WHO

MONDAY HEALTH BURST ON PREVENTING UTIs: WHY TOILET HYGIENE MATTERS

Leave a Comment / Monday Health Burst, WHO / cfhinitiative

Preventing urinary tract infections (UTIs) begins with understanding the importance of toilet hygiene. UTIs, a common health issue affecting millions globally, occur when harmful bacteria enter the urinary system, causing discomfort, pain, and potentially severe complications like kidney infections. Poor toilet hygiene is a leading cause of UTIs, as it can introduce bacteria, such as Escherichia coli (E. coli), from the digestive tract into the urinary system. Practices like improper wiping or neglecting to wash hands after using the restroom significantly increase the risk of infection.

To reduce the likelihood of UTIs, it’s essential to adopt proper hygiene practices. Wiping from front to back prevents bacteria from the anal area from reaching the urethra, while thorough handwashing eliminates germs that could spread to other surfaces or the body. Keeping the genital area clean and dry is equally important since damp environments encourage bacterial growth. Regularly cleaning toilets, whether at home or in public spaces, also minimizes exposure to harmful bacteria. Avoiding the habit of holding urine is crucial, as regular urination flushes out bacteria, preventing them from multiplying.

Staying hydrated is another vital aspect of UTI prevention. Drinking plenty of water helps dilute urine and flush out bacteria, promoting frequent urination that naturally cleanses the urinary tract. This practice, combined with good hygiene, creates a strong defense against infections.

Women, due to their shorter urethras, are more prone to UTIs, making toilet hygiene even more critical. Specific measures, such as avoiding harsh soaps and wearing breathable cotton underwear, help reduce irritation and bacterial growth.

In 2020, CFHI commemorated World Toilet Day in Saburi Community, Abuja, where over 55 community members were sensitized on the dangers of open defecation, the importance of proper hygiene practices, the need to promote climate action, and the benefits of embracing effective waste disposal methods. This impactful initiative highlighted CFHI’s dedication to improving sanitation, fostering healthier living conditions, and driving environmental sustainability within the community.

Toilet hygiene, when paired with good hydration and regular urination habits, serves as a powerful tool in preventing UTIs and promoting overall urinary tract health. By maintaining these simple yet effective practices, individuals can protect their health and avoid the discomfort of infections. Prevention is always better than cure, and prioritizing hygiene is a step toward long-term well-being.

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SPEAK WEDNESDAY ON IMPACT OF DOMESTIC VIOLENCE ON CHILDREN’S MENTAL HEALTH AND DEVELOPMENT

Leave a Comment / Speak Wednesday, WHO / cfhinitiative

Domestic violence is a shadow that reaches far beyond the immediate victims. When violence seeps into a home, it affects everyone, especially children, who often become silent witnesses to trauma and suffering. The impact of domestic violence on children’s mental health and development is a pressing concern that many may overlook. The psychological toll of exposure to violence in childhood can have lasting effects on a child’s mental well-being, social skills, and overall development.

The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that children exposed to violence are at greater risk of developing mental health disorders like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and anxiety, sometimes beginning as early as in childhood and potentially lasting a lifetime. This exposure can lead to significant emotional turmoil, with many children experiencing constant fear, self-doubt, and an inability to trust, making it difficult for them to form stable, healthy relationships later in life

The stress and trauma associated with domestic violence can impair a child’s cognitive development, impacting their ability to concentrate, learn, and socialize. Studies from the National Institute of Mental Health show that children growing up in violent households are more likely to struggle academically and have difficulty processing emotions and handling conflict in constructive ways. This may manifest in behavioural issues, aggressive responses, or social withdrawal.

Additionally, these children are at higher risk of substance abuse and other forms of self-destructive behaviour as they attempt to cope with unresolved trauma. ~ American Psychological Association.

Breaking the cycle of domestic violence requires comprehensive approaches that involve not only supporting survivors but also recognizing and addressing the needs of children affected by this trauma. Educational programs that promote awareness, early intervention efforts, and accessible counselling services for children are essential to helping young people recover and build healthy lives. By investing in resources that support children’s mental health, communities can help mitigate the impacts of domestic violence on future generations. Through collective efforts, we can create safe environments that foster resilience and healing, ensuring a brighter, healthier future for all children.

Speak Wednesday is an initiative of CFHI to address issues around gender-based violence and gender bias.

#SpeakWednesday #EndDomesticViolence #ProtectOurChildren #BreakTheCycle #SupportMentalHealth #FutureWithoutViolence

References

World Health Organization. (2021). Violence against children. Retrieved from WHO.
National Institute of Mental Health. (2020). Children’s exposure to violence and mental health. Retrieved from NIMH.
American Psychological Association. (2020). Impact of childhood trauma on mental health. Retrieved from APA.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2021). Childhood trauma and public health. Retrieved from CDC.
(2022). Supporting children affected by domestic violence. Retrieved from UNICEF.

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SPEAK WEDNESDASY ON PROTECTING OUR FUTURE: COMBATING GENDER-BASED VIOLENCE IN CHILDHOOD AND ADOLESCENCE

Leave a Comment / Gender Based Violence, Speak Wednesday, WHO / cfhinitiative

Gender-based violence (GBV) leaves lifelong scars, particularly when it affects young people. Children and adolescents worldwide experience violence in environments meant to be safe—homes, schools, and communities. Addressing this problem early in life is essential, as GBV in childhood not only affects immediate well-being but also shapes a young person’s future.

Adolescent girls are especially vulnerable to forms of GBV like early marriage and sexual violence. The World Health Organization (WHO) highlights that one in four girls will experience sexual violence before reaching adulthood, often in environments where cultural norms uphold gender inequalities and prioritize male dominance. UNICEF adds that boys also experience GBV in unique ways, facing pressures to adopt aggressive behaviour in alignment with rigid views of masculinity. These pressures often lead boys to both experience and perpetuate violence later in life, continuing a cycle that affects future generations.

Protecting children from GBV is an ongoing effort that requires commitment from everyone—parents, educators, community leaders, and policymakers. Addressing gender-based violence (GBV) in children and adolescents requires a combination of education, community support, and legal protections. Education in schools and communities about respect, equality, and personal rights is crucial. By raising awareness on GBV prevention and empowering young people to understand their rights, communities can help prevent violence before it begins. Together, we can build a future where young people are free to grow up in safety and pursue their potential. Ending GBV among youth is not just about safety; it’s about creating a foundation of respect and equality that will shape the generations to come.

Speak Wednesday is an initiative of CFHI to address issues around gender-based violence and gender bias.

#SpeakWednesday #EndChildViolence #ProtectOurFuture #StopGBV #YouthSafety #BreakTheCycle #GenderEquality ##GenderJustice

References

World Health Organization (WHO). Preventing Violence Against Children and Adolescents, WHO, 2023
UNICEF. Safe to Learn: Protecting Children in Schools, UNICEF, 2023
UNICEF Nigeria. Child Protection Programs and Gender-Based Violence, UNICEF Nigeria, 2023

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SPEAK WEDNESDAY ON BREAKING THE CYCLE: HOW POVERTY FUELS GENDER-BASED VIOLENCE

Leave a Comment / Gender Based Violence, Speak Wednesday, WHO / cfhinitiative

In communities all over the world, the cycle of poverty and violence against women and girls has persisted for generations. Imagine a young girl growing up in a neighbourhood where money is tight, education is scarce, and opportunities are limited. She learns early that life is about survival, not dreams, and violence is part of her reality. Gender-based violence is an ugly reality that millions face daily, but poverty often goes unseen as the engine driving much of it.

Poverty fuels gender-based violence in numerous ways. For instance, economic dependence on a partner often leads women to stay in abusive relationships they might otherwise leave if they had the financial means to support themselves and their children. According to the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), financial instability is a key driver that keeps women in cycles of dependency, as their limited options make it difficult to leave even dangerous situations. When only one partner controls finances, it’s easier for abusive patterns to take hold, creating an environment where the abused partner feels trapped.

The lack of support systems means that leaving a dangerous relationship could mean facing hunger and homelessness. Without an education or job skills, the idea of living independently seems impossible. This economic dependence creates a prison for many women, making them feel that they have no choice but to stay, even when they are in physical or emotional danger.

Beyond dependence, financial stress and scarcity can lead to heightened domestic tensions. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), poverty creates chronic stress, which often escalates into conflict and even violence within homes. Recent findings from the WHO highlights that in recent years, economic instability exacerbated by inflation, post-pandemic recovery issues, and widespread financial crises, has intensified this issue, particularly in impoverished regions. As economic conditions worsen, the vulnerabilities of women in abusive situations grow, as many find it even harder to escape due to financial dependencies.

Ultimately, addressing gender-based violence in the context of poverty is not only a matter of justice for women and girls but a necessity for society. When communities tolerate violence, they also waste the potential of women, who could otherwise contribute to economic and social development.

By addressing root causes through education, economic empowerment, legal protections, and community programs, we take steps to end the cycle of violence that keeps women trapped in poverty.

Speak Wednesday is an initiative of CFHI to address issues around gender-based violence and gender bias.

#SpeakWednesday # #EndGBV #GenderEquality #BreakTheCycle #PovertyAndViolence #WomenEmpowerment #EconomicEmpowerment

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MONDAY HEALTH BURST ON THE IMPORTANCE OF HPV VACCINE IN CERVICAL CANCER PREVENGTION FOR GIRLS

Cancer, Monday Health Burst, WHO / cfhinitiative

Cervical cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths among women globally, with the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) being the primary cause. Fortunately, advances in medical science have made cervical cancer largely preventable through the HPV vaccine. This vaccine plays a critical role in safeguarding girls’ health by preventing HPV infections, which can lead to cervical cancer and other related diseases.

HPV is a common virus, with more than 100 strains, out of which certain high-risk types like HPV-16 and HPV-18 are responsible for approximately 70% of cervical cancer cases. The virus is transmitted through skin-to-skin contact, primarily during sexual activity. Most HPV infections resolve on their own, but persistent infections with high-risk strains can cause abnormal changes in the cells of the cervix, eventually leading to cervical cancer.

Benefits of the HPV Vaccine for Girls

Preventing Cervical Cancer: The primary benefit of the HPV vaccine is its ability to prevent cervical cancer. By protecting against the high-risk HPV strains, the vaccine dramatically reduces the incidence of precancerous cervical lesions and, over time, cervical cancer itself. Countries that have achieved high vaccination coverage have observed declines of 73–85% in vaccine-type HPV prevalence, and declines of 41–57% in high grade lesions (cervical intraepithelial neoplasia, grade 2 or worse) among young women, less than 10 years after implementation of HPV vaccination.¹

Protection Against Other Cancers: In addition to cervical cancer, the HPV vaccine also provides protection against other cancers caused by HPV, including cancers of the vagina, vulva, and oropharynx (throat). This broad protection further underscores the importance of the vaccine in promoting long-term health for girls.

Reducing Healthcare Burden: By preventing cervical cancer, the HPV vaccine helps to reduce the overall healthcare burden. Fewer cases of cervical cancer mean fewer medical treatments, surgeries, and long-term care needs, benefiting both individual families and healthcare systems.

For the HPV vaccine to have its full impact, it is essential to ensure that all girls have access to it, regardless of their socioeconomic status or location.

Many low- and middle-income countries face challenges in providing widespread access to the vaccine, but initiatives by governments, global health organizations, and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) are working to close this gap.

In 2023, CFHI took part in a training for Civil Society Organizations focused on integrating the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine into Nigeria’s Expanded Program on Immunization (EPI) schedule. After the training, CFHI with support from the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA) led several weeks of intensive community dialogue, training of community workers, sensitization, and referral efforts to promote HPV vaccine uptake in the Kuduru Community, Abuja. These efforts reached around 4,000 individuals, resulting in the successful mobilization of 2,300 girls for HPV vaccination in the Kurudu ward.

The HPV vaccine is a powerful tool in the fight against cervical cancer, offering girls protection against the virus that causes most cervical cancer cases. By getting vaccinated early, girls can significantly reduce their risk of developing cervical cancer, as well as other HPV-related cancers. With widespread adoption of the vaccine, we can move closer to a future where cervical cancer is a preventable disease, ensuring that girls grow up healthy, empowered, and free from the threat of this life-threatening condition.

It is vital for families, communities, and healthcare providers to work together in promoting HPV vaccination and addressing any misconceptions. Visit the nearest healthcare facility or reach out to the National Primary Health Care Development Agency for more details on HPV vaccination.

Reference:

https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lancet/article/PIIS0140-6736(20)30068-4/fulltext

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MONDAY HEALTH BURST ON BREAST CANCER OVERVIEW-CAUSES AND SYMPTOMS

Monday Health Burst, WHO, World Breastfeeding Week / cfhinitiative

Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers affecting women worldwide, with significant impact on health, families, and communities.¹

Breast cancer occurs when cells in the breast tissue begin to grow uncontrollably, forming a tumor that can be felt as a lump or detected through imaging. While most breast cancers are invasive, meaning they have spread from the original ducts or lobules into surrounding breast tissue, there are also non-invasive types that remain confined to the ducts or lobules.

Causes and Risk Factors

The exact cause of breast cancer is not fully understood, but several risk factors have been identified. Approximately 5-10% of breast cancers are linked to inherited gene mutations, such as BRCA1 and BRCA2. Women with these mutations have a significantly higher risk of developing breast cancer.² Also, prolonged exposure to estrogen and progesterone, whether through early menstruation, late menopause, or hormone replacement therapy, can increase the risk of breast cancer. Additional risk factors are:

Age: The risk of breast cancer increases with age, with most cases diagnosed in women over 50.

Family History: Women with a close relative (mother, sister, daughter) who has had breast cancer are at higher risk.

Lifestyle Factors: Smoking, alcohol consumption, obesity, and lack of physical activity are modifiable risk factors that can contribute to breast cancer development.

Radiation Exposure: Women who have been exposed to radiation, particularly to the chest area, have an increased risk of breast cancer.

Early detection of breast cancer significantly improves the chances of successful treatment. However, symptoms can vary widely, and some women may not experience any noticeable symptoms at all. Common signs to watch for include:

Lump in the Breast or Underarm: A persistent lump or thickening in the breast or underarm area is often the first sign of breast cancer. Not all lumps are cancerous, but they should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.

Changes in Breast Shape or Size: Any unexplained change in the shape, size, or appearance of the breast should be taken seriously.

Nipple Changes: This includes inversion (pulling inward of the nipple), discharge (other than breast milk), or unusual scaling or redness.

Skin Changes: Dimpling, puckering, or redness of the skin over the breast, as well as any changes in texture, can be symptoms of breast cancer.

Breast Pain: While breast pain is more commonly associated with benign conditions, persistent or unexplained pain should be investigated.

Awareness of the causes and symptoms of breast cancer is key to early detection and successful treatment. Regular self-examinations, clinical breast exams, and mammograms are essential tools for catching breast cancer early. If you notice any changes in your breast, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider promptly. Understanding your risk factors and leading a healthy lifestyle can also help reduce the risk of developing breast cancer.

References

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OVERVIEW OF HEPATITIS B; CAUSES, TRANSMISSION AND SYMPTOMS

#ViralHepatitis, Monday Health Burst, WHO / cfhinitiative

Hepatitis B is a viral infection that attacks the liver and can cause both acute and chronic disease. The hepatitis B virus is highly infectious and can survive outside the body for at least seven days, maintaining its ability to infect. Despite the availability of effective vaccines, hepatitis B remains a major public health challenge.

According to WHO estimates, 254 million people were living with chronic hepatitis B infection in 2022, with 1.2 million new infections occurring annually.¹

Hepatitis B is primarily transmitted through contact with infectious body fluids, such as blood, semen, and vaginal fluids. Common routes of transmission include:

Mother to Child: The most common mode of transmission globally. If a mother is infected with HBV, the virus can be transmitted to the baby during childbirth.
Sexual Contact: Unprotected sex with an infected partner can lead to transmission of the virus.
Sharing Needles: Using contaminated needles or syringes, especially among intravenous drug users, is a significant risk factor.
Blood Transfusions and Medical Procedures: Receiving blood products or undergoing medical procedures with non-sterile equipment can lead to infection.
Household Transmission: Sharing personal items like razors or toothbrushes with an infected person can also spread the virus.

The symptoms of hepatitis B can vary from mild to severe and typically appear 1 to 4 months after exposure to the virus. They include:

Fatigue
Fever
Loss of appetite
Nausea and vomiting
Abdominal pain, particularly near the liver
Dark urine
Clay-colored stools
Joint pain
Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)

In many cases, especially in children, hepatitis B may be asymptomatic, meaning the infected person shows no symptoms.

Over the past five years, CFHI’s hepatitis vaccination campaigns have reached over 5,000 individuals in Nigeria. CFHI joined the global VH Elimination efforts during the 2018 World Hepatitis Day (WHD) to ‘find the missing million.’ In Obi, Nasarawa state, a community with a high prevalence of Hepatitis B and C infections, over 150 people were tested for Hepatitis B and C, and more than 200 individuals received education on viral hepatitis. Also in 2022, CFHI collaborated with Kagini Primary Health Care Centre to commemorate World Hepatitis Day, 2022. Over 100 people were reached and educated about hepatitis and out of those tested, 95 were negative and 5 were positive.

Hepatitis B is a preventable but potentially life-threatening liver infection. Understanding its transmission routes, recognizing symptoms early, and practicing preventive measures are crucial in managing and reducing the spread of hepatitis B. Vaccination remains the most effective tool in preventing HBV infection.

Reference:

https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/hepatitis-b

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MONDAY HEALTH BURST ON HEALTH IMPLICATIONS OF TOBACCO

Drug Abuse, Monday Health Burst, WHO / cfhinitiative

Tobacco use remains one of the leading causes of preventable disease and death worldwide. Despite extensive public health campaigns and increasing awareness, millions of people continue to use tobacco in various forms, exposing themselves to numerous health risks.¹ Some of the health implications include;

Cardiovascular Disease

Tobacco use is a significant risk factor for cardiovascular diseases (CVD), including heart attacks, strokes, and peripheral artery disease. Nicotine, the addictive component of tobacco, raises blood pressure and heart rate, putting extra strain on the heart. Additionally, carbon monoxide from cigarette smoke reduces the blood’s oxygen-carrying capacity, further exacerbating the risk of heart disease. Smokers are 2 to 4 times more likely to develop heart disease than non-smokers.²

Respiratory Disorders

The respiratory system is directly exposed to the harmful effects of tobacco smoke, leading to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), emphysema, and chronic bronchitis. The tar and chemicals in tobacco smoke damage the airways and alveoli, causing inflammation, reduced lung function, and chronic respiratory symptoms. Long-term smokers often experience breathlessness, persistent coughing, and increased susceptibility to respiratory infections.

Cancer

Tobacco use is the leading cause of cancer and cancer-related deaths. It is responsible for approximately 85% of lung cancer cases, the deadliest form of cancer.³ Beyond lung cancer, tobacco use is also linked to cancers of the mouth, throat, esophagus, pancreas, bladder, kidney, cervix, and stomach. The carcinogens in tobacco smoke cause mutations in DNA, leading to uncontrolled cell growth and tumor development.

Impact on Oral Health

Tobacco use significantly affects oral health, causing gum disease, tooth loss, and oral cancers. Smokers are more prone to periodontal disease, which can lead to tooth loss if untreated. The chemicals in tobacco also reduce the blood flow to the gums, impairing healing and making the mouth more susceptible to infections.

Reproductive Health Issues

Tobacco use can adversely affect reproductive health in both men and women. In women, it increases the risk of infertility, complications during pregnancy, and adverse outcomes such as preterm birth, low birth weight, and stillbirth. Men who smoke may experience reduced sperm quality, erectile dysfunction, and decreased fertility.

Secondhand Smoke

The dangers of tobacco are not limited to users themselves. Secondhand smoke, which is the smoke exhaled by smokers and the smoke from the burning end of a cigarette, is a serious health hazard. Non-smokers exposed to secondhand smoke are at increased risk of heart disease, respiratory infections, and cancer. Children exposed to secondhand smoke are particularly vulnerable, experiencing higher rates of asthma, sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), and ear infections. According to the World Health Organization, tobacco kills more than 8 million people per year, including an estimated 1.3 million nonsmokers who are exposed to second-hand smoke.⁴

In 2023, the Centre for Family Health Initiative, through the Community Action against Drug misuse (CAADA) project, conducted a road walk in the Dawaki, Dutse Alhaji, and Dutse Sokale areas, educating over 200 youths about the hazards of drug misuse.

The health implications of tobacco use are extensive and severe, affecting virtually every organ in the body and leading to numerous preventable diseases and deaths. Despite these known risks, tobacco addiction continues to pose a significant public health challenge. Combating this issue requires ongoing education, stronger regulatory measures, and support for individuals trying to quit. By reducing tobacco use, we can improve health outcomes and save millions of lives each year.

REFERENCES:

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MONDAY HEALTH ON IMPACT OF LACK OF MENSTRUAL PRODUCT ON MENTAL HEALTH

Monday Health Burst, WHO / cfhinitiative

Menstrual hygiene is a crucial aspect of health for individuals who menstruate, yet millions around the world face significant challenges in accessing necessary products and facilities. On any given day, more than 300 million women worldwide are menstruating. In total, an estimated 500 million lack access to menstrual products and adequate facilities for menstrual hygiene management (MHM).¹ The absence of adequate menstrual hygiene products not only affects physical health but also has profound implications for mental health.

Menstruation is often shrouded in stigma and taboo, leading to feelings of shame and embarrassment. Inadequate access to menstrual hygiene products exacerbates this stigma, forcing many individuals to use ineffective alternatives like old clothes, rags, or even paper, which can be uncomfortable and unreliable. This situation often results in leaks and odors, further stigmatizing the individual. The fear of being judged or ridiculed can lead to social isolation, where individuals avoid school, work, or social interactions, perpetuating a cycle of exclusion and loneliness.

The lack of menstrual hygiene products is a significant barrier to education for young girls. Many miss several days of school each month or drop out entirely due to the unavailability of adequate facilities and products. This educational disruption has long-term consequences, including diminished career opportunities and economic instability, which can contribute to chronic stress and anxiety. The constant worry about managing menstruation in public spaces further compounds the mental health burden.

Furthermore, using unsuitable alternatives to sanitary products can cause physical discomfort and health issues, including infections. The constant battle with discomfort and the potential for health complications can create a persistent state of anxiety and stress. The fear of potential health problems and the inability to maintain basic hygiene can severely impact self-esteem and overall mental health.

The recurring monthly challenge of managing menstruation without proper products creates a relentless emotional strain. The inability to afford or access menstrual products can evoke feelings of helplessness, frustration, and inadequacy. For those already struggling with poverty, the added financial burden of purchasing menstrual products can lead to heightened stress and anxiety. The emotional toll of constantly worrying about menstrual hygiene can diminish overall quality of life and lead to more severe mental health issues, such as depression.

Effective menstrual hygiene management (MHM) is crucial for empowering women and girls to reach their full potential. Poor menstrual health and hygiene have far-reaching negative impacts across various sectors. Consequently, the Centre for Family Health Initiative (CFHI) employs a comprehensive approach to improving menstrual hygiene in its operations within vulnerable communities in Nigeria.

Over the years, CFHI has provided SafePad^TMfor more than 2000 vulnerable women and girls in underserved communities. We have partnered with many organizations to commemorate Menstrual Hygiene day by campaigning and raising awareness against period poverty, providing education on menstrual hygiene, and distributing free SafePad^TM

The impact of lacking menstrual hygiene products extends far beyond physical discomfort, deeply affecting mental health and overall well-being. Addressing this issue is not only a matter of public health but also of human rights and gender equality. By ensuring that everyone has access to the necessary menstrual hygiene products and education, we can alleviate significant mental health burdens and promote a healthier, more inclusive society.

Reference:

https://www.worldbank.org/en/topic/water/brief/menstrual-health-and-hygiene¹

https://mailchi.mp/b838e480faa1/cfhi-prioritizing-menstrual-hygeine-in-nigeria

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MONDAY HEALTH BURST ON ECTOPIC PREGNANCY

Monday Health Burst, WHO / cfhinitiative

Pregnancy is typically viewed as a joyous and natural event, but sometimes complications can arise that require urgent medical attention. One such complication is an ectopic pregnancy, a condition that can pose serious risks to a woman’s health and requires timely intervention.

An ectopic pregnancy occurs when a fertilized egg implants and grows outside the uterus, most commonly in the fallopian tube. However, it can also occur in other areas such as the cervix, ovary, or abdominal cavity. Since these locations are not designed to support the growth of a developing embryo, an ectopic pregnancy cannot progress normally and poses serious risks to the mother. Ectopic pregnancies occur in about 2% of all pregnancies.¹

Recognizing the symptoms of an ectopic pregnancy is crucial for prompt medical intervention. Common symptoms include:

Abdominal or Pelvic Pain: Sharp, stabbing pain in the abdomen or pelvis is a hallmark symptom. The pain may be localized on one side.

Vaginal Bleeding: Light to heavy vaginal bleeding may occur, often different from normal menstruation.

Shoulder Tip Pain: This can be a sign of internal bleeding and occurs when blood irritates nerves around the diaphragm, causing referred pain to the shoulder tip.

Weakness, Dizziness, or Fainting: These symptoms can indicate significant internal bleeding and require immediate medical attention.

Gastrointestinal Symptoms: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or pain during bowel movements.

The majority of ectopic pregnancies occur due to conditions that hinder the normal movement of the egg through the fallopian tube.² This can be attributed to various factors:

Previous Pelvic Surgery: Scar tissue, adhesions, or inflammation resulting from past pelvic surgeries can impede the egg’s journey through the fallopian tube.

Fallopian Tube Damage: Damage to the fallopian tubes, often caused by sexually transmitted infections (STIs), can disrupt the egg’s passage.

Irregular Fallopian Tube Shape: Some individuals are born with fallopian tubes that have irregular shapes, which can interfere with the egg’s movement.

Blockages: The presence of growths or obstructions within the fallopian tube can physically prevent the egg from traveling towards the uterus, leading to an ectopic pregnancy.

Several factors increase the risk of ectopic pregnancy:

Previous Ectopic Pregnancy: Women who have had one ectopic pregnancy are at increased risk of another.

Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID): Infections such as chlamydia or gonorrhea can lead to inflammation and scarring of the fallopian tubes.

Previous Abdominal or Pelvic Surgery: Surgeries such as cesarean section or surgery to the fallopian tubes can increase the risk.

Smoking: Women who smoke have a higher risk of ectopic pregnancy.

Early diagnosis of ectopic pregnancy is crucial to prevent life-threatening complications. Diagnostic methods include ultrasound imaging and blood tests to measure pregnancy hormone levels.

Ectopic pregnancy is a serious condition that requires swift medical attention. Knowing the symptoms and risk factors can help women seek timely care and improve outcomes. With advances in medical technology, most women who experience an ectopic pregnancy can go on to have successful pregnancies in the future, but early detection and treatment are essential. If you suspect an ectopic pregnancy or experience any concerning symptoms, do not hesitate to seek medical advice promptly.

References