Women health plays a pivotal role in the health of every family, community and nation. In society women have a unique set of health care challenges. Every year on May 28, the world observes the International day of action for women’s health, a global call to prioritize  women’s health, highlighting demands for the fulfilment of women’s rights. The international day of action for women’s health in 2025 will focus on the theme “In solidarity we resist: Our fight, Our Right”

History

The International day of action for women’s health originated from the women’s health movement in the late 1980s. It was first celebrated in 1987 following a proposal by the Latin American and Caribbean Women’s Health Network (LACWHN) during the international women’s health meeting in Costa Rica.

Significance

Creating a ripple effect of strength and resilience across the globe for focusing on a critical yet often overlooked - well being of women health, mobilizing collective action to prioritize women’s health as a fundamental human right

Key challenges to be addressed include

·         Lack of access to comprehensive reproductive health services

·         Social stigma around menstruation, infertility and menopause

·         Gender based violence and trauma

·         Disparities  in maternal healthcare particularly in under served areas

 This focuses and urges  to empower women with the right to make informed choices about their health without  judgement and barriers.

How we can take action

·         Raise awareness and educate on women’s health

·         Empower women to nurture their physical, mental and emotional health

·         Access to quality healthcare

·         Provide information about sexual health

·         Offer safe spaces for open conversation around women’s health concerns

·         Support access to contraception, maternal care and reproductive care

·         Use your voice for gender sensitive policies

·         Funding for women’s health programs

·         Proper policy and practice within the healthcare system

·         Recognize the impact of violence and discrimination on women’s health

·         Support holistic health for women

·         Fostering an environment that respects and upholds women’s fundamental rights to health