeding facilities.
Breastfeeding strengthens the baby’s immune system and reduces the mother’s risk of breast and ovarian cancer. Encouraging workplaces to provide breastfeeding-friendly environments can help more mothers continue nursing without stress.
Medical Advancements in Women’s Health
The science has introduced various treatments that have improved women’s health significantly:
• Detection of breast cancer in early stages:– most of the females are affected by breast cancers. Recent days ,Mammograms and genetic testing help in early diagnosis, increasing survival rates.
• Treatment for PCOS and hormonal issues:– Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) affects many women, causing irregular periods and fertility issues. The quality of life is improved by better treatments, lifestyle management and medications .
• Research for Heart disease in Women:– previously, most heart disease studies focused on men, because the people thinks the hearts disease are affecting men’s mostly leading to misdiagnosis in women. Now, researchers are developing gender-specific treatments. We can provide care based on individual needs.
• Cosmetic and Plastic Surgery:– While often seen as beauty enhancements, these surgeries help women recover from burns, accidents, and post-mastectomy reconstruction, boosting confidence and well-being.
Debunking Myths About Pregnancy:
Many myths about pregnancy still exist, leading to confusion and unnecessary restrictions. Some believe that pregnant women should avoid exercise, but in reality, light physical activity is beneficial for both mother and baby.
Another common myth is that eating for two is necessary, but excessive weight gain can cause complications. Educating women about pregnancy care through reliable sources can help them make healthier choices and avoid misinformation.
Taking Action: Policies and Solutions!
Governments and health organizations worldwide are taking steps to improve women’s health. For example, in India, ‘save the girl child and educate the girl child ‘scheme promotes the well-being of girls by supporting education and healthcare.
Female infanticide can be reduced by promoting such programs. Family planning programs educate people about reproductive health and contraception methods.
What’s next?
To ensure progress, we promote
• Open discussions about menstruation, pregnancy, and mental health.
• Provide accessible healthcare for all women, especially in rural areas.
• Research on female-specific diseases to improve diagnosis and treatment.
“Take necessary action against threats and harassment faced by women, especially by strengthening cybersecurity.”
Women’s health is the nation’s wealth !
“We have achieved many things in women’s health, but we still need to go further!”
By providing medical advancements, spreading awareness, and supporting gender equality, we can create a healthier and more empowered future for women. Every woman deserves proper healthcare, dignity, and respect—because when women thrive, society thrives!
