International Women's Day 2024: Insights On Empowering Women’s Health & Wellness

Imagine a pebble dropped into a still pond. The ripples spread outward,  creating waves reaching every corner. A woman's health is like that pebble. It creates ripples that impact not just herself but her family, her community, and, yes, even society as a whole. According to the WHO, women make up over half of the world's population and play vital roles in families, communities, and economies. Yet, despite their contributions, women often face unique challenges in achieving optimal health and well-being.

The 2023 Global Burden of Disease study highlights that non-communicable diseases like heart disease, cancer, and diabetes disproportionately affect women globally. Mental health concerns like anxiety and depression are also more prevalent among women compared to men.

As Dr. Miriam Stoppard, a renowned women's health expert, aptly states: "Women are not simply small men. They have different needs and risks throughout their lives." This blog is a comprehensive resource, delving into various aspects of women's wellness. We'll explore various women’s issues, uncover valuable tips, and provide insightful guidance for navigating different stages of life. 

As International Women’s Day 2024 approaches, this year's theme, "Count Her In: Invest in Women. Accelerate Progress.” couldn’t emphasise enough the importance of feminine health and wellness in the nation and beyond. Read on the blog about women’s wellness, and let’s join in to uplift women worldwide!

Key Highlights

• Over 22% of India's female population suffers from anaemia, highlighting a critical nutritional deficiency.|

  
  

• Cervical cancer is a leading cause of cancer deaths among women in India, responsible for approximately 67,477 deaths per year.

  
  

• Women in India experience higher rates of depression and anxiety compared to men, emphasising the need for mental health support.

  
  

• Only 12% of menstruating women in India have access to hygienic menstrual products, impacting their reproductive health.

  
  

• India's gender pay gap stands at a significant 27%, with women earning less than men for comparable work, affecting their economic security.

Table Of Contents

1. Why Are Women's Health And Wellness Important?

2. What Are Women's Health Issues?

3. 9 Actionable Women's Wellness Tips

4. The Final Say 

5. FAQs 

6. References 

Why Are Women's Health And Wellness Important?

Across history, society frequently dismissed or neglected women's wellness and health. Notably, in the 19th century, prevalent medical theories focused on the male body; this resulted in an insufficient grasp of, and thus inadequate treatment for, women's unique health requirements. The arrival of the 20th century brought about a change and shifted focus to ensure improved access to healthcare for women while safeguarding their rights simultaneously.

Today, prioritising women's health and wellness is crucial for several reasons:

• Throughout their lives, women uniquely experience health concerns due to biological differences; these include menstruation, pregnancy and menopause.

• Gender inequality and social norms can indeed harm women's health, acting as social determinants. Limited access to education, poverty, and insufficient control over resources - these factors exacerbate the health disparities. 

• Future generations bear the direct impact of a mother's health and optimal well-being for women, which translates to healthier families and communities.

  
  

Also Read: Understanding 10 Types Of Wellness Dimensions For A Fulfilling Life 

Why Is Women's Health Important In India?

India historically grappled with women's health challenges, particularly child marriage's adverse impact on girls' well-being. Until the late 20th century, this practice hindered both health and education. The Maternity Benefit Act of 1961 marked a vital stride in addressing alarmingly high infant and maternal mortality rates (MMR). However, significant disparities persist, with rural women and those from lower socioeconomic backgrounds often facing greater challenges in accessing quality healthcare.

Experts from India and Harvard University conducted a study revealing that gender bias in India limits or entirely denies women access to quality healthcare; indeed, numerous stereotypes suppress their voices on crucial health issues. 

Reproductive rights, crucial for women’s health, receive the least attention in India despite abortion causing 14% of maternal fatalities. Access to safe abortion services remains a concern. Improving health standards requires addressing family planning, promoting contraception awareness, and establishing accountability for high-quality healthcare services, allowing women to navigate pregnancy without undue stress.

Also Read: PCOS: One In Five Indian Women Suffers From PCOS 

What Are The Signs Of Poor Women’s Health?

While men and women may exhibit symptoms of different disorders, certain signs, particularly affecting women, require attention that may indicate poor health in the case of women. You should seek medical advice if you are experiencing: 

• Chronic and persistent sadness

• Altered eating habits

• Heightened irritability

• Unexplained breathlessness

• Low energy levels

• Irregular sleeping pattern/sleeplessness or insomnia 

• Feeling restless 

• Post-menopausal bleeding

• Excessive hair loss

• Change in size/shape/colour of a mole

• Lump in the breast

• Substance abuse or alcohol misuse

• Intense fear, anxiety and depression 

• Anti-social behaviour or suicidal thoughts/tendencies

What Are Women's Health Issues?

Women often face health issues differently, with exclusive concerns like breast cancer and higher risks of heart attacks and mental health challenges. Here are some common women’s health issues: 

Also Read: Cervical Cancer: Causes, Symptoms, Stages, Diagnosis, Prevention And Treatment 

9 Actionable Women's Wellness Tips

After you have looked into various women’s health issues, let’s have a look at these women's wellness tips that individuals can follow: 

1. Follow A Balanced Diet Plan 

Nutrition plays a vital role in maintaining women's wellness and preventing health issues. To achieve optimal health and prevent chronic diseases, nourish your body with a diverse selection of whole, unprocessed foods. These should include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Limit intake of unhealthy fats, added sugars, and processed foods to promote overall well-being. Stay mindful of these choices for a healthier future.

Also Read: Importance Of Balanced Diet: Tips, Components, Food List And Diet Plan 

2. Create A Personalised Exercise Routine

Find physical activities you enjoy, whether it's dancing, swimming, brisk walking, or weight training. Aim for 150 minutes or more per week of moderate-to-intense activity or 75 minutes or more of vigorous exercise. Remember to listen to your body and gradually increase intensity or duration as your fitness improves.

3. Schedule Regular Health Check-Ups 

Regular health check-ups are emphasised in women's wellness to detect and prevent issues early. Note the table below that describes recommended tests for women according to their age group: 

4. Embrace Financial Literacy 

Financial literacy is recognised as an essential skill for women's wellness and independence. So, get to know how money works, plan your spending, and find ways to save. Understanding money helps you make smart choices, become financially secure, and feel less stressed. Plus, it's a step towards being financially independent, where you have control over your own money.

5. Prioritise Quality Sleep 

Try to get between seven and eight hours of sleep every night. Establish a consistent sleep schedule, create a relaxing bedtime routine, and ensure a comfortable sleep environment for optimal rest and rejuvenation.

6. Maintain A Healthy Work-Life Balance 

Encouraging work-life balance is a key aspect of women's wellness in professional settings. Set boundaries, manage your time effectively, and prioritise activities that bring you joy and relaxation outside of work. This enhances general well-being and reduces the risk of burnout.

7. Tame The Tension With Stress Management

Stress management techniques are often integrated into women's wellness programs. So, learn healthy coping mechanisms to manage daily stressors. Explore techniques like meditation, deep breathing exercises, mindfulness practices, or engaging in activities you find calming to manage stress and enhance emotional wellness.

8. Embrace The Power Of Yoga & Meditation 

Yoga and meditation are popular practices embraced for women's wellness benefits. Yoga combines physical postures, breathing exercises, and meditation to improve flexibility and strength and reduce stress. Meditation promotes relaxation, improves focus, and enhances self-awareness.

9. Let Go Of The Bad Habits 

Identify unhealthy habits that negatively impact your well-being and gradually replace them with positive alternatives. This could involve limiting screen time before bed, reducing sugary drinks, or quitting smoking. Remember, progress over perfection is key!

Also Read: 11 Best New Year Healthy Living Ideas And Habits To Adopt In 2024! 

The Final Say 

Not only is prioritising women's wellness a personal choice, but it also constitutes a collective responsibility. The complexities of women's health transcend merely biological differences and intertwine with the fabric of societal well-being. Acknowledging and tackling the singular challenges that women encounter is not just an issue related to empathy; rather, it becomes crucial for progress.

As International Women's Day 2024 approaches, we confront compelling statistics: the pervasive prevalence of anaemia; and an enduring gender pay gap. In this recognition, our collective commitment to women's health emerges as a catalyst for change. Understanding health issues alone is insufficient; it demands embracing actionable steps!

Let us not limit ourselves to mere awareness but rather actively empower. We should foster open dialogues on women's health, dismantle stereotypes and advocate for universal access to high-quality healthcare. In honouring the strength and resilience of women, we must commit ourselves to improving their overall well-being a strategy that propels progress not only for them but also catalyses global advancement.

FAQs 

1. What is a woman’s wellness?

Well, women’s wellness means addressing and enhancing the overall health, mental well-being, and specific needs of women while considering factors like reproductive health, mental health, and lifestyle.

2. How can I organise wellness for women workshops in my office? 

Many organisations now focus on women's wellness programs to empower and support women. You can organise wellness for women workshops in your office by: 

• Collaborating with health experts, 

• Planning sessions on nutrition, mental health, and fitness, and 

• Encouraging open discussions to empower and educate participants.

  
  

3. What are some of the government's healthy mother wellness and care programs in India? 

Government health programs in India, such as Pradhan Mantri Surakshit Matritva Abhiyan and Janani Suraksha Yojana, aim to ensure safe motherhood and quality maternal care, contributing to women’s wellness. You can refer to this page to learn more about such government programs. 

4. Should female wellness programs be included in school and college curricula? 

Yes, female wellness programs can and should be included in schools and colleges, promoting holistic health education and emotional well-being and empowering young women and men with the knowledge and practices for a healthy lifestyle.

References 

• The silent threat: Women and heart disease in India 

• 6 priorities for women and health - WHO 

• Women's Wellness Through Equity and Leadership (WEL): A Program Evaluation

• Promoting wellness in women across the life span

• Steps taken by Government of India to improve Women's Health 

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