Tuhina Sahoo

Bhubaneswar, May 28: Maintenance of menstrual hygiene, the conduct of cervical cancer screening test( pap smear test) and breast examination were stressed on the occasion of International Day of Women’s Health being celebrated today.

The special day is being celebrated on May 28 since the year 1987 for the sexual and reproductive rights of females which are an indivisible part of our human rights. Women have unique health issues including pregnancy, menopause, and conditions of the female organs. Women can have a healthy pregnancy by getting early and regular prenatal care. They should also get recommended breast cancer, cervical cancer, and bone density screenings.

On this International Day of Women’s Health, Prameya English interviewed women doctors of Sum Ultimate Medicare. Laying stress on the maintenance of menstrual hygiene, Dr Chimayee Kar of the Sum Ultimate Medicare said, ” The use of unsanitary clothes during periods gives rise to genital infections and long-standing infection gives rise to more life-threatening diseases like cervical cancer. Problems may be trivial like itching in private parts, or abnormal vaginal discharge. Long-standing infection also will lead to pelvic inflammation disease-causing chronic pelvic pain. “

“It’s very important to maintain genital hygiene. Changing pads regularly is mandatory and using menstrual cups is also advisable as long as proper sterilization is used”, advised Dr Kar.

Greeting all the women on the occasion of the women’s healthcare day,Dr. Sangita Mishra said, “Women, you are the essence of life, so do care of yourself. I will be talking about two things- every woman should do cervical cancer screening test also known as Pap smear and breast examination.  Pap testing must be done every three years for women ages 21 to 30. Women aged 30 and above can consider Pap testing every five years if the procedure is combined with testing for HPV. “

“We have several packages here at Sum Ultimate Medicare, you can do the test here. “, suggested Dr Mishra.