Female Health at Every Stage of Life

We all know that women’s lives are full of changes and moving into different stages of growth. Every female encounters significant crossroads of life, with each path representing the vibrant and evolving phases one experiences, from the blossoming energy of adolescence to the graceful wisdom of menopause. Each phase brings its own set of challenges and triumphs, shaping one's identity and strength.

According to the constitutional Article 21, women have the right to independently and responsibly maintain the highest standard of sexual and reproductive health. They can make reproductive decisions free from discrimination, coercion, and violence.

Puberty and menopause are not just biological milestones, but they are personal journeys marked by significant physical, emotional, and social changes. Female health has been neglected over the years. Do you know what the main culprits responsible for it are?

Lack of awareness, education, and official financial backing for women have contributed to the increased deprioritisation of their health.?

Indian pregnant women show a 50 times higher risk of death due to pregnancy than that in industrialised countries.

Our responsibility is to overcome this incidental gap in the overall well-being situation of Indian females. But the question arises of how to do it.

Equitable access to medical, mental, and social facilities and services is the key to unlocking their reproductive rights effectively.

However, each phase is associated with different kinds of issues regarding reproductive health among females. Let's break it down in detail.?

Puberty: The Bloom of Womanhood

Young girls standing on the threshold of adolescence must realise that this is a time of discovery and self-awareness. Understanding the changes in your body builds a foundation for lifelong health.

Have you ever wondered what kind of problems a girl faces with reproductive well-being during puberty? Or how can it be handled??

Genital HPV infection is the most common sexually transmitted infection. High-risk HPV strains cause cervical cancer. Vaccines provide 80% protection against these and are best for girls and boys when administered early during adolescence.

Let’s look at some of the most common issues faced by the adolescent girls:

1. Menstrual Hygiene Management: Proper use and disposal of sanitary pads, tampons, and menstrual cups during puberty can prevent infections and discomfort.
2. Acne and Skin Care: Hormonal changes during puberty can increase acne and oiliness in the skin. So, girls should establish a skincare routine involving gentle cleansing, moisturising, and acne-prone products to prevent breakouts.
3. Vaginal Hygiene: Girls should be educated on vaginal hygiene to prevent infections and maintain reproductive health. For example, washing the external genital area with mild soap and water and using breathable cotton underwear.
4. Emotional and Mental Health: Puberty causes emotional and psychological changes, causing mood swings, anxiety, and low self-esteem.?
5. Sexual Health and Education: Comprehensive sexual education is essential for girls to understand sexuality, relationships, and contraception. It would empower them to make informed decisions about their sexual health during puberty.

The hormonal changes may also affect sweat production, resulting in body odour.

As girls develop pubic hair during puberty, they may need to learn how to groom and maintain it. Proper pubic hair care can include trimming, shaving, or waxing, depending on personal preference.

PCOS women face difficulty conceiving due to irregular ovulation and hormonal abnormalities. Treatments include medications, drugs, and IVF. But unlike popular belief, weight loss is not a cure. Obesity can worsen hormonal imbalances, so a balanced diet and exercise are recommended.

Now, you might wonder if there are simple ways to overcome the issues mentioned before and maintain appropriate reproductive health.

Menstrual Hygiene Management

• Sanitary pads, tampons, and menstrual cups each have their benefits. Girls should explore and choose the one which is most comfortable and convenient.
• To prevent infections and odours, changing sanitary products every 4-6 hours is important.
• Ensure sanitary products are disposed of properly to maintain hygiene and respect the environment.

Daily Cleaning

• Use mild, unscented soap and warm water to clean the genital area daily.?
• Avoid douching and using scented products that can disrupt the natural pH balance.

Wear Breathable Underwear

• Opt for cotton underwear to keep the area dry and reduce the risk of infections.

Stay Hydrated and Eat Healthily

• A balanced diet and adequate hydration support overall health, including the reproductive system.

Educate and Communicate

• Encourage open discussions about menstrual health and hygiene. Knowledge empowers girls to make informed choices.

Menopause: Accepting Change with Grace

Menopause is a natural progression that marks a new chapter of life. With it come unique challenges, from hormonal fluctuations to changes in vaginal health. It is the time to celebrate the strength, resilience, and beauty of womanhood.?

1. Vaginal Dryness: Menopause can cause vaginal dryness, itching, and discomfort, increasing the risk of infections.?
2. Urinary Incontinence: Menopausal women may experience urinary incontinence or leakage due to weakened pelvic floor muscles and changes in bladder function.
3. Changes in Menstrual Bleeding: As women transition through menopause, their menstrual cycles often become irregular, with lighter or heavier bleeding than usual. Some women may experience unpredictable spotting or prolonged periods.?
4. Hot Flashes and Night Sweats: Reduced oestrogen levels trigger the hypothalamus to become more sensitive to temperature changes. When it perceives warmth, the hypothalamus initiates a hot flash to cool the body.
5. Bone Health: During menopause, women are at an increased risk of osteoporosis due to hormonal changes that affect bone density.?

Another common issue faced by women during menopause is genital atrophy, a condition characterised by thinning and drying of vaginal tissues. It can cause soreness, irritation, and increased infection susceptibility. Doctors may prescribe vaginal moisturisers or oestrogen therapy to alleviate symptoms.

According to a report published by National Cancer Institute over 200 million women worldwide use oral contraceptive pills, which are safe and have no scientific link to cancer. They help reduce the risk of ovarian and uterine cancer significantly.

Moving further, let's discuss simple methods that can help prevent and treat these issues to ensure long-term well-being. Experiencing menopause is a challenge in itself, and relevant knowledge can help you handle the phase with ease.

Vaginal Dryness

• Alleviate dryness and discomfort with lubricants or vaginal moisturisers designed for this purpose.
• Staying hydrated and consuming a diet rich in phytoestrogens (found in soy products) can help maintain vaginal health.

Urinary Incontinence

• Regular pelvic floor exercises can strengthen pelvic muscles and improve bladder control.
• Use pads or specialised underwear to manage urinary leaks discreetly.

Menstrual Changes

• Keep a menstrual diary to track changes and manage irregularities effectively.
• Seek medical advice if experiencing unusually heavy or prolonged bleeding.

Hot Flashes and Night Sweats

• Maintain good hygiene, use breathable fabrics, and keep cool with fans or cooling products.
• Incorporate stress-reducing activities like yoga and meditation to manage symptoms.

Bone Health

• Ensure adequate calcium and vitamin D intake through diet or supplements to maintain bone density.
• Engage in weight-bearing exercises to strengthen bones.

Remember that each phase of womanhood is a unique symbol of resilience, wisdom, and beauty. Whether experiencing the energetic surge of adolescence or embracing the serene wisdom of menopause, your journey is a testament to your strength and grace.

Reproductive health and hygiene are more than just routines; they are acts of self-love and empowerment. By understanding and caring for your body, you honour your life adventures. So stay determined and keep loving yourself because nothing is more beautiful than living a woman's entire life.