… Group launches Foundation to educate, support women on reproductive health
Women have been advised to practice stress management techniques in order to ensure good reproductive health and mental wellbeing.
Speaking at the unveiling of Women’s Genital and Fertility Health Foundation (WOGAF), a non-governmental organization established to educate and provide support for women on reproductive health, on Saturday, the Chief Executive Officer/Medical Director of Triple H Fertility Hub and Specialist Hospital, Dr. Haleemah Olalere, said chronic stress is capable of disrupting menstrual cycles, causing fertility issues, and leading to hormonal imbalances.
Dr. Olalere who was the guest lecturer addressed the topic, ‘Female Reproductive Health and Mental Well-being’ at the event that was held at Bode Thomas, Surulere, Lagos under the chairperson, Barrister Mutiat Orolu-Balogun, an Hijab Rights Advocate.
Dr. Olalere, during her PowerPoint presentation, warned that these reproductive health issues can have significant psychological consequences on women.
“Prolonged or intense stress triggers the body’s ‘fight or flight’ response, which involves the release of stress hormones like cortisol. High levels of cortisol can disrupt the balance of reproductive hormones, such as estrogen and progesterone, leading to irregular menstrual cycles or even missed periods,” she said.
“Chronic stress can interfere with the normal functioning of the hypothalamus and pituitary gland (which controls the release of reproductive hormones) potentially leading to anovulation (lack of ovulation) and difficulties with conception.”
The specialist called for improved awareness on female reproductive health, noting people can always seek medical help when they are adequately informed.
“Female reproductive health, especially topics like menstruation, pregnancy loss, and sex health, have often been shrouded in taboo and shame. Discussing these topics openly helps to break down these societal barriers.
“When women are informed about their reproductive health and its connection to mental well-being, they are better equipped to advocate for themselves, seek medical help, and make informed decisions regarding their health.”
The Specialist encouraged women to eat well-balanced diet rich in vitamins, minerals, healthy fats, and proteins to support hormonal balance and a good reproductive system.
Other suggestions she made included, managing blood sugar, eating food rich in antioxidants, regular exercise, adequate sleep, regular medical care and maintaining a healthy weight.
Women deserve adequate care: Barr. Orolu-Balogun
In her remarks, the chairperson of the occasion, Barr. Orolu-Balogun, said women play critical roles that shape the future of the world, and they deserve adequate care.
“As we launch the Foundation, we are driven by a singular focus: to improve the health, well-being, and economic empowerment of women and girls in Nigeria and beyond. Our mission is built on the pillars of education, advocacy, and community engagement,” she said.
She said many women suffer in silence over fertility issues, thereby aggravating the problem, adding that the Foundation sets out to break the silence and provide support to women.
“Fertility issues affect an estimated 1 in 4 couples in Nigeria. The emotional, psychological, and economic burdens of infertility are often borne in silence, exacerbating the suffering. WOGAF is committed to breaking this silence, providing support, and advocating access to fertility treatments and education.
“As an organisation, WOGAF is dedicated to: offering educational materials on menstrual health, contraception, STIs, pregnancy, and menopause; partnering with providers to offer screenings, treatments, and counseling at affordable rates; offering mental health support; and integrating mental health services to address the psychological aspects of reproductive health.
“We will also advocate policy changes and implementation to improve maternal healthcare and fertility services. We will provide education, training, and resources for healthcare providers, community leaders, and individuals. We shall be supporting research and innovation in maternal and reproductive health. Our scope also extends to empowering women and girls through economic empowerment initiatives, mentorship, and community engagement,” the chairman said.
* Why I Floated the Foundation -Adeniyi
Earlier in her welcome address, the Director of the Foundation, Hajia Fatimah Adeniyi expressed her excitement to guests and participants who graced the launch, adding that she was inspired to take the step of starting the NGO by the story of a young woman that struggled with infertility.
She said millions of women across the world suffer from genital and fertility health issues, which has affected their physical and mental well-being.
“As a healthcare professional, I witnessed firsthand the devastating impact of these issues. A young woman, struggling with infertility, shared her story with me. Her words still echo: “I feel broken, invisible, and ashamed.” This moment sparked a burning desire to act.
“Millions of women worldwide suffer from genital and fertility health issues, ranging from fistula to endometriosis. These conditions not only affect physical well-being but also mental health, relationships, and economic empowerment,” she said.
The Director called on women to join their cause of breaking the silence by sharing their stories and amplifying the voices of others.
“You should also support our initiatives, donate to our cause, advocate for policy changes, and demand better healthcare. Most importantly, as women, we need to educate ourselves and empower others.”
Muslim News gathered that the event which was attended by women and young ladies, including secondary school students, was headlined by the cutting of cake to mark the launch of the initiative.
Beautiful faces at the unveiling…
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