CHEARS

The disparity in healthcare exists not only in access to facilities but also in terms of the distribution of resources to give equitable healthcare to all humans. Adequate health care to women still remains a goal that we need to achieve. The wide prevalence of certain specific disorders in women of different age groups makes it important to take due care at the right time so that we can reduce the occurrence.

Here’s a list of 5 important checks that every girl/woman should take in her lifetime.

1. IRON DEFICIENCY ANEMIA: As girls enter into puberty and start going through menstrual blood loss every month, the chances of them suffering from iron deficiency anemia become extremely high. The average amount of blood loss in each cycle is 50ml, which also simultaneously increases the dietary iron requirement, sometimes to 3-4mg each day in case of heavy period blood loss, which is difficult to achieve. It is hence mandatory to regularly check hemoglobin levels, especially of girls who have heavy bleeding, look pale, are not feeling energetic enough to do normal day-to-day activities, are lethargic, or are not able to concentrate in studies. Early intervention and treatment are required to stop it from leading to severe problems at a later age.

2. SEXUALLY TRANSMITTED INFECTIONS AND DISEASES: As teens gradually enter into adulthood and start exploring their sexuality, it predisposes them to the risk of sexually transmitted infections and diseases. Sex education at the right age is important so that proper protections are taken. Indian education system still does not practice this compulsorily. The risk of these infections varies across different sexual practices. Whatever be your sexual orientation, it is advisable to consult a specialist every year to screen for relevant infections and diseases. Also making yourself aware of healthy sexual practices, and the use of contraceptives is of utmost importance.

3. PRE-PREGNANCY CHECKUP: Before women plan for pregnancy it is important to have a thorough check-up to screen for all diseases that can potentially hamper the well-being of the mother and the child. These include Rubella, Chickenpox, Herpes, STD such as Chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, HIV, Hepatitis, Thyroid, and also genetic tests if required. Women should stop smoking, alcohol, and any other kind of substance abuse if they are addicted to one. Folic acid also needs to be started, especially in cases where there is a history of neural tube defects in the previous pregnancy. Weight management is also important to have a healthy pregnancy, to reduce the risk of developing high blood pressure during pregnancy, and ultimately have a normal delivery of the baby. Apart from these, taking steps to reduce down caffeine intake and start on a healthy diet is important for the overall health of the mother and the baby.

4. OSTEOPOROSIS: As women go through menopause, the level of estrogen in the body gradually reduces down and that has a direct implication on bone growth. Osteoporosis is extremely common in the post-menopausal age group. It is important to get the Bone Mineral Density checked if they experience pain or frequent fractures. Also taking special care of the nutrient requirement of women of that age group can help lower down the occurrence of this.

5. MENTAL HEALTH: The physical and psychological makeup differs across various genders and that also affects the way we perceive information and how we deal with situations. Girls, as they start getting periods, experience a lot of mental health issues during the pre-menstrual and the menstrual phase ranging from sleep, restlessness, sadness, irritability, tension sometimes leading to anxiety, and even dysphoria. With age, depression, organic brain disorders, and dementia are comparatively higher in women compared to men. The mental trauma that results because of rape, and other forms of violence and abuse that women face in their lifetime also needs to be taken care of. The incidence of these remain extremely high in women and thus, making it one of the most important aspects to be dealt with to maintain the overall health of women.

Giving women’s health the care and importance that it deserves can go a long way to improve the overall health status of the family, society, and country as a whole.