REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH AND HIV PREVENTION By Dr Samira Shaikh, Head-OHC Department, Jayaben Mody Multispeciality Hospital.
Female reproductive health encompasses the physical, mental, and social well-being in all matters related to the female reproductive system. It includes menstruation, fertility, contraception, pregnancy, and menopause Female reproductive health
Menstrual Health Menstrual Cycle : Typical cycle lasts 21-35 days; menstruation lasts 2-7 days. Menstrual Disorders : Examples include dysmenorrhea (painful periods), amenorrhea (absence of periods), and menorrhagia (heavy bleeding). Menstrual Hygiene : Importance of using sanitary products properly and maintaining hygiene to prevent infections.
Fertility and Contraception Fertility : Understanding ovulation, signs of fertility, and factors affecting fertility such as age, lifestyle, and health conditions. Contraceptive Methods : Overview of options like hormonal pills, IUDs, condoms, and natural methods. Discuss effectiveness and potential side effects. Infertility : Common causes, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), endometriosis, and lifestyle factors.
Sexual Health Sexual Function and Disorders : Includes libido, arousal disorders, and sexual pain. Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) : Prevention, symptoms, and treatments for common STIs like chlamydia, gonorrhea, and HPV. Consent and Communication : Importance of mutual consent and open communication in sexual relationships.
Menopause and Perimenopause Menopause : Typically occurs between ages 45-55; cessation of menstruation and decline in reproductive hormones. Symptoms : Hot flashes, night sweats, mood changes, and vaginal dryness. Management : Lifestyle adjustments, hormone replacement therapy (HRT), and non-hormonal treatments.
Reproductive Health Screenings Pap Smears : Regular screenings to detect cervical cancer and pre-cancerous conditions. Mammograms : Recommended for early detection of breast cancer. Bone Density Tests : Important for assessing bone health, especially post-menopause.
Mental and Emotional Well-being Impact of Hormones : How hormonal changes can affect mood and mental health. Support Systems : Importance of psychological support and counseling, especially during significant life changes like pregnancy and menopause.
WHAT IS HIV? HIV stands for Human Immunodeficiency Virus. It attacks the body’s immune system, specifically the CD4 cells (T cells). Difference Between HIV and AIDS HIV: Virus that can lead to AIDS if untreated. AIDS: Advanced stage of HIV infection with severe immune system damage.
Modes of HIV Transmission Sexual Contact Unprotected vaginal, anal, or oral sex with an infected person. The role of bodily fluids (semen, vaginal fluids, blood). Needle Sharing Risk of HIV through shared or contaminated needles. Mother-to-Child Transmission During pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding. Blood Transfusions Risk from contaminated blood products (less common due to screening).
Late stage of HIV
Risk Factors for Young Women Higher Vulnerability Biological factors: Increased susceptibility of vaginal tissues. Social and behavioral factors: Unprotected sex, multiple partners. Importance of Awareness Understanding how behaviors and practices can impact risk.
Prevention Methods Safe Sexual Practices Condoms: Importance of using male or female condoms correctly. Dental Dams: For safer oral sex. Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis ( PrEP ) What is PrEP : A daily pill that reduces the risk of HIV infection. Eligibility and effectiveness. Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) What is PEP: Emergency medication to prevent infection after possible exposure. Importance of starting within 72 hours of exposure. Regular Testing The importance of routine HIV testing for sexually active individuals. Confidential and accessible testing options.
Myth-Busting Myth: HIV is only transmitted through sexual contact . Fact : HIV can also be transmitted through needle sharing and from mother to child. Myth: You can tell if someone has HIV by looking at them. Fact : HIV can be present without visible symptoms . Myth: HIV can be transmitted through casual contact . Fact: HIV is not spread through hugging, shaking hands, or sharing food.
Building Healthy Relationships Communication Importance of discussing sexual health and testing with partners. Setting Boundaries How to assertively set boundaries and negotiate safer sex practices. Support Systems Role of friends, family, and healthcare providers in maintaining sexual health.
Personal Safety and Empowerment Taking Control of Your Health Importance of proactive health management and regular check-ups. Empowering Yourself Educating yourself and others about HIV and prevention. Advocating for safe practices and seeking help when needed.