We have a feeling that women are tired of reading the many endless lists of things they’re at risk of and need to be aware of. We get that, but be ready for another one of those lists (sorry, not sorry, we care about your health). This one focuses on common reproductive health issues. This is important because most young women aren’t aware that there’s more to reproductive health than STDs, menstrual health and cervical cancer.
Uterine cancer
We know the word “cancer” can give people immediate chest pain. But there’s no need for alarm. Uterine cancer develops in the inner lining of the uterus but it only becomes dangerous when it spreads. When caught early, it can easily be treated. This is why it’s important to do regular checks with an ob-gyn.
Interstitial cystitis
The frustrating thing about this bladder condition is that you can pee as often as 40-60 times a day in severe cases (it’s crazy, we know). Imagine trying to work or even eat and you’re running to the toilet every five seconds. It’s enough to shed tears. But thankfully there are treatments that can help make life easier.
Endometriosis
Having endometriosis is basically experiencing menstruation outside your uterus. Confused? Wait, we’ll explain. With endometriosis, a tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus. So just like the lining of the uterus during menstruation, this tissue breaks down and bleeds at the end of the cycle. The only difference is the blood has nowhere to go. (You’re welcome for that biology lesson). This can cause a lot of pain before and during menstruation. But thanks to glorious science, there are solutions to make the pain go away.
Uterine Fibroids
Now, these are tumours in the uterus. They’re non-cancerous, but abeg it’s still important to get them checked. Also, some fibroid symptoms are almost similar to endometriosis, which is why it’s important to be aware and once again, get checked. We shall continue to preach the gospel of visiting hospitals or clinics for checkups.
Vulvar cancer
Vulvar cancer occurs on the skin that surrounds the vagina. It’s very hard to miss it because it forms a lump. Just like uterine cancer, it can be treated if discovered early.
HPV
Human Papillomavirus is a common STI that isn’t talked about enough in Nigeria. Besides the name, the weird thing about HPV is that people can develop symptoms years after having sex with someone who has the virus. Meaning, they can have it for years and not know (God abeg). Thankfully, there’s an HPV vaccine that can be taken to prevent getting it. Although it’s not exactly recommended for people above the age of 26. For people like this, another way to prevent it is by having protected sex.
Primary Ovarian Insufficiency (POI)
Women with POI don’t release eggs regularly, and don’t often realise they have the condition until they’re trying to get pregnant or stop using hormonal birth control.
Women with thi condition struggle to get pregnant, but there are many options available to help those who want to.
The Village Health Worker programme, launched by Girl Child Concerns is improving access to women’s health care through village health workers in Borno state.
They identified and trained a dedicated group of young women as village health workers, with support from the Borno State Government. The stories of these young women are being told in this full documentary.
