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Dimapur, Dec. 9 (EMN): As part of the ongoing 16-day of activism against gender-based violence, the North East Network (NEN) Nagaland, in collaboration with Family Planning Association India (FPAI) Nagaland Branch and SEWA Kohima, organised a seminar on "Women reproductive health and rights" on December 8.
An update from NEN stated that the seminar was organised to create awareness on issue surrounding women’s reproductive health and rights and to identify such health concerns and assist them in seeking the help they need.
It stated that the counsellor of FPAI Nagaland Branch, Ville Rhetso, has explained various women's reproductive systems. Mentioning the cultural sensitivity related to reproductive health which starts with the natural and biological process of menstruation in a girl’s life, she urged the women to consider menstruation as a normal topic and discuss freely at home in order to solve many other gynae-related health issues.
Briefing on other topics such as pregnancy and abortion, she cited how a girl or woman suffers both physically and mentally when she has an unintended pregnancy. In this regard, she informed them about MTP Act and choices to help her in decision making. Besides, she also shared issues related with infertility, STI and HIV.
Rhetso also illustrated on contraception and it's method for better quality life and healthy family and as a way to prevent unintended pregnancies as well as various sexually transmitted diseases. Highlighting the signs and symptoms of breast cancer and cervical cancer, she emphasised on screening and timely seeking healthcare services as most of the health issues are preventable with proper care and early diagnosis.
On the topic of gender-based violence, she mentioned the health consequences as a result of violence against women and urged the women to be aware and help each other instead of judging and stigmatising the victim. She further remarked that violation of the sexual and reproductive rights including the right to make decision for one's own body is also a violation against women.
Also speaking at the seminar, Akangkokla Namo illustrated about menstrual related health problems including pre-menstrual syndrome (PMS). She also explained various menstrual hygiene management (MHM) and stressed on proper diet during menstrual period.
She further urged the participants to create a friendly environment at home where all the family members are free to discuss about menstruation and not considering it as shameful and dirty.