International Women’s Health Day: How to Quiet Your Fears and #VoiceYourPain

Saddled with sore breasts, painful intercourse or pregnancy complications? Here’s why it’s okay to speak out
You’re about to step into a major meeting—with presentation ready, notes handy and a make-or-break monologue revised to perfection. Only, while your mind is raring to go, your body’s struggling to keep up, signalling you to slow down.

This is a normal day in the life of many women—real pain masked by unreal charades of normalcy. From vaginal bleeding, polycystic ovaries, irregular or painful periods, sore breasts and painful intercourse, to more serious conditions like breast or ovarian cancer, high-risk pregnancy, eating disorders, and depression, women across India are affected by several health risks. Often, pain can be a symptom of a more serious, deeper rooted condition that deserves immediate attention. And yet, many women hesitate to voice their problems, carefully camouflaging them in their daily routine.

If you’ve been dealing with physical or psychological setbacks, it’s a good idea to have yourself assessed by a medical professional. By voicing your pain and seeking help early, you can mitigate potential health risks and build yourself a pathway to wellness.

Stay abreast of health problems
The key to securing your health lies in educating yourself about possible genetic and environmental health problems. Learning about risk factors for serious health issues can help you spot signs early and minimise your risk.

Learn to be proactive
Passing symptoms off as normal can result in long-term conditions remaining undiagnosed, and sometimes, even regressing. It’s important to note that gynaecological problems often present the same initial symptoms as general health disorders. Any marked changes in mood, behaviour, appearance or weight can be a sign that something’s not right. If you do notice symptoms, seek a consultation with a medical professional to get a view of potential underlying health problems.

Adopt coping mechanisms
Coming to terms with a long-term health condition can be challenging and isolating, and a support system can raise you up in the face of trial. Sharing your feelings with someone you trust - perhaps a close friend or family member—can be a wonderful thing. If you feel you need additional support, consider voicing your fears and frustrations to a professional counsellor to help you find constructive channels for your emotions.

Seek early treatment
Women’s health conditions can vary in nature - from acute to chronic. While short-term conditions may be treated with basic lifestyle adjustments, long-term problems may require more sustained efforts in the form of dietary overhauls, regular exercise, medical treatments and sometimes, surgical interventions.

Getting the right support at the right time is crucial to safeguarding your body against health risks. At Rainbow Hospitals, our comprehensive suite of fertility, maternity and gynaecology care services encompasses women at every age and stage of life - from menarche to menopause. This International Women’s Health Day, ask yourself what’s stopping you from vocalising your pain - and remind yourself that it’s never too late to find your voice.

For more information, book a consultation with a gynecologist near you.