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Something is changing—and it’s happening fast. Across India, more and more young girls are entering puberty earlier than ever before. What was once rare is now alarmingly common. Some girls are beginning their first periods or showing signs of puberty as early as age 7. This phenomenon, known as precocious puberty, is raising red flags among doctors, parents, and educators.

Recent studies reveal that nearly 34% of Indian girls show signs of puberty before age 8. The average age for a girl’s first period, or menarche, has dropped to around 12 years—a significant shift compared to previous generations.

“Early puberty is a silent epidemic in urban India. It’s time we move beyond awareness and take concrete action—starting with our homes, our schools, and the choices we make every day for our children,” says Dr. Sujata Kar, a leading gynecologist in Bhubaneswar.

 

What Causes Early Puberty in Girls?

1. Increased Childhood Obesity and Hormonal Changes
   One of the main causes of early puberty is weight gain in children. Higher body fat leads to an increase in estrogen—the hormone responsible for triggering puberty. Additionally, excess fat boosts leptin, another hormone associated with early sexual development.
2. Exposure to Harmful Chemicals in Everyday Products
   Children today are regularly exposed to hormone-disrupting chemicals found in plastics, cosmetics, and cleaning products. Compounds like BPA and phthalates can mimic estrogen, interfering with normal hormonal development and accelerating puberty.
   Some experts also warn about hormones used in dairy and meat farming, which may be entering the food chain and affecting children’s health.
3. Screen Time and Disrupted Sleep Patterns
   Prolonged screen time and access to inappropriate content can stimulate parts of the brain linked to puberty. Moreover, poor sleep habits are a rising concern. The hormone melatonin, which regulates sleep, also plays a key role in controlling the timing of puberty. Irregular or insufficient sleep can throw this delicate balance off track.

 

Why Early Puberty in Girls Is a Serious Health Issue

Precocious puberty isn’t just about early physical development—it can have lasting emotional and health consequences. Girls who experience early puberty face a higher risk of:

• Hormonal cancers
• Type 2 diabetes
• Osteoporosis (weak bones)
• Depression and anxiety

While boys are also experiencing earlier signs of puberty, the emotional and social impact is typically more pronounced in girls.

 

What Can Parents Do to Prevent Early Puberty?

The good news is, there are practical steps every parent can take to help delay early puberty and promote healthy growth in children:

• Offer a nutrient-rich, balanced diet with fresh fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
• Encourage regular physical activity like dance, swimming, or sports
• Limit screen time and ensure digital content is age-appropriate
• Establish a consistent sleep routine to support hormone regulation
• Choose natural, chemical-free products for skincare, food storage, and cleaning
• Help your child maintain a healthy weight

 

Let’s Protect Our Children’s Physical and Emotional Well-being

Early puberty in girls is a rising concern in urban India, but with the right awareness and lifestyle choices, we can help children grow at a natural and healthy pace. Start with small changes at home, encourage open conversations, and support your child’s emotional development.

Let’s give our children the time, space, and care they need to grow up strong and confident—at their own pace.

Every woman deserves access to safe, dignified, and healthy menstrual care. Yet for many, menstruation continues to be surrounded by stigma and misinformation—especially among young girls and women in rural areas of India. This lack of awareness and access to proper menstrual hygiene products leads to physical health issues and emotional distress.

World Menstrual Hygiene Day 2024, observed on May 28, is a global campaign dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of good menstrual hygiene and education. It also aims to tackle the real challenges faced by millions of women and girls—particularly in low-income regions with limited access to clean water, sanitation, and safe menstrual products.

 

A Voice for Change: Dr. Sujata Kar on Menstrual Health

Dr. Sujata Kar, a leading gynecologist in Bhubaneswar, supports this year’s theme: #PeriodFriendlyWorld.
“In a #PeriodFriendlyWorld,” she explains, “stigma and taboos around menstruation become a thing of the past. Every girl and woman should have access to accurate period education, hygienic products, and safe facilities.”

She also sheds light on the health risks associated with poor menstrual hygiene and offers tips to manage menstruation safely.

 

Health Risks of Poor Menstrual Hygiene

Ignoring proper menstrual hygiene can lead to several infections and complications. Dr. Kar outlines key health risks:

• Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): Infrequent changing of pads or tampons creates a breeding ground for bacteria, leading to infections in the urethra, bladder, or kidneys.
• Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID): When bacteria spread from the vagina to reproductive organs, it can cause PID—resulting in fever, pain, and even infertility.
• Yeast Infections: Wearing non-breathable pads or excessive use of feminine washes can cause yeast overgrowth, leading to irritation and itching.
• Bacterial Vaginosis: Failing to change menstrual products regularly disrupts the vagina’s natural balance, resulting in unusual odor, discharge, and discomfort.

 

Why Menstrual Hygiene Awareness Matters

Menstrual health is fundamental to women’s well-being, yet it’s often overlooked. Here’s why spreading awareness is essential:

• Empowering Girls: Education around menstruation enables girls to manage their periods confidently, reducing school absenteeism and dropouts.
• Breaking the Silence: Open discussions help dismantle taboos and promote health-seeking behavior.
• Early Education: Teaching girls about menstruation from the age of 8 helps them face puberty with confidence.
• Health Protection: Good hygiene practices help prevent common infections and long-term reproductive complications.
• Infrastructure & Access: Ensuring clean toilets, proper disposal systems, and affordable menstrual products creates a safe environment for all.

 

Menstrual Hygiene Tips for Every Woman

Dr. Kar recommends simple, effective practices to maintain menstrual health:

• Avoid bubble baths, perfumed soaps, or feminine hygiene sprays.
• Clean your vulva gently with plain water; avoid douching.
• Always wipe from front to back after using the toilet.
• Choose soft, unscented white toilet paper.
• Wear breathable cotton underwear and use 100% cotton sanitary pads.
• Change your pad or tampon every 4 hours—or sooner during heavy flow.
• Choose unscented, hypoallergenic menstrual products.

 

A Shared Mission: Ending Period Stigma

World Menstrual Hygiene Day 2024 is more than a campaign—it’s a movement toward dignity, equality, and empowerment. By spreading awareness, investing in menstrual health infrastructure, and promoting inclusive education, we can build a society where no girl or woman is held back by her period.

Together, let’s create a #PeriodFriendlyWorld—where menstrual health is prioritized, respected, and normalized.

March is recognized as Endometriosis Awareness Month, drawing attention to a complex and often misunderstood condition that affects an estimated 6% to 22% of women in their reproductive years. That translates to nearly 176 million women globally, across all ethnicities and socio-economic backgrounds. Endometriosis is defined by the presence of endometrial-like tissue growing outside the uterus, which can lead to pain, infertility, and a range of other symptoms.

 

Endometriosis: An Enigma

Dr. Sujata Kar, Obstetrician and Gynecologist, explains that endometriosis is characterized by the growth of endometrial glands and stroma outside the uterine cavity, most commonly in the pelvic region but potentially affecting any organ. This ectopic tissue responds to hormonal cycles, leading to inflammation, adhesions, and in some cases, infertility.

 

Key Risk Factors for Endometriosis:

Risk Factor	Description
Reproductive Age	Most common in reproductive years
Early Menarche	Early onset of menstruation
Prolonged & Frequent Cycles	Longer and more frequent menstrual cycles
Nullipara	Having never given birth
Cryptomenorrhoea	Hidden menstrual bleeding
Family History	Relatives with endometriosis

How Endometriosis Affects Daily Life

Endometriosis significantly impacts women’s physical, emotional, and social well-being, often during their most productive years. It is not a lifestyle-related disease and can affect women from all walks of life. Delayed diagnosis and mismanagement often result in reduced quality of life and work productivity.

 

Symptoms and Treatment Options

Recognizing the symptoms of endometriosis is crucial for early intervention. Common symptoms include:

Symptoms	Treatment Options
Painful periods	Analgesics, Hormonal therapy
Pelvic cramps	GnRH analogues, Progestins
Pain during sexual intercourse	Mirena, Surgery
Pain with bowel movements	Laparoscopic Surgery
Pelvic or low back pain	OCPs (Oral Contraceptive Pills)
Persistent pelvic pain	Conservative surgical treatments

Diagnosis

Endometriosis is typically diagnosed through laparoscopy followed by histological examination. However, the severity of symptoms doesn’t always align with the extent of the disease, which can make diagnosis challenging. Pain—especially during menstruation, intercourse, or bowel movements—is the most common indicator.

 

Treatment for Endometriosis

Management of endometriosis involves a combination of medical and surgical treatments, including:

• Pain-relieving medications
• Hormonal therapies to suppress menstrual cycles
• Minimally invasive laparoscopic surgery
• Hormonal IUDs and oral contraceptives
• Conservative surgical approaches for chronic or severe cases

The choice of treatment depends on symptom severity, age, and whether fertility preservation is a concern.

 

Living and Coping with Endometriosis

Living with endometriosis involves more than medical treatment—it requires ongoing support, lifestyle management, and emotional care. Finding a knowledgeable and empathetic healthcare provider is essential. Open communication, understanding treatment side effects, and incorporating stress-reducing habits can help improve quality of life.

 

Final Thoughts

Endometriosis is a deeply challenging but manageable condition. Raising awareness and promoting early diagnosis are key to reducing its impact. With the right support and treatment plan, many women can lead fulfilling lives despite the diagnosis. Education and advocacy can help break the silence around this often invisible illness—making room for better care and understanding.

In recent years, India has seen a troubling increase in obesity, especially among women. This growing health concern not only threatens individual wellness but also adds substantial pressure on the nation’s healthcare system. As a gynecologist committed to women’s health, I believe it is critical to highlight this issue and promote actionable solutions.

According to recent statistics, India ranks third globally—behind only the United States and China—in the number of obese individuals. An alarming 70% of the urban population is now categorized as overweight or obese. These figures reflect a serious public health issue that needs urgent attention.

Currently, around eight crore Indians are obese, with one crore falling in the 5–19 age group, pointing to an alarming rise in childhood obesity in India. Additionally, 30 million adults are overweight or obese, and 62 million Indians with diabetes show signs of obesity, such as excess body fat, abdominal obesity, and ectopic fat deposits.

How Obesity Affects Women’s Health

Obesity impacts women’s health across many dimensions, particularly reproductive health and chronic disease risk. Below are the major concerns:

1. Fertility Challenges

Obesity can lead to hormonal imbalances that cause irregular menstruation and infertility. It also raises the risk of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), a common condition that further affects fertility.

2. Pregnancy-Related Risks

Obese women face a higher risk of complications such as gestational diabetes, high blood pressure during pregnancy (preeclampsia), and an increased likelihood of cesarean sections. These issues can affect both maternal and neonatal health.

3. Increased Chronic Disease Burden

Excess weight is a leading contributor to type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and even some types of cancer. Indian women, especially in urban areas, are increasingly vulnerable to these long-term health conditions.

4. Mental and Emotional Impact

Beyond physical health, obesity can lead to low self-esteem, depression, and social isolation, all of which have a significant impact on mental health and quality of life.

The Way Forward: Practical Solutions

Tackling the rise of obesity among women in India calls for collaborative efforts from individuals, healthcare providers, and policymakers. Here are key areas of focus:

Promote Balanced Nutrition

Encourage healthy eating habits with diets rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Educating women about portion control and nutritional awareness is vital for long-term weight management.

Encourage Regular Physical Activity

Incorporate daily movement into routines—whether it’s walking, yoga, swimming, or dancing. Consistent physical exercise supports weight control and enhances overall women’s wellness.

Prioritize Routine Health Screenings

Regular check-ups should include obesity screening and personalized weight loss counselling, particularly for women of reproductive age. Support systems involving nutritionists, fitness experts, and mental health professionals can make a significant difference.

Conclusion

The growing obesity epidemic among women in India demands urgent action. Beyond personal choices, it requires a unified approach involving awareness, education, and public policy. As medical professionals, we must lead by offering support, accurate information, and proactive care. By empowering women to take charge of their health, we can reduce obesity rates and build a healthier future for the next generation.

Diabetes during pregnancy, whether pre-existing or gestational, is a growing health concern that requires careful management to ensure the safety of both mother and baby. This metabolic disorder, marked by high blood sugar levels, can lead to serious complications if not properly controlled.

According to the International Diabetes Federation, around 21 million live births globally are impacted by some form of hyperglycemia during pregnancy. Among these, both pre-existing type 1 or type 2 diabetes and gestational diabetes pose significant health risks.

Dr. Sujata Kar, a renowned Obstetrician and Gynaecologist at Kar IVF Clinic, highlights the risks associated with diabetes in pregnancy and shares essential strategies for safe maternal and neonatal outcomes.

 

Key Risks of Diabetes in Pregnancy

1. Higher Risk of Birth Defects
   Poorly controlled blood sugar levels in early pregnancy increase the risk of congenital anomalies, especially affecting the heart and spine. Research shows a two to four times higher chance of birth defects in babies born to mothers with pre-existing diabetes.
2. Gestational Diabetes Complications
   Gestational diabetes, a condition where women develop high blood sugar levels during pregnancy, affects approximately 6-9% of pregnancies worldwide (WHO). It can lead to macrosomia (larger babies), preterm labor, and a greater risk of both mother and child developing type 2 diabetes in the future.
3. Risk of Preeclampsia
   Women with diabetes are significantly more prone to preeclampsia, a condition marked by high blood pressure and organ damage. Studies indicate a 2 to 5 times higher risk compared to women without diabetes.
4. Macrosomia and Labor Complications
   Uncontrolled diabetes often results in larger babies, increasing the risk of birth injuries, C-sections, and other delivery complications.
5. Neonatal Hypoglycemia
   Babies born to diabetic mothers may experience low blood sugar levels (hypoglycemia) after birth, which requires immediate monitoring and care to avoid complications.
6. Long-term Health Concerns
   The effects of diabetes extend beyond delivery. Children born to diabetic mothers are more likely to develop obesity and type 2 diabetes later in life, highlighting the importance of continued care after childbirth.

 

Effective Solutions for a Healthy Pregnancy with Diabetes

1. Preconception Care
   Planning is key. Women with known diabetes should consult healthcare providers before conceiving to stabilize blood sugar levels and reduce risk factors.
2. Regular Monitoring and Prenatal Checkups
   Frequent blood glucose testing throughout pregnancy allows timely adjustments to diet, insulin, or medication. This supports stable blood sugar control, crucial for avoiding complications.
3. Nutritional Support
   Following a low-sugar, high-nutrient diet is essential. Consultation with a clinical nutritionist can help tailor a diet plan that supports both pregnancy and diabetes management.
4. Safe Physical Activity
   Engaging in moderate exercise during pregnancy improves insulin sensitivity and overall well-being. Activities should be approved by a medical professional to ensure safety for mother and baby.
5. Medication and Insulin Management
   Adhering to prescribed treatment plans is vital. As pregnancy progresses, insulin needs may change, requiring close coordination with a diabetologist or gynecologist.
6. Home Blood Sugar Monitoring
   Using glucometers for daily monitoring helps maintain optimal glucose levels, guiding dietary and medication decisions in real-time.

 

Expert Insight from Dr. Sujata Kar

“Diabetes during pregnancy is a manageable condition when addressed with early planning and proper care. With personalized guidance and lifestyle modifications, women can enjoy a healthy pregnancy and give birth to healthy babies,” says Dr. Sujata Kar, whose leadership at Kar Clinic & Hospitals continues to provide hope and expert care to women across Odisha.

 

Conclusion

While pregnancy with diabetes presents unique challenges, the risks can be significantly reduced with preconception planning, medical guidance, and a comprehensive management approach. Maintaining open communication with healthcare professionals ensures early detection and intervention, giving expectant mothers the best chance at a smooth pregnancy journey. For expert consultation and support on gestational diabetes management or pre-pregnancy diabetes care, visit Kar IVF Clinic, Bhubaneswar, today.

Breast cancer remains a major public health concern in India, impacting a significant number of women each year. It is currently the most prevalent cancer among Indian women, with its incidence rising steadily over time. This article provides an overview of the current breast cancer landscape in India, including its causes, symptoms, early detection methods, and treatment options.

The prevalence of breast cancer is increasing across the country, making it the leading cancer affecting Indian women. According to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), more than 180,000 new breast cancer cases were reported in India in 2020 alone. Accounting for 14% of all cancers in Indian women, the growing incidence is driven by a combination of factors such as lifestyle changes, environmental exposure, and genetic predisposition.

According to Dr. Sujata Kar, a renowned Obstetrician and Gynecologist based in Bhubaneswar, here’s what you should know about the causes, symptoms, and treatment of breast cancer:

 

Causes of Breast Cancer

• Genetic Factors: A family history of breast cancer significantly increases the risk, indicating a genetic link in some cases.
• Hormonal Factors: Early onset of menstruation, delayed menopause, and prolonged use of hormonal contraceptives can heighten the risk.
• Lifestyle Factors: Sedentary lifestyle, excessive alcohol consumption, and obesity contribute to the development of breast cancer.
• Environmental Factors: Exposure to radiation and environmental pollutants also plays a role.

 

Common Symptoms to Watch For

• Lump or Mass: The most recognizable symptom is a painless lump or mass in the breast.
• Changes in Breast Appearance: Alterations in breast size, shape, skin texture, or the appearance of nipple discharge or inversion should be examined.
• Pain: Although not always linked to cancer, persistent breast pain should not be ignored.
• Lymph Node Enlargement: Swelling in the lymph nodes around the armpit or collarbone may indicate the cancer has spread.

 

Importance of Early Detection

Early detection greatly improves treatment outcomes. Common methods include:

• Breast Self-Exams: Women aged 20–39 are encouraged to perform monthly self-exams to identify any unusual changes.
• Clinical Breast Examinations: Women between 40–49 years should undergo regular check-ups and ultrasounds every 1–2 years.
• Mammograms: These X-ray screenings can detect tumors that may not be felt. Mammograms are recommended every two years, especially for women at higher risk.
• Biopsy: If abnormalities are found, a biopsy confirms whether the tissue is cancerous.

 

Treatment Options

Treatment strategies are based on the type and stage of the cancer, along with the patient’s overall health. Common options include:

• Surgery: The tumor is removed surgically, which may involve a lumpectomy or a mastectomy (removal of the entire breast).
• Radiation Therapy: Often used post-surgery to destroy any remaining cancer cells and prevent recurrence.
• Chemotherapy: Cancer-fighting drugs are used to kill or inhibit the growth of cancer cells, either before or after surgery.
• Hormone Therapy: For hormone receptor-positive cancers, this therapy blocks the hormones that fuel cancer growth.
• Targeted Therapy: These drugs specifically target cancer cell mechanisms and are often combined with other treatments.
• Immunotherapy: Boosts the body’s immune system to help it identify and destroy cancer cells.

 

Conclusion

Breast cancer is a multifaceted disease with a range of risk factors and treatment options. Regular screenings and early diagnosis can significantly improve the likelihood of successful treatment. Being aware of personal risk factors and taking proactive steps—such as routine check-ups and self-exams—can go a long way in maintaining breast health. With continuous advancements in medical science, breast cancer treatment and diagnosis are becoming more effective, offering hope to those affected by the disease.

 

Bhubaneswar, Sept 13: In recent years advancements in reproductive technology have given women the opportunity to exercise greater control over their bodies and reproductive choices. One such advancement that has gained significant attention is egg freezing, also known as oocyte cryopreservation.

Egg freezing allows women to freeze their eggs, preserving their fertility and providing them with the flexibility to start a family at a time that aligns with their personal and professional goals. Egg freezing offers numerous benefits and has become an empowering choice for women around the world.

In recent years India has witnessed a significant increase in the popularity of egg freezing, with more women opting for this procedure to secure their future fertility. Here’s how Obstetrician and Gynecologist Dr. Sujata Kar says:

What is Egg Freezing?

Egg freezing, otherwise known as cryopreservation is essentially the process of retrieval of eggs from the woman’s ovaries and freezing them at a temperature of -196° Celsius in liquid nitrogen for later use when the woman feels she is ready for conception and pregnancy. These eggs that are frozen are good for use and are not compromised in quality for up to many years after the freezing process is done.

Why Egg Freezing?

Social Egg Freezing-Social freezing means egg storing of a healthy, fertile woman, in order to have a pregnancy later in her life, i.e. at the age of 45 to 50, it should ideally be performed on women around 25 years of age in order to increase their chances of a future pregnancy As women age, the quantity and quality of their eggs decline, making it more challenging to conceive naturally. By freezing their eggs at a younger age, women can retain the higher quality eggs that they possess at that time, effectively preserving their fertility potential for the future. This empowers women to pursue their careers, education, or personal goals without the pressure of a ticking biological clock.

Egg Freezing for Cancer- Women in the early reproductive age group may suffer from various kinds of cancer like breast cancer, cervical cancer, ovarian cancer, leukaemia etc. Women with cancer often opt to have their eggs frozen since chemotherapy, radio therapy and treatment tend to affect their fertility.

Non-Cancerous Medical Reasons- Women who have been diagnosed with moderate to severe endometriosis, can opt to freeze their eggs to preserve their future fertility options.

Egg Freezing Process-

The process begins with an initial consultation with a fertility specialist or reproductive endocrinologist. During this consultation, the medical history and fertility goals of the individual are discussed. Once the decision to proceed with egg freezing is made, the individual will start a process called ovarian stimulation which involves the use of fertility medications, typically injectables, to stimulate the ovaries to produce multiple eggs. After stimulation of the ovary and continuous monitoring for some period of time the egg retrieval procedure done.

Once the eggs are retrieved, they are immediately taken to the laboratory for processing. The eggs are assessed for maturity and quality. They are then cryopreserved through a process called vitrification, which involves rapidly cooling the eggs to extremely low temperatures to prevent ice crystal formation and maintain their viability. When the individual is ready to use their frozen eggs, they can undergo a procedure called thawing. The eggs are carefully thawed in the laboratory and assessed for viability. The thawed eggs can then be fertilized with sperm through in vitro fertilization (IVF), and the resulting embryos can be transferred to the uterus for potential pregnancy.

Cost of Egg Freezing-

On average, the cost of egg freezing in India can range from ₹1,00,000 to ₹ 1,50,000, which is the cost of one-time egg retrieval and freezing. However, the recurrent annual fee for storing the frozen eggs has to be paid to the clinic. The Assisted Reproductive Technology (Regulation) Act, 2021 regulates all ART procedures, including egg freezing in India.

Indian society is becoming increasingly aware of the importance of reproductive choices and family planning. The cultural acceptance of egg freezing has grown and this acceptance fosters a supportive environment for women considering egg freezing, encouraging them to take control of their fertility and pursue their aspirations without compromising their desire to have children in the future.

As the demand for egg freezing continues to rise, ongoing advancements in medical technology and research are expected to further improve success rates and enhance the overall procedure. Continued research and innovation will make egg freezing even more accessible and reliable, offering women greater options and opportunities for family planning. This process has both pros and cons which should be taken into consideration by the women. Most importantly a consultation from the fertility expert is absolutely necessary before taking any decision.

Pregnancy is a remarkable journey filled with joy anticipation and care. Amid the excitement, it’s essential to navigate these nine months with a keen understanding of the precautions that can contribute to a healthy pregnancy. In this article, we’ll delve into the important “don’ts” that can contribute to a healthy and harmonious pregnancy.

According to Dr Sujata Kar, Obstetrician and Gynecologist Doctor in Bhubaneswar, these are some key things to avoid during pregnancy:

Smoking and Alcohol Consumption: Both smoking and alcohol consumption can have harmful effects on the developing foetus. They are associated with a higher risk of birth defects, premature birth, and developmental issues. It’s best to completely abstain from these substances during pregnancy.

Too much tea or coffee: While moderate caffeine consumption is generally considered safe, excessive intake can potentially lead to complications. Limit your caffeine(coffee or tea) intake to around 200 milligrams per day to reduce the risk of miscarriage and preterm birth.

Certain Foods: Raw or undercooked seafood, unpasteurized dairy products, and processed meats can carry harmful bacteria and increase the risk of foodborne illnesses. These can be particularly risky during pregnancy. Make sure to cook foods thoroughly and opt for pasteurized products.

Strenuous Exercises: While staying active during pregnancy is important, extremely strenuous exercises or activities with a risk of falling should be avoided. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting or continuing any exercise routine.

Self-Medications: Some medications and herbal supplements can be harmful to the developing foetus. Always consult your doctor before taking any medication, even if it’s over-the-counter or herbal.

Exposure to Harmful Chemicals: Limit exposure to household cleaning products, pesticides, and other chemicals that may be harmful during pregnancy. Opt for natural or less toxic alternatives whenever possible.

Hair dyes: Hair dyes are composed of chemicals that can get absorbed through the scalp in to the blood stream. This can lead to complications in foetal development and other cause reactions in the body of the pregnant women. It is best advised to wait until after pregnancy to dye your hair.

Stress and Overexertion: High levels of stress and overexertion can impact your well-being and potentially affect the baby. Practice relaxation techniques, engage in light exercise, and ensure you’re getting adequate rest.

Ignoring Warning Signs: If you experience any unusual symptoms, such as severe abdominal pain, bleeding, or sudden swelling, don’t ignore them. Contact your healthcare provider promptly to rule out any potential complications.

Every pregnancy is unique, and it’s essential to have open communication with your healthcare provider and your OB GYN. They can provide personalized guidance based on your medical history and specific circumstances. By being mindful of these common “don’ts,” you can contribute to a safer and healthier pregnancy journey.

Cervical cancer is a significant public health concern in India, accounting for a substantial number of cancer-related deaths among women. The prevalence of this preventable disease is often attributed to limited awareness, inadequate screening, and lack of access to healthcare.

According to HPV Information Centre cancer of the cervix is the second most common cancer among women in India, with an estimated 123907 new cases and 77348 deaths reported annually. However, with the introduction of cervical cancer vaccines, there is hope for a significant reduction in its incidence.

According to Dr Sujata Kar, Obstetrician and Gynecologist Doctor in Bhubaneswar, the primary cause of cervical cancer is persistent infection with high-risk strains of the Human Papillomavirus (HPV). HPV is a common sexually transmitted infection (STD) that can lead to the development of cervical lesions and, eventually, cancer.

Factors such as poor sanitation, multiple pregnancies, sexual activity at an early age and limited access to healthcare services also contribute to the prevalence of cervical cancer.

Symptoms:

Cervical cancer does not usually don’t exhibit symptoms well until advanced stages. Also, it is pretty easy to confuse symptoms of this cancer with other gynaecological diseases such as urinary tract infection, yeast infection, irregular menstrual cycle, etc. Here are a few symptoms you should watch out for:

• Unexplained vaginal bleeding. If it occurs in between your menstrual cycle, or after menopause, be alarmed.
• Bleeding after sexual intercourse.
• Excessive and abnormal vaginal discharge.
• Foul smelling vaginal discharge.
• Abnormal vaginal discharge after menopause.

Diagnosis:

• Pap Smear Tests: Doctors can detect abnormal cell growth through a pap smear test. This involves swabbing the cervix with a cotton swab and then sending it for a close examination.
• HPV Test: The patient may be required to go through a human papillomavirus test. This is very similar to the pap smear test.
• Other Tests: Pelvic sonography, CT scan, and MRI are some other tests that may be conducted to detect cancer.

Treatment options:

Treatment of cervical cancer depends on the stage of the cancer. The available treatment options include surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, laser ablation, cryotherapy and targeted therapy.

Preventive Measures:

• HPV Vaccination: In India, HPV vaccines like Gardasil and Cervarix are available and recommended for young girls and women between the ages of 9 and 43. Administering the vaccine before sexual debut provides the best protection.
• Regular Screening: Regular screening through Pap smears or HPV testing helps detect cervical abnormalities early, allowing for timely intervention. Regular screening can detect pre-cancerous changes in the cervix that can be treated before they progress to cancer
• Quit Smoking: Women who smoke are more vulnerable to cervical cancer.
• Safe Sexual Practices: Practicing safe sexual behaviours, such as using condoms, reduce the risk of HPV transmission.

Cervical cancer remains a significant health issue in India, but the introduction of HPV vaccines offers a ray of hope for its prevention. By increasing awareness, promoting vaccination, and improving healthcare access, India can make substantial progress in reducing the burden of cervical cancer and improving women’s reproductive health. It is crucial for healthcare authorities, policymakers, and stakeholders to collaborate to ensure that cervical cancer vaccines reach those who need them the most, thereby contributing to a healthier future for Indian women.