National Girl Child Day is not just a calendar event, it's a reminder of the ongoing journey towards empowering and protecting the rights of every girl & their well being. Celebrated on January 24th in India, it holds historical significance as it aims to address and combat the challenges faced by girls.
“Recognising the importance of empowering girls, the day emphasises gender equality and works towards eliminating discrimination. As India commemorates this day, it is crucial to shed light on an issue that affects countless young girls- dysmenorrhea, commonly known as menstrual pain,” said Dr Pooja Kohli, Senior Ayurveda Expert, HempStreet.
Dysmenorrhea: Physical and Emotional Impact
“Dysmenorrhea is a common yet frequently overlooked issue that affects millions of girls worldwide. In India, 85% of females experience menstrual cramps and have a significant impact on a girl's well-being, both physically and emotionally,” said Dr Kohli.
“Menstrual pain, accompanied by symptoms like nausea and fatigue, can affect school attendance and may even lead to dropout in severe cases. Limited access to affordable menstrual products can make it challenging for girls to manage their periods comfortably. Also, stigma in India surrounding menstruation makes girls hesitant to discuss their health, affecting their ability to seek support,” said Dr Kohli, adding, beyond physical discomfort, dysmenorrhea also impacts emotional well-being, contributing to anxiety, stress, and depression.
Empowering Girls to Tackle Dysmenorrhea
National Girl Child Day serves as a platform to encourage open conversations about menstrual health and normalising discussions around dysmenorrhea. Dr Pooja Kohli, Senior Ayurveda Expert highlights natural remedies to tackle dysmenorrhea.
Calcium-Rich Diet
According to the National Library of Medicine, incorporating a calcium-rich diet is crucial for maintaining strong and healthy bones but it can also play a significant role in alleviating menstrual cramps. Regular incorporation of calcium rich food such as dairy products, leafy greens etc. in the diet can help girls with better bone health and reduce muscle cramping during menstruation.
Power of Ayurvedic herbs
Herbs like Vijaya, Ashwagandha, and Shatavari are renowned for their support in addressing menstrual pain. A study has shown that treatment with Vijaya showed positive effects on relieving menstrual cramps.
Optimal Sunlight Exposure
Vitamin D is essential for maintaining overall health. Sunlight exposure stimulates the production of Vitamin D in the body, which plays a role in reducing inflammation and supporting the immune system. Young girls should spend time outdoors in natural sunlight, especially during the early morning as it can contribute to better hormonal balance and alleviate menstrual discomfort.
Also read: Do You Experience Heavy Menstrual Bleeding? Expert Explains How Much Blood Loss Is Normal?
Menstrual Harmony with Yoga
Yoga offers targeted poses like child's pose (Balasana), bound angle pose (Baddha Konasana), forward bend (Uttanasana), and breathing exercises that can ease menstrual discomfort, alleviate stress, enhance circulation and contribute to a better menstrual cycle. Educational institutions should promote the practice of meditation and yoga among young girls to enhance their menstrual well-being.