Int'l Day of Action for Women's Health: Overcoming taboos, challenges in sexual and reproductive health

Bengaluru, NT Bureau: On Inter national Day of Action for Women’s Health, it would be apporpriate to focus on the strides and challenges in sexual and reproductive health (SRH) of women in Bengaluru with experts saying that one significant barrier to improving SRH is the pervasive taboo surrounding sexual health discussions.

Education and awareness

Dr Gayathri D Kamath, Senior Consultant in Obstetrics and Gynecology at Fortis Hospitals, underscores the importance of non-judgmental communication between healthcare providers and patients.

"In some countries, healthcare providers show their parental instinct and tend to reprimand girls...this should be strictly dissuaded," she asserts.

Effective communication fosters trust and encourages women to seek timely medical advice, crucial for maintaining SRH. Education plays a pivotal role in empowering women. The incorporation of sex education into school curriculums marks a significant step forward.

She added, “Additionally, gynaecologists engage in Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) activities, reaching out to young girls in schools and colleges to educate them on menstrual health and hygiene.”

Contraception: Empowering choices

Understanding contraceptive options is essential for women’s autonomy over their reproductive health. Dr. Gayathri Kamath explains the mechanics of birth control pills, which prevent ovulation by manipulating hormone levels.

"Birth control pills need to be started before the brain orders the ovary to manufacture eggs," she notes. These pills, typically taken for 21 days with a one-week gap, offer a reliable method of preventing pregnancy.

Emergency contraceptives such as the iPill should be reserved for actual emergencies to avoid menstrual disruptions, advises Dr Deepthi Bawa, Senior Consultant at SPARSH Hospital.

For long-term contraception, intrauterine devices (IUDs) such as Copper T are viable options for women who have already had children.

STI prevention and mental health

Regular testing for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) is crucial for sexually active individuals to detect infections early and prevent complications.

Dr Deepthi Bawa emphasises the importance of maintaining hygiene, using barrier methods, and ensuring mutual monogamy. Any abnormal symptoms, such as unusual discharge or burning sensations, should prompt immediate medical consultation.

Mental health is intrinsically linked to sexual well-being. Anxiety and depression can negatively impact sexual satisfaction. Recognising and treating these issues through counselling and medication can significantly improve sexual health.

Breaking taboos

A significant challenge in addressing SRH in Bengaluru is the deep-seated taboo surrounding sexual health discussions. Cultural stigmas often prevent open conversations about sexual and reproductive health, leading to misinformation and reluctance to seek medical help.

Addressing these taboos is essential for creating an environment where women feel comfortable discussing their health issues without fear of judgment or shame.

Bridging the gap

Dr Deepthi Bawa feels access to quality gynaecological care remains uneven, particularly in underserved communities.

She said, “Government medical colleges and telemedicine services are critical in bridging this gap, providing essential care to those who might otherwise be neglected.”

Cosmetic gynaecology represents a burgeoning field, offering procedures aimed at enhancing sexual satisfaction and quality of life. These advancements, though often seen as elective, highlight the evolving landscape of women's health.