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Menstrual Health and Hygiene, Notes for Women Experiencing Periods

Leave a Comment / Articles, Feminine Health, Mental Health, Pregnancy, Women's Health /

Menstruation is a natural process that occurs after 28-35 days duration every month. This process occurs because of the cyclical production of hormones which promotes the growth of a mature follicle that releases an egg which if fertilized results in conception. If the egg is not fertilized, the endometrium sheds and results in menstrual flow. This is a monthly process that happens to all women. During menstruation adequate hygiene should be maintained. Menstrual health and hygiene are fundamental for the wellbeing of every female. It empowers women to be confident and at the forefront of their daily activities. According to the World Bank, around 500 million women worldwide lack access to basic menstrual products. An unsatisfactory menstrual hygiene predisposes the body to infections, which is why it is considered very important to follow the general protocol. Image Source: safeamna.org Period poverty in Pakistan  Period poverty refers to social or cultural barriers that prevent women to freely access menstrual products. Lack of access to these products affects the physical and emotional tendencies of females and hurdles to their potential of performing their best. Another important factor that prevents women to attain good menstrual hygiene and access menstrual products is due to the financial constraints and tax on these products which makes it expensive and out of reach for them. Hence the unmet menstrual needs of women is an important issue that must be tactfully handled by the concerned authorities to aid the access of these products to all. Lack of basic menstrual wellness Around 80 percent of girls discover about menstruation after getting their first period. This lack of knowledge predisposes them to hesitancy and emotional discomfort. Having the basic knowledge about the process of menstruation and menstrual products allows young girls to be mentally prepared for the time they experience it. It also protects them from social embarrassments. Menstrual health management (MHM) To prevent the occurrence of disease and infection the WHO has introduced guidelines that highlight some precautions. Menstrual health management (MHM) focuses on women and adolescent girls to use an absorbable material that can be changed in privacy with the availability of water soap and proper sanitation. Maintain the cleanliness and disposing the used menstrual product wrapped in toilet paper or paper bag in a bin instead of flushing it down the toilet. Previously cloth was most popularly used by women during menstruation but the use of newer menstrual products like pads, tampons, menstrual cups and period underwear is preferred now. All these products are advised to be changed within 4-8 hours to prevent overflow. The menstrual cups are reusable and are to be washed properly to maintain hygiene. Image Source: menstrupedia.com Important steps to maintain good hygiene Use of clean water – Rinsing of the vulva with clean water with the direction being from vulva to the anus. This is important in preventing the bacteria to reach from the anus to the vulva. Changing the menstrual products regularly – It is advised to change the menstrual products within 4 to 8 hours to prevent overflow but more importantly to prevent toxic shock syndrome. Toxic shock syndrome is a life-threatening condition which is caused by bacteria entering the body and releasing toxins which are harmful for the body. This is highly associated with the use of tampons in young girls. Use of good quality non scented products – Scented products can irritate the skin and lead to rash. Hence, it is better to use good quality products which are not scented. Bathing and cleaning – In some regions menstruation is considered impure and dirty. There are many misconceptions and people believe that bathing can have negative effects on health. This is false as there is no data that can show negative effects of bathing on health. However, bathing and maintaining cleanliness is good for health and prevents the development of possible infections. Image Source: Freepik.com Types of menstrual products and their availability There are many types of menstrual products available in the market. The safe menstrual products to maintain good hygiene are sanitary pads, tampons and menstrual cups. The choice of the perfect menstrual product depends on certain factors that vary amongst women. These factors include the level of activity, cost, ease of change and the amount of flow. The most used product is sanitary pads followed by tampons. Sanitary pads are the most popular amongst menstrual products. These are highly absorbent and made from natural and synthetic fibers majorly cotton. These need to be changed every 6-8 hours to prevent overflow and infection. Tampons are also commonly used. These are also made from natural and synthetic fibers and are inserted in the vagina. These may be a little difficult and uncomfortable for some women to insert hence pads are superiorly used. Tampons must be changed 4-6 hours to prevent the occurrence of toxic shock syndrome (TTS). This is a rare but life-threatening condition and may present with symptoms like fever, nausea, vomiting, muscle cramps and rashes. Menstrual cups have recently become popular and in use. These are washable and pocket friendly. Like tampons, a menstrual cup is inserted in the vagina and where they collect menstrual blood. The menstrual cup can be washed and changed till 12 hours which is greater duration than sanitary pads and tampons, but this again depends on the amount of flow. Other less popular options are menstrual discs and period underwear. Menstrual disc is placed in the vagina at the opening of cervix. The period underwear is made up of poly filaments that absorb the period flow and prevents leakage. It can be washed and reused for 2 years. Hence, the choice of menstrual product depends on the amount of flow, cost and sustainability. This article concludes the importance of menstrual hygiene and how it is significant to prevent the occurrence of infectious disease that may be life threatening for women. Take away points Menstruation is a natural process that occurs in all females and normally is at the end of 28–35-day cycle. There are

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To Be Aware of PCOS, its Symptoms and Possible Treatments.

Leave a Comment / Articles, Feminine Health, Mental Health, Pregnancy, Women's Health /

What is PCOS? Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal disorder found in females of reproductive age. It is predominated by a triad of presentation which includes hyperandrogenism, hirsutism and polycystic ovaries. These females experience anovulatory or missed cycles and often present with infertility. This disorder affects the ovaries which produce estrogen and progesterone. The cyclical production of these hormones enables the ovaries to release an egg by the process of ovulation. The egg, if fertilized by the sperm results in conception. Hence, the process of ovulation is the key to fertility which is impaired in females suffering from PCOS. What causes it? The exact cause of PCOS is not determined but there are some important factors that are considered to play a vital role in the pathogenesis of the disease. Insulin resistance, family history, increased level of androgens and inflammation are considered to be important factors. Image Source: The Vagenda Insulin resistance This refers to the decreased effect of insulin on peripheral tissues and one cause of this is obesity. Insulin resistance causes increased production of androgens (male hormones) from the ovaries. Androgens are normally secreted by the ovaries and adrenal glands but cause clinical symptoms when produced in excess. These include hirsutism and acne. When there is persistent insulin resistance there is a great chance of developing type 2 diabetes in the future. Lifestyle Sedentary lifestyle is an important contributor in causing PCOS. Eating an improper diet focused on carbs and calories with lack of exercise and energy consuming tasks leads to weight gain which directly leads to hormonal disturbance and PCOS. Focusing on a healthy diet and daily exercise is the first line of treatment for this disease which further signifies its importance. Family history Women with PCOS have 50% chances of having an immediate female relative with the same disease. Genes and family history have an important role in the development of this disease. Hormones The two most important hormones involved in the development of PCOS are androgens and insulin. These hormones are normally produced in humans in a regulated amount but when produced in excess, they prevent ovulation and disrupt menstrual cycle. Obesity increases the production of these hormones hence an important factor in causing this disease. Image Source: tlcfertility.com How do patients present? PCOS can be completely asymptomatic in some patients and may come to attention when the patient has irregular cycles or difficulty with getting pregnant. The most common presenting symptoms are, Irregular periods This refers to the absence of regular periods or missed cycles. Some women have less than eight cycles or less per year. Hair growth About 70% of women with PCOS have excessive hair growth on their face and other regions of body. This is because of high levels of androgen in the body. This excessive hair growth is called hirsutism. Acne The effect of elevated androgens also results in oily skin and acne. Weight gain Insulin resistance is a major cause of the resulting weight gain that occurs in patients with PCOS. Infertility As explained earlier, whenever the process of ovulation does not occur normally and the egg is not released, fertilization cannot occur. Depression and anxiety Depression and anxiety are common symptoms of PCOS. It is mostly estimated that this is due to hormonal changes, but further research is required. Some women have also been reported to suffer from eating disorders and all these side effects must be assessed by doctors to provide adequate help. Sleep troubles Women with PCOS tend to be obese and are more likely to have sleep apnea which causes breathlessness in sleep. This results in disturbed sleep and fatigue which aggravates bad mood. How is it diagnosed? PCOS is a clinical disease and is best diagnosed based on history and examination. A thorough history about menstrual cycle, weight gain and skin manifestations like excess hair growth on the body, acne and alopecia. The doctor may inquire about the family history as there is a close genetic relation observed. Other than this, a pelvic ultrasound to see for cysts in the ovaries is also done for diagnosis. Rotterdam criteria is used to diagnose this disease and is based on three factors Androgen excess- This can be measured and checked via labs and can be appreciated clinically in the form of acne and hirsutism. Ovulatory dysfunction- This can be assessed by the regularity of periods and a mid-cycle check of progesterone. Polycystic ovaries- These are cysts caused by incomplete ovulation when there is a failure of the mature follicle to release an egg and it forms a cyst. It is very important to rule out other important causes of such symptoms like adrenal and thyroid disorders. For this, blood tests are done to be certain about the cause. Image Source: Unknown Treatment of PCOS PCOS does not have a definitive treatment, but the symptoms can be managed. There is a range of symptoms that are presented and can be treated according to severity. Lifestyle changes The most initial and important step in treating PCOS is to focus on lifestyle changes. These changes are focused on diet and exercise. In overweight females, weight loss can improve the overall outcome of the disease and may prevent from the future complications of this disease. The ideal BMI is between 18.5-24.5. The diet must be focused on whole foods and fresh protein. Processed food intake increases weight gain and must be avoided overall. Medication Different medications can be helpful in treating the symptoms. Irregular menstrual cycle – Oral contraceptives are best used for making the menstrual cycle regular. These are taken from the first day of the cycle for 21 days (about 3 weeks) with a seven-day pill-free interval. The use of OCPs provides an added effect of prevention of endometrial cancer with regular cycles every month. Infertility – Women with PCOS who are trying to conceive can use clomiphene which induces ovulation and promotes fertility. It is a commonly used drug and may be the first recommended drug for

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The Lack of Public Spaces for Women in Pakistan

Leave a Comment / Articles, Women's Health /

Public spaces are vital for the social, cultural, and economic development of any society. However, in Pakistan, women face significant challenges when it comes to accessing and utilizing public spaces. The lack of safe and inclusive environments limits their participation, hinders their mobility, and perpetuates gender inequalities. Gendered Urban Spaces In Pakistani society, gender roles and cultural norms shape the perception of public spaces. Traditional notions of female modesty and protection often restrict women’s mobility outside the home. Streets, parks, markets, and transportation systems are predominantly male-dominated spaces, creating a hostile environment for women. The absence of gender-responsive urban planning exacerbates these challenges, with inadequate lighting, limited security, and insufficient facilities further discouraging women’s presence in public areas. Image Source: Freepik.com Limited Mobility and Economic Opportunities The lack of public spaces for women restricts their ability to move freely and access essential services, such as healthcare, education, and employment. Without safe and reliable transportation options, women face difficulties in commuting, limiting their participation in economic activities and hindering their professional growth. This exclusion from public spaces perpetuates gender disparities and contributes to the feminization of poverty in Pakistan. Safety Concerns and Harassment One of the primary obstacles for women in public spaces is the prevailing issue of harassment. Street harassment, verbal abuse, and sexual assault have become distressingly common, deterring women from venturing out alone or at certain times of the day. The lack of proper lighting, inadequate law enforcement, and social stigmatization surrounding reporting incidents all contribute to an unsafe environment for women. These safety concerns reinforce the notion that public spaces are not designed with women’s needs in mind, further marginalizing them. Promoting Inclusive Public Spaces Addressing the lack of public spaces for women requires a multifaceted approach. First and foremost, urban planning and infrastructure development should prioritize gender sensitivity, ensuring safe and accessible spaces for women. This includes well-lit areas, properly maintained walkways, public toilets, and the presence of security personnel. Public awareness campaigns and educational initiatives should also challenge societal norms that restrict women’s mobility and promote respect and tolerance. Image Source: Unknown The dearth of public spaces for women in Pakistan perpetuates gender inequalities and hinders their socio-economic progress. By recognizing the importance of inclusive public spaces and adopting gender-responsive policies, Pakistan can create an environment that empowers women, enhances their mobility, and allows them to participate fully in public life, fostering a more equitable and prosperous society. In Pakistan, a concerning gender disparity persists in law firms, business leadership, and mental health professions. Women’s underrepresentation limits diverse perspectives, impedes gender equality, and curtails the potential for more inclusive and comprehensive solutions in these critical sectors. Addressing this imbalance is crucial for societal progress and women’s empowerment.

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Understanding Why Pakistani Women Hesitate to Open Their Own Businesses

Leave a Comment / Articles, Business, Female Led, Finance /

In Pakistan, a country known for its rich cultural heritage and diverse society, women have made significant progress in various fields. However, one area where they still face considerable challenges is entrepreneurship. Pakistani women hesitate to open their own businesses for a myriad of reasons, ranging from cultural and societal constraints to personal and psychological factors. In this article, we will delve into these obstacles and explore how they contribute to women’s lower confidence compared to men in pursuing entrepreneurial ventures. Cultural Constraints Cultural norms and values play a pivotal role in shaping the lives of Pakistani women. Traditional gender roles and expectations often dictate that women should prioritize their roles as wives and mothers over pursuing careers or businesses. The concept of ‘purdah’ or modesty, which encourages women to remain in the confines of their homes, is deeply ingrained in many parts of Pakistani society. Consequently, these cultural constraints can discourage women from venturing into entrepreneurship as it may be perceived as unconventional and socially unacceptable. Image Source: Freepik.com Societal Pressures Societal pressures and the fear of judgment from family, friends, and the wider community can be overwhelming for Pakistani women. The conservative nature of society can stifle their entrepreneurial ambitions. Women who decide to start their own businesses may face resistance and skepticism, making them hesitant to take the plunge. The fear of not conforming to societal norms often leads to women abandoning their entrepreneurial dreams. Personal Constraints Personal constraints, including limited access to education and financial resources, also hinder Pakistani women from starting their businesses. The gender disparity in education, especially in rural areas, leaves many women with inadequate skills and knowledge required for entrepreneurship. Additionally, financial independence and access to capital are crucial for launching and sustaining a business. Unfortunately, many women lack the resources or collateral necessary to secure loans or investments, further discouraging their entrepreneurial aspirations. Socialization of Women From an early age, Pakistani girls are socialized differently from boys. They are often taught to be obedient, submissive, and risk-averse, while boys are encouraged to be assertive and confident. These gendered expectations lead to women having lower self-esteem and confidence when it comes to taking entrepreneurial risks. As a result, women may perceive business ownership as a domain reserved for men, contributing to their hesitation in pursuing such opportunities. Lack of Role Models The absence of prominent female role models in the Pakistani business landscape can also deter women from entrepreneurship. When women do not see others like them successfully owning and running businesses, they may question whether they too can break the mold. The lack of relatable role models can exacerbate feelings of inadequacy and discourage women from pursuing their entrepreneurial dreams. Legal and Regulatory Barriers While progress has been made in Pakistan to improve the legal and regulatory framework for businesses, there are still barriers that disproportionately affect women. Discriminatory laws and practices can make it difficult for women to register and operate their businesses, particularly in sectors considered traditionally male-dominated. These legal hurdles can add to the hesitation and apprehension of aspiring female entrepreneurs. Pakistani women possess the potential and drive to become successful entrepreneurs, but they face numerous hurdles that discourage them from realizing their ambitions. Cultural norms, societal pressures, personal constraints, socialization, and a lack of role models all contribute to their hesitance in opening their businesses. It is essential to recognize and address these obstacles to create an environment where Pakistani women feel empowered and confident to pursue entrepreneurship. Initiatives aimed at providing education, financial support, mentorship, and legal reforms can help break down these barriers, allowing women to thrive as entrepreneurs and contribute to the economic growth and prosperity of Pakistan. When women’s entrepreneurial potential is unlocked, the entire society stands to benefit from their innovation, creativity, and leadership. Image Source: Multiple [from left to right: Sharmeen Obaid, Shanaz Ramzi, Mahlaqa Shaukat] Some honorary mentions to act as role models for young women in business today: Mahlaqa Shaukat, the founder of AimFit, is a trailblazing woman in business. Her vision and determination have propelled AimFit to become a prominent fitness and wellness platform in Pakistan. Shaukat’s commitment to promoting health and fitness empowers women and sets an inspiring example of female entrepreneurship in the region. Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy is a renowned Pakistani filmmaker and journalist. She co-founded SOC Films, a production company known for producing socially relevant documentaries and films. Her documentary “Saving Face,” which focused on acid attacks on women in Pakistan, won an Academy Award in 2012. Obaid-Chinoy’s work has not only earned her international acclaim but has also shed light on important social issues in Pakistan. Lastly, Shanaz Ramzi is the founder of Starlinks PR & Events, a prominent public relations and event management company in Pakistan. With a background in journalism and a passion for storytelling, Ramzi built her business from the ground up. Her company has successfully organized numerous high-profile events and managed PR campaigns for various clients, demonstrating the potential for women in the male-dominated field of event management and PR.

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Trivialization of Women’s Mental Health in South Asian Countries

Leave a Comment / Articles, Mental Health, Women's Health /

In an era of increasing awareness about mental health, it is disheartening to observe that women’s mental health continues to be ignored and trivialized in many societies worldwide. The prevalent perception that women are naturally emotional beings, coupled with cultural norms that discourage open discussions about mental health, has led to the undermining of the real struggles women face. This article delves into the reasons behind the trivialization of women’s mental health, the erroneous notion of women being inherently emotional, and the stigma surrounding mental illness, particularly within South Asian communities. Misconceptions and Gender Bias A significant factor contributing to the trivialization of women’s mental health is the gender bias that still exists in many societies. Women are often regarded as emotional creatures by default, and their struggles are sometimes written off as mere mood swings or feminine sensitivity. This generalization perpetuates the idea that emotional distress is part and parcel of being a woman, discounting the possibility of a legitimate medical condition. This bias fails to recognize the complexities of mental health issues that women may face, such as anxiety disorders, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder. Image Source: Freepik.com Chemical Imbalance vs. Emotional Nature The notion that women’s emotional experiences are a result of their inherent nature rather than a potential chemical imbalance is both misleading and harmful. While it is true that hormonal fluctuations can impact emotions, it is essential to recognize that mental health disorders are rooted in intricate interactions within the brain. Dismissing women’s mental health struggles as ‘normal’ emotional behavior disregards the biological basis of mental illnesses that affect both genders. Stigma in South Asian Communities In many South Asian communities, the stigma associated with mental illness is particularly pronounced. There exists a perception that seeking psychological help is a sign of weakness, and families often prefer to keep such matters hidden due to concerns about societal reputation. This stigma is magnified for women, who are expected to fulfill traditional roles and adhere to societal norms. As a result, women in these communities often suffer in silence, fearing rejection or ostracization if their mental health struggles become known. Repression ≠ Strength Society’s inclination to associate repression with strength further exacerbates the problem. Women are often praised for their ability to endure suffering silently, perpetuating the idea that outward emotional expression is a sign of weakness. This notion discourages women from seeking help and encourages them to suppress their feelings, potentially leading to severe mental health consequences. True strength lies in acknowledging and addressing one’s struggles, not in suppressing them. Encouraging Open Dialogue To combat the trivialization of women’s mental health, it is crucial to foster open and honest conversations about mental well-being. Education plays a pivotal role in dispelling myths and promoting understanding. Schools, workplaces, and communities should provide platforms for discussing mental health openly, thus dismantling the barriers that prevent women from seeking help. Image Source: Freepik.com Promoting Gender-Neutral Mental Health Care Mental health care must be gender-neutral, focusing on individual experiences rather than conforming to stereotypes. It is imperative to acknowledge that men and women alike can experience mental health challenges, each influenced by a unique set of circumstances. Tailored treatments and support systems that address the specific needs of women can contribute to breaking down the barriers of trivialization. The trivialization of women’s mental health is a grave concern that stems from deeply ingrained biases, stereotypes, and societal expectations. Recognizing that mental health disorders are not exclusive to any gender and encouraging open conversations can lead to the destigmatization of mental health struggles. To truly empower women, we must collectively work towards dismantling the harmful narratives that undermine their mental well-being.

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Why Pakistani Women Hesitate to Seek Legal Help in Challenging Situations

Leave a Comment / Articles, Legal /

In Pakistan, a country rich in culture and tradition, a deep-rooted stigma surrounds seeking legal help, particularly for women facing issues such as spousal abuse, divorce, or familial abuse. While progress has been made in recent years to address gender inequality and empower women, many still hesitate to step forward and seek legal assistance in situations that demand it. This article delves into the multifaceted reasons behind this hesitance, highlighting the societal norms, emotional bonds, and financial constraints that often trap women in cycles of silence and suffering. The Stigma Surrounding Seeking Help One of the central barriers preventing Pakistani women from seeking legal help is the social stigma associated with openly addressing sensitive issues within the family unit. Societal norms dictate that family matters should be resolved internally, preserving the facade of a harmonious and united front to the outside world. Seeking legal intervention is often viewed as an admission of failure, a breach of familial privacy, and a threat to the honor and reputation of the family. This stigma is magnified when it comes to matters like spousal abuse or divorce. Women are discouraged from airing their grievances in public due to fear of ostracism, humiliation, and societal judgment. This discourages them from seeking legal help, perpetuating their suffering in silence. Image Source: Freepik.com Submissive Role and Emotional Bonds Pakistani women have historically been nurtured to embrace a submissive role within the family, with their primary identity often tied to being a wife, daughter, or mother. This conditioning fosters a belief that they must endure suffering to keep family dynamics stable. Consequently, women may internalize abuse as a norm and lack the self-esteem and agency to seek legal remedies. Moreover, emotional bonds often entrap women in abusive situations. Fear of the consequences on children, a sense of duty to maintain the family unit, and emotional dependence on the spouse are powerful factors that hinder women from taking steps towards seeking help. This emotional entanglement makes it incredibly challenging for women to make the decision to break free from abusive relationships and pursue legal assistance. Financial Restraints and Lack of Autonomy In many cases, Pakistani women are financially dependent on their spouses or families, further limiting their ability to seek legal help independently. Lack of financial autonomy leaves women with limited options and forces them to remain in detrimental situations due to economic insecurities. This financial dependence perpetuates a cycle of helplessness, trapping women in abusive environments even when they wish to leave. The Lack of Legal Awareness and Accessibility Another critical factor contributing to women’s reluctance to seek legal help is the lack of awareness about their legal rights and the limited accessibility to legal resources. Many women are unaware of the legal protections available to them in cases of abuse or divorce. Furthermore, the legal system’s complexity and the lengthy litigation processes can be overwhelming, deterring women from pursuing legal remedies. Image Source: Daaman Breaking the Chains: Empowerment through Education and Support To address the deeply ingrained hesitance of Pakistani women to seek legal help in situations of spousal abuse, divorce, or familial abuse, comprehensive efforts are needed. Empowering women through education and awareness about their legal rights is crucial. Community workshops, media campaigns, and accessible legal clinics can play a significant role in disseminating information and debunking myths surrounding seeking legal help. Furthermore, providing emotional and psychological support is essential for women considering legal action. Support networks comprising counselors, social workers, and survivors of similar situations can help women navigate the emotional turmoil and build the courage to take the step towards seeking help. The stigma around seeking legal help in challenging situations such as spousal abuse, divorce, or familial abuse remains a significant barrier for Pakistani women. The societal norms that prioritize family honor over individual well-being, coupled with emotional bonds and financial restraints, contribute to this hesitance. Empowering women through education, awareness, and support systems is crucial to breaking free from the chains of silence and suffering. Only through collective efforts can Pakistani women be encouraged to assert their rights, seek legal assistance, and pave the way towards a more equitable society.

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