The importance of women's health is paramount, particularly in the context of a population explosion. World Population Day, observed annually on July 11th, serves as a significant reminder of the ever-increasing global population and its implications on various aspects of human existence. As the population continues to grow rapidly, ensuring the well-being of women is crucial for the overall health and development of societies. We spoke to Dr Hira Mardi, Consultant, Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Manipal Hospital, Varthur, Karnataka, who explained the importance of women’s health amid the rising population.
Importance Of Women’s Health
Maternal Health
Dr Mardi said, “With a growing population, the number of pregnancies and child births also increases. Ensuring access to quality maternal healthcare services is essential for reducing maternal mortality rates and improving the health outcomes of both mothers and their children. Adequate prenatal care, skilled birth attendants, and postnatal support are crucial for the well-being of women during pregnancy and childbirth.”
According to the Asia-Pacific Population Journal, the burden of dependency and the scarcity of social and material resources in developing countries appear to have impeded the advancement of women towards greater gender equality.
Also Read: Importance Of Maternal Health Before & After Childbirth
Family Planning
Women's health plays a crucial role in effective family planning programs. Access to contraception, reproductive health services, and comprehensive sex education empower women to make informed decisions about their reproductive health, including the spacing and number of children they have.
Dr Mardi said, “When women can control their reproductive choices, they can better manage their health, education, and career aspirations, leading to improved socio-economic outcomes for themselves and their families. Recognising and upholding women's sexual and reproductive rights is vital in the face of population growth.” Women have the right to access safe and legal abortion services, reproductive healthcare, and freedom from coerced or child marriages. Protecting these rights ensures that women have control over their bodies, reproductive choices, and overall well-being.
Preventive Care and Non-Communicable Diseases
Dr Mardi highlighted, “Women's health encompasses a wide range of issues beyond reproductive health. Access to preventive care, screenings, and treatment for non-communicable diseases, such as cardiovascular diseases, cancer, and mental health disorders is crucial for their overall well-being.” Addressing these health concerns improves individual outcomes and reduces the overall burden on healthcare systems and society.
Ageing Population
As populations grow, the demographic composition also changes, leading to an ageing population. Women typically have longer life expectancies than men and their health needs evolve as they age. Providing appropriate healthcare services, including geriatrics care, addressing menopausal health, and promoting healthy ageing, is essential for maintaining health and quality of life in older women.
Also Read: Ageing And Vision Loss: Expert Explains Age-Related Macular Degeneration
Intersectionality
Dr Mardi said, “It's crucial to consider the intersectionality of women's health, as women from different socio-economic backgrounds, ethnicities, and marginalised communities may face unique health challenges.” Efforts to improve women's health must address these intersecting factors, such as poverty, discrimination, cultural barriers, and access to healthcare and ensure equitable health outcomes for all women.
Global Health and Development
Women's health is not just a local or regional issue. The well-being of women has a ripple effect on communities, economies, and future generations. By investing in women's health worldwide, societies can achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) set by the United Nations (UN), promoting health, gender equality, and sustainable development on a global scale.
Disclaimer
The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and we advise you to consult your expert for any queries.