Menarche to menopause – health risks for women in India

Hey there, wonderful ladies!

Life can get pretty hectic, juggling work, personal goals, and everything in between. We get it – you’re constantly on the go, conquering every task life throws your way. But in the midst of all this running around, it’s easy to forget to prioritize your own well-being.

Here’s a friendly reminder: take a moment for yourself! Your health matters.

Let’s talk about some health risks everyone should be aware of throughout life, from those teenage years filled with drama and crushes to the adventure of navigating through motherhood and even hitting the menopause milestone, women face health challenges at every stage of their life. Knowing about them prepares you to take early action against these challenges and that’s the best way to beat them.

Adolescence and Teenage Years
Anaemia – A common problem in Indian teenage girls is low iron. This can affect growth and development. If you are tired, exhausted and low on energy, a quick anaemia test will tell you. Eating well balanced diet of green vegetable and iron rich food like dates, spinach and chana will ensure that you never develop anaemia. It can affect your studies, your activity and in general your zest.

Period problems – Painful periods is one of the most common causes of school absenteeism. Visiting a doctor and seeking help is not a bad idea if those hot water bags don’t help. Irregular periods are also a cause for concern in this age. Many times, they do regularise with time, but medical help is always advisable.

Unwanted pregnancies – The influence of social media on young people’s behaviors, including sexual health decisions, is increasingly recognized globally. Social media platforms or the influence of peer norms may play a role in shaping adolescents’ attitudes towards sex and pregnancy. Medical advice is much better than peer advice.

Early Marriage and Pregnancy: Girls in India are often married off early, leading to a higher risk of pregnancy-related complications. If you’ve been one of the fortunate ones to get married at an age where you are mentally and physically ready for a child, please help those around you who aren’t.

Childbearing Years
Low calcium: Imbalanced diets, fad diets to stay thin have an alarming fall out-calcium deficiency. Calcium is not just a strong bones promise, Calcium is needed for prevention of hypertensive disorders during pregnancy, maintaining proper blood pressure levels, and supporting the skeletal development of the fetus. Low dietary calcium intake during midpregnancy not only affects the immediate health of the mother and child but also has long-term health implications. Low calcium can lead to the development of hypertension within 10 years after pregnancy. Eat a calcium rich diet, you are going to need it.
(Egeland et al., 2017)

Anaemia : Anaemia is a common problem in this age too. It is never taken too seriously till such time it seriously starts affecting energy levels and concentration. This is the most productive time of your life. You need to be at your best, physically and mentally. Low iron levels can be an impediment.

Domestic Violence: Physical spousal violence is a significant health problem for women in India, affecting their physical and mental health. Women who experience domestic violence during pregnancy are at higher risk of perinatal and neonatal mortality (Jeyaseelan et al., 2007).

Middle age
Cardiovascular Diseases (CVD): Urban middle-aged women in India have a greater prevalence of CVD risk factors, including obesity, hypertension, and diabetes, compared to their rural counterparts. Eat well, exercise and keep stress in check. Regular health check-ups are most important since they warn you well in advance when treatment becomes easier.
(Pandey et al., 2013)(Pandey et al., 2013).

Cancers: This is the best time to screen yourself for breast cancer and cervical cancer, especially if you have a family history.

Menopausal Stage
Cardiovascular: The transition to menopause brings a plethora of health issues, including cardiovascular diseases and osteoporosis. Women who experience premature menopause are at an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases, highlighting the need for timely lifestyle modifications. 50s is the best time for you to enjoy your life with children becoming independent and reducing family responsibilities. Take charge of your health, go for regular check-ups and spend good time on improving your lifestyle if you haven’t been doing that.
(Ahuja, 2016)

Psychosocial Impact: Menopause can also have a significant psychosocial impact on women, affecting their quality of life and mental health. Awareness and counselling on menopausal health are essential
(Kar & Roy, 2017).

Knowing the health risks at each stage is the first step to empowering yourself to lead healthier, more fulfilled lives. Here’s to strong, resilient, and empowered women everywhere—because health matters, shaping our journey towards vitality and strength with every step we take. 🌸💪 #HealthFirst