As part of the 9th Ayurveda Day celebrations, the Department of Stri Roga and Prasuti Tantra (Gynaecology & Obstetrics), Amrita School of Ayurveda, in collaboration with the ASWAS Committee, organized an awareness session on various aspects of women’s health, particularly concerning menstrual health, breast and cervical health, sexual and reproductive health, and the services available at the hospital.
The session, which was organized under the guidance of Dr. Anjali M. V., Associate Professor and Dr. Manjula C. M., Assistant Professor of the same department. It was facilitated by the final-year postgraduate doctors.
The primary focus of this awareness session was to educate the Social Work students about women’s health, particularly in areas that often go unnoticed or are stigmatized. The session sought to empower these future social workers with accurate information, enabling them to create an impact within communities by advocating for and educating others on women’s health issues.
The session began with a detailed discussion on menstrual health, emphasizing the importance of hygiene during menstruation to prevent infections and complications. The postgraduate doctors addressed common myths and taboos associated with menstruation, which are still prevalent in many parts of the country. They highlighted the need for open conversations about menstrual health, promoting menstrual hygiene management in schools and communities, and encouraging the use of sanitary products. They also discussed the importance of tracking menstrual cycles for early detection of any irregularities, which could indicate underlying health issues.
A significant portion of the session was dedicated to creating awareness about common gynaecological conditions, including Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS), Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS), Dysmenorrhea (painful periods), and Endometriosis. The doctors explained the symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options for each condition.
They particularly focused on PCOS, a condition that affects a large number of women and can lead to infertility if left untreated.
The discussion on sexual health covered various topics, including sexually transmitted infections (STIs), safe sexual practices, and the importance of consent in sexual relationships. The doctors emphasized the use of contraception, particularly condoms, to prevent both unintended pregnancies and the spread of STIs.
They also highlighted the importance of educating young people about sexual health and safe practices, especially in rural areas where access to sexual health education is limited. The doctors encouraged the students to be proactive in creating awareness about sexual health in their communities.
The session also addressed reproductive health and family planning. The doctors provided information on various methods of contraception, including hormonal and non-hormonal options, and discussed their advantages and disadvantages. They stressed the importance of informed decision-making when it comes to family planning, ensuring that women and couples have access to accurate information and services.
The doctors also provided sessions on breast and cervical cancer awareness. The doctors demonstrated the correct technique for breast self-examination and stressed the need for regular mammograms for women over the age of 40 or those with a family history of breast cancer. They also discussed lifestyle choices that can reduce the risk of breast cancer, such as maintaining a healthy weight, limiting alcohol intake, and engaging in regular physical activity. The doctors explained the role of the human papillomavirus (HPV) in the development of cervical cancer and emphasized the importance of the HPV vaccine for young women. They also discussed the importance of regular Pap smears for early detection of cervical abnormalities.
The postgraduate doctors provided information on the symptoms of cervical cancer, such as abnormal vaginal bleeding, pelvic pain, and pain during intercourse, urging the audience to seek medical advice if they experience any of these symptoms.
The awareness session was highly informative and well-received by the Social Work students, who expressed their gratitude for the valuable information shared. The session not only provided them with essential knowledge about women’s health but also inspired them to take this information into the communities they will be working with as future social workers.
The session also fostered a sense of responsibility among the students to become advocates for women’s health, promoting awareness about these important issues, and ensuring that women, particularly those from marginalized communities, have access to healthcare services.
