EDEN NEWS - August is Women's Health Awareness Month. During this month, extra efforts are made by staff at Western Cape Government Health facilities to make women aware how important it is that they look after their health and wellness.
Following the findings of a 2014 study in Eden, that identified the role of healthcare workers as crucial in women's health services, a Women's Health Symposium was held in George on Friday 4 August for all enrolled nurses and nursing assistants in the district.
The symposium aimed at addressing this priority and covered topics set out in the Eden Women's Health strategy.
Contraception and fertility planning are a fundamental aspect of women's health, while sexual assault and termination of pregnancy requires healthcare providers to facilitate sensitive conversations.
Skills enhanced during the symposium will be practised in both hospital and primary healthcare settings to provide quality healthcare to the women in the Eden district.
The focus on women's health is not limited to the month of August or to the topics addressed during the recent symposium. Regular cervical and breast screening, pregnancy and postpartum wellness, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, using medication as prescribed and mental health are highlighted during Women's Health consultations.
Some facilities offer extended hours for working ladies, while some of the affiliated NGOs will have in-community events that focus on women. Clients can enquire about extended hours at their local health facility.
Men play a huge role in women's health too, whether they are a father, brother, boyfriend or husband. A few of the most important items on men's checklist are to know their HIV status, use condoms during sex and consider undergoing male medical circumcision.
Couples should be informed regarding the contraceptive methods available and actively create an environment in which planning a family and child spacing is a mutual decision.
By living a healthy life and taking responsibility for your wellness, you can do your part in ensuring that your community live healthy and happy lives.
Dr Helise Schumann, director for Eden and Central Karoo Districts WCG Health, highlighted the importance of a healthy lifestyle for women. "As mothers, sisters, wives and friends we need to take care of our health and wellness in order to be able to take care of others."
Knysna sub-district was the best performing sub-district for the Women's Health Programme for 2016/17, with Bitou second and Hessequa third.
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