Making #WomensHealth a Priority

On 15th March, Michelle Frank @DrMichelleF conducted a tweetchat on Making Women’s Health a Priority

The chat began by asking the audience about the possible taboos that prevent women from accessing medical care. The audience suggested that women are expected to portray a hallmark of strong womanhood and motherhood, they are forced to adjust and lastly the embarrassment of showcasing themselves and their pains to a medical practitioner might be the possible reasons for declining women health. Also, mental health and gynecological issues are kept hush to avoid “spoiling their reputation” in society. The next discussion was about how despite of having the HPV vaccine, India still leads in cases of cervical cancer. Various issues regarding cost of the vaccine, lack of awareness, no mandate laws and overall taboo regarding vaginal health might be the reasons for low rate of immunization. The discussion continued by elaborating on various stereotypes encountered by women concerning their sexuality. The next important question was how to reduce stigma among young girls relating to the functions of their body. The audience suggested measures like generating awareness right from the school level, mothers being vocal during puberty and not treating such topics as taboo can make a difference.  The chat ended by asking the audience ways to improve access of medical care in women.

A tweetchat by Michelle!

https://wakelet.com/wake/9d8b8b07-bc2e-4fa3-b364-35b572cdcefe