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Empowering Women, Saving Lives: Coronation WIN’s Wellness Fair Promotes Health and Breast Cancer Awareness

by Women Times on

In a powerful commitment to women’s health and empowerment, the Coronation Women Initiative Network (Coronation WIN) successfully hosted a Wellness Fair and Breast Cancer Awareness campaign across its business locations in Nigeria.

The event provided free health checks for all employees and vital breast cancer screenings for female employees, aligning with the global observance of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. This initiative reflects Coronation Group’s alignment with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal 5, which champions gender equality and women’s empowerment.

A highlight of the event was a hybrid session led by AXA Mansard titled “Understanding Breast Cancer: Prevention and Early Detection.” Health Specialist, Dr. Iyanuoluwa Oni emphasized the critical importance of early detection in reducing breast cancer mortality rates, especially in resource-constrained environments. The World Health Organization’s Global Breast Cancer Initiative aims to reduce global breast cancer mortality rates by 2.5% per year by 2040.

The session, introduced by Coronation WIN Chairperson Pai Gamde and moderated by Sustainability Manager Paul Osho, reinforced the organization’s commitment to employee health and well-being. Ngozi Akinyele, Coronation Group’s Chief Marketing and Communications Officer, stated, “At Coronation, we believe that nurturing great talent goes hand in hand with promoting their health. This event not only highlights the importance of breast cancer awareness but also underscores our commitment to creating a supportive environment for our employees to thrive.”

With breast cancer recognized as the most common cancer globally, Coronation WIN’s involvement in Breast Cancer Awareness Month underlines its dedication to reducing the disease’s impact on women. This initiative promotes health, wellness, and gender equality, strengthening Coronation’s broader agenda for a sustainable future.

By hosting this successful event, Coronation reaffirms its role in creating opportunities for women while championing health causes that benefit society at large. Coronation WIN remains committed to empowering women in finance & technology and fostering a culture of inclusivity and growth.

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Health

ICN Holds 30-day Free Mental Health Counseling Session for Nigerians

by Women Times on

As part of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) of contributing to the well-being of individuals and making life better, the Institute of Counseling in Nigeria (ICN) has announced that it is set to hold the 17th edition of Unbutton, its quarterly 30-day free counseling session tagged UNBUTTON 17.0, to help Nigerians enjoy therapeutic interventions and professional mental health counseling and therapy sessions at no cost.

 

According to ICN, the free counseling session will hold from Ist to 30th November 2024 and interested participants can sign up on its website

https://instituteofcounseling.org/upcoming-events/

 

Speaking on the forthcoming event, Executive Director of ICN, Dr. Tolulope Oko-Igaire said the aim of its quarterly free counseling session is to support Nigerians facing various mental health issues due to harsh economic realities, financial, marital, or other challenges, adding that accessing the free sessions could save lives as the increasing rate of suicide, depressions, and others are alarming.

 

She pointed out that the institute has collaborated with its member counselors to make it easy for people to access professional counseling services and therapy at no cost during the period.

Oko-Igaire explained that “Unbutton is a quarterly 30-day free counseling session put together by the Institute of Counseling as part of our CSR to encourage a mentally aware society as a whole.

 

“Mental well-being is essential for overall health as it impacts every other aspect of life and it is not surprising that a lot of people are not functioning optimally because of various mental health challenges they are dealing with daily coupled with the harsh economic reality.

 

“Sometimes, all you need to do is to talk and get some issues out of your chest and we have more than enough professional counselors who are trained in different areas of intervention to help you do justice to that.”

 

She added “We know so many people need help but cannot afford the fee, this is why ICN in collaboration with our member counselors is making this easy for you to access the service of a professional Counselor at no cost.

 

“Take advantage of this opportunity and unbutton to unburden. Life is worth living, and you deserve to be happy.”

 

ICN was founded in 2010 as a not-for-profit independent educational institution to help people achieve their dreams of becoming professional counselors and bridge the gap between theory and practice. It is also filling the vacuum of lack of access to standard education and the inability to acquire professional certificates in the field of counseling and psychotherapy in Africa. Interested individuals who are passionate about helping people can also sign up to become members of the Institute as students, associates, professionals, and fellows of The Institute of Counseling In Nigeria.

 

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Health

The Crucial Role of Family Planning in Owerri Municipal: Insights from Onuh Obinna Francis’ Research Work

by Women Times on

In a society grappling with rapid population growth and economic challenges, family planning emerges as a beacon of hope, empowering women, fostering healthier families, and ensuring sustainable development. Onuh Obinna Francis’ research, supervised by Mrs. Azusu N and overseen by Dr. Mrs Dozie Winne at the Federal University of Technology, Owerri, delves into the profound impact of family planning among women in Owerri Municipal, Imo State. This comprehensive study sheds light on the multifaceted benefits of family planning and underscores the urgent need for increased awareness and accessibility in the region.

Having a clear viewpoint on the concept of family planning encompasses a broad spectrum of practices aimed at controlling the timing and number of pregnancies. As highlighted by Onuh Obinna Francis in his research work at the Federal University of Technology, Owerri, it includes sexual education, contraception, prevention and management of sexually transmitted diseases, and infertility management. Beyond limiting the number of children, family planning ensures that each child receives adequate resources, thereby improving the overall quality of life for families. A critical aspect of family planning is informed choice, which empowers individuals to decide whether and when to have children, the use of contraception, and the methods to employ.

This decision-making process is influenced by a myriad of factors, including social, economic, cultural norms, and religious beliefs. Understanding these influences is crucial for developing effective family planning programs tailored to the unique needs of the community, ensuring that initiatives resonate and achieve their intended impact. Francis’s work underscores the necessity of integrating these multifaceted considerations into public health strategies to foster more equitable and informed reproductive health choices in Owerri Municipal.

The influence of social norms as detailed in Francis’ research highlights the significant role that community norms and cultural beliefs play in shaping attitudes towards family planning. In many societies, including the southeastern part of Nigeria, bearing and raising children is closely linked to a woman’s respect and dignity, which can often deter women from seeking family planning services.

Conversely, in cultures where smaller families are the norm, contraception is widely accepted and utilized. Additionally, the study points out the powerful influence of social networks on family planning decisions. For instance, women are more likely to use contraceptive methods that are popular within their community. This phenomenon, observed in urban Nigeria, underscores the need for community-based approaches to promote family planning. By aligning family planning initiatives with the cultural and social fabric of communities, we can enhance the acceptance and effectiveness of these essential health services.

The various types of family planning methods as highlighted by Francis provides a detailed overview of various family planning methods, categorized into natural and artificial methods. Natural methods, such as periodic abstinence, breastfeeding (Lactational Amenorrhea Method), and coitus interruptus (withdrawal method), are often preferred due to religious or cultural reasons. However, these methods are generally less reliable and do not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs).


On the other hand, artificial methods, particularly barrier methods like male and female condoms, offer more reliable protection against both pregnancy and STIs. The study emphasizes the critical need for educating women about these methods and ensuring they have access to them. Condoms, for example, not only prevent pregnancy but also provide crucial protection against HIV and other STIs, which is particularly important in regions with high rates of these infections. By prioritizing education and access, we can significantly improve the health outcomes for women and communities.

Addressing the utilization of family planning in Owerri municipal, despite the clear benefits of family planning, Francis’ research reveals a troubling underutilization of these services in Owerri Municipal. Factors such as low literacy, socio-economic status, and limited espousal communication significantly hinder the adoption of family planning methods. Additionally, societal pressures and misinformation about contraception further exacerbate the issue. The study underscores the urgent need for comprehensive education and community engagement to address these barriers. By increasing awareness about the benefits of family planning and dispelling prevalent myths, we can empower women to make informed choices about their reproductive health. This, in turn, will contribute to reducing the high rates of teenage pregnancy and maternal mortality in the region, fostering a healthier and more informed community.

The broader impact and far-reaching implications of family planning transcends personal health, bearing significant implications for economic and social development. By enabling women to space and limit pregnancies, family planning fosters healthier families and communities, allowing women to pursue education and employment opportunities, thereby enhancing their socio-economic status and contributing to national progress. Furthermore, as Francis’ research underscores, family planning can dramatically reduce the incidence of unsafe abortions. In Nigeria, where abortion is largely illegal, many women resort to unsafe procedures, resulting in high maternal mortality rates. Preventing unintended pregnancies through family planning not only saves lives but also improves maternal health outcomes, emphasizing its critical role in public health and national development.

The need for a call to action through Onuh Obinna Francis’ research work underscores the critical importance of family planning among women in Owerri Municipal, highlighting the urgent need for increased awareness, better education, and improved access to services. By addressing the cultural, social, and economic barriers to family planning, we can empower women, promote healthier families, and ensure sustainable development for the community. It is imperative for policymakers, healthcare providers, and community leaders to heed these findings and take concerted action. By investing in family planning programs and promoting informed choice, we can create a brighter future for the women of Owerri Municipal and beyond. The time to act is now.

The research titled “The Crucial Role of Family Planning in Owerri Municipal” was conducted in 2023. It was submitted to the Department of Public Health at the Federal University of Technology Owerri, Imo State, and was first published in October 2023 by FUTO Press.

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Health

Experts Task Women to Be Intentional About Mental Health, Burnout at 2024 Colours of Well-Being

by Women Times on

By Azeez Disu

Wellness experts and renowned business executives in the country have urged women to be intentional about their mental health and also be strategic about reducing burnout as part of a strategy to live a healthy life which will enable them to be able to contribute meaningfully to the development of their workplace and the society.

They made this known at the second edition of Colours of Well-Being with the theme “The Impact of Burnout on Women within the Workforce: Challenges and Solutions” held recently at the Centre Point Tower, Ikoyi, Lagos.

Delivering the keynote address, Dr. Tolu Oko-Igaire, Executive Director, Institute of Counseling in Nigeria and the President of the Association for Counseling, Matchmaking & Psychotherapy of Nigeria (ACMPN) said that people can be productive and contribute to the development of society if they are deliberate about their mental health and managing burnout.
She explained “You are not going to be automatically fine if you are not deliberate about your mental health”

Oko-Igaire added that how people respond to burnout matters and can help them regain their well-being. She says, “It is not what is happening to you that is causing burnout but how you respond to it.”

She urged employers to create an enabling environment for their employees to reduce the trend of burnout and employees should love their job and create a healthy balance between their work and life. This they can achieve by prioritizing their well-being which includes emotional, social, spiritual, cognitive, physical, and sexual well-being.

Prioritization of health and wellness was emphasized at the event by the experts which the Founder of Citisquare Africa and Convener of the event, Uche Nnama said was one of the reasons why the event was conceptualized.

He revealed that “During the pandemic, people who had a lot of money in their banks were even praying for their health, people were scared and health was prioritized and I said to myself if people could think of well-being from this perspective and that is why we came up with this programmme. We said we must carry this initiative to the next level and we must begin to educate people on how they can begin to prioritize their well-being.”

During the panel session moderated by Lehle Balde, Award-Wining Journalist, and Financial Inclusion Advocate, the experts spoke extensively and shared insights on strategies to curbing burnout. Omon Anenih, Founder and CEO, The DEW Center said burnout doesn’t happen overnight and it comes with some symptoms, urging women to reduce stress, relax, exercise regularly, read books about mental health and burnout, and consult wellness experts.

On her part, Stephanie Coker Aderinokun, TV Host Actor, and Producer urged women to prioritize their activities, create time to rest, and learn to say no to some engagements like nightlife and other social gatherings that are not necessary at a time or could have negative implication on the health of the person.

Furthermore, Yinka Adebayo, Group Executive Director, Media Investments, mediaReach Omnicom Media Group tasked women at the workplace to understand when they are experiencing burnout and work within their pace while urging company owners and leaders to support staff who are experiencing burnout and prioritize the well-being of all their staffs by providing enabling environment.

Dr. Itunu Akinware, Group Managing Director, Medbury Healthcare explained that women are often under pressure at work and home which could lead to burnout while Mrs. Sherese Ijewere, Clinical Nutrition Consultant advised women to live a healthy lifestyle and pay attention to their health.“As women we have to stay ahead of our health,” she stated.

Oluyemi Oloyede, MD/CEO, UAC Foods Limited revealed that his organization prioritizes the well-being of its staff including that of women by giving them the opportunity to access free counseling and wellness experts among other initiatives. He therefore urged companies to be deliberate about the mental health and well-being of their staff to enable them to deliver optimal results.

Remarkably, aside from expert-led panel discussion sessions, the event had lined up activities which included Wellness Sessions, Strategic Networking Sessions, Exquisite Culinary Experience, Comedy with Kenny Blaq, and After Party with DJ Anonymous.
Noteworthy, the Colours of Well-Being is designed to help people cultivate the habits that enhance their daily life and well-being.

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Health

Bridge Clinic Nigeria Set to Boost Reproductive Healthcare, Host Renowned Embryologist, Dr. Marta Jansa Perez

by Women Times on

In a significant effort towards enhancing reproductive healthcare standards, Bridge Clinic Nigeria had the honour of hosting Dr. Marta Jansa Perez, the esteemed Director of Embryology at Bridge Clinic London. This momentous visit, a testament to the partnership between the two clinics, has opened new avenues for the exchange of expertise and resources, reinforcing Bridge Clinic Nigeria’s commitment to excellence in reproductive healthcare.

Dr. Perez, a distinguished professional with an impressive academic background, arrived at Bridge Clinic Nigeria on Monday, February 19th, 2024. Her week-long visit was meticulously structured around Training, Process and Quality Improvement, Research and Development, and guidance on best practices in clinical embryology.

One of the highlights of Dr. Perez’s visit was her active involvement with the laboratory team, working closely under the leadership of Lab Manager Rashidat Shatta. The collaborative efforts focused on hands-on training for embryologists, comprehensive reviews of the Quality Management System, and Laboratory Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) to enhance existing processes and identify areas for optimization.

Dr. Perez’s wealth of experience allowed her to provide invaluable insights into innovative practices, fostering excellence and efficiency in the laboratory. Her discussions with the team also touched upon areas of research and potential publications of data.

During her stay, Dr. Perez actively participated in clinical meetings and staff development sessions, delivering impactful presentations and engaging in in-depth discussions. Her interactions extended beyond the laboratory, involving doctors and nurses, where she shared her expertise on multidisciplinary teamwork and its positive impact on client outcomes and experiences.

“We firmly believe that this period of collaboration between Bridge Clinic Nigeria and Bridge Clinic London will yield positive outcomes, particularly in our laboratory—the core of IVF treatment. Not only will it improve the quality of care we provide to our clients and the results they achieve with us, but it will also foster a culture of continuous improvement within our organization,” remarked Dr Toyin Ajayi, Medical Director at Bridge Clinic Nigeria.

This collaborative effort not only ensures that Bridge Clinic Nigeria continues to meet international benchmarks but also provides a robust platform for the training of Nigerian staff, aligning with the clinic’s commitment to excellence and continuous improvement.

As Bridge Clinic Nigeria strengthens its ties with Bridge Clinic London, this collaboration promises positive outcomes for the laboratory—the heart of IVF treatment. The collaboration also means that patients do not need to travel abroad to access care for IVF as Bridge Clinic in Nigeria operates the same rigorous quality standards that is obtainable abroad. This is especially crucial amidst the ongoing forex crisis. It also has the potential of reversing medical tourism as Nigerians in the diaspora prefer to access IVF treatment back home once they have the assurance of quality care.
About Bridge Clinic Nigeria:
Bridge Clinic Nigeria is a leading fertility clinic in Nigeria, dedicated to providing comprehensive reproductive healthcare services. With a team of highly skilled professionals and state-of-the-art facilities, we offer a wide range of fertility treatments, including in vitro fertilization (IVF), intrauterine insemination (IUI), and egg freezing. Our mission is to help individuals and couples achieve their dream of starting a family by providing personalised care and innovative solutions.

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Health

First Lady Canvasses for Regular Screening to Prevent Cervical Cancer in Nigeria

by Women Times on

The First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria Senator Oluremi Tinubu, CON has called for regular screening to prevent cervical cancer, decring the high prevalence of the cancer in the country.

 

She was speaking at the National launch of the introduction of the HPV Vaccine into the routine immunization schedule of the National Immunization Programe in Abuja.

 

She emphasized that the initiative does not end with the introduction of the vaccine into the routine immunization schedule but there must be focus on education and awareness about the virus.

 

The First Lady said regular screenings must be encouraged and there must be improved access to healthcare with behavioral interventions as well.

 

“For me, I will recommend that girls who are under 18 years of age and sexually active, avail themselves the opportunity of this vaccine, to avoid a future of ill-health and possibly, death.

 

“ In conclusion, I want to emphasize that the introduction of HPV vaccine into our routine immunization schedule is a significant step forward in our mission to protect the health and future of our nations womenfolk and it will lead to a structured and systematic way of achieving a cervical cancer free generation.”

 

Senator Oluremi Tinubu noted that the initiative goes beyond preventing cervical cancer but also demonstrating the commitment of the administration of the President Bola Tinubu GCFR’s administration to gender equity and empowering women to take control of their health.

 

Speaking earlier, the Coordinating Minister for Health and Social Welfare, Prof, Mohammed Ali Pate emphasized that the vaccine is safe, effective and already in use in several countries of the world.

 

“No father or mother who really understand they can prevent a serious disease will stop their daughters from taking the vaccine, except they really do not understand”.

 

In their goodwill messages, the Sultan of Sokoto, health sector partners and others said the introduction of the vaccine will go a long way to enhance the health of the female folk in the country.

 

The First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu then supervised the administration of the vaccine on the girls present at the event

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Health

5 Times When Women are More at Risk of Blood Clots

by Women Times on

Thrombosis, or blood clotting, can affect people of all ages, races, and genders. And while both men and women are at risk of getting a blood clot, there are several stages in a woman’s life when that risk may be higher.

 

Thrombosis is the formation of blood clots in the circulatory system, which can be dangerous if the clot blocks blood flow to vital organs, causing serious complications, such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or pulmonary embolism (PE).

 

According to the World Thrombosis Day (WTD) campaign, blood clots can happen to anyone at any time. Surgery, hospitalisation, and cancer raise the risk for everyone, but certain ages and factors in a woman’s life increase the possibility of getting a thrombosis.

 

Pregnancy
In general, women may be at a slightly higher risk of developing thrombosis during a pregnancy and shortly after delivery. A woman’s body undergoes significant hormonal changes when she is pregnant, says Dr. Helen Okoye, a leading Nigerian thrombosis specialist who is part of the World Thrombosis Day (WTD) steering committee.

 

“A pregnant woman’s blood becomes more prone to clotting to prevent excessive bleeding during childbirth, which places her at an increased risk of a DVT and PE. The risk of thrombosis remains elevated for a few weeks after childbirth. During this time, the body slowly returns to its pre-pregnancy state, and the risk of clotting decreases gradually,” explains Dr. Okoye.

Hormonal contraceptives
Some forms of hormonal contraceptives, particularly those containing estrogen, can also increase the risk of blood clot formation, although the risk is generally considered low. Women who use combined oral contraceptives (containing both estrogen and progestin) or hormone-releasing intrauterine devices (IUDs) may be at a slightly higher risk of thrombosis.

 

Hormone replacement therapy

Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) involves taking hormones to alleviate menopausal symptoms and manage hormonal imbalances. Women undergoing HRT may have an increased risk of thrombosis, particularly if the therapy includes estrogen, says Dr. Okoye. “Although the risk of thrombosis with HRT is generally low, it is higher than in women who are not taking hormone therapy. The risk may also be more for women who have additional risk factors, such as a personal or family history of blood clots, obesity, or a sedentary lifestyle. If you are using or considering HRT, discuss the potential risks with your healthcare provider,” advises Dr Okoye.

Medical conditions

Certain medical conditions, such as obesity and some inherited blood clotting disorders, can elevate the risk of thrombosis in women. Conditions that affect hormone levels, like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), can also contribute to an increased risk of thrombosis, and some autoimmune disorders, such as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), which is much more common in women, can lead to an increased risk of blood clotting. Additionally, women with specific types of cancer may have a higher probability of getting a thrombosis.

 

Strokes

If a blood clot obstructs the flow of blood to a part of the brain, it can cause a stroke, the severity of which depends on the size and location of the blocked blood vessel

Women have some differences in stroke risk compared to men, points out Dr. Okoye. Stroke is more common in women than in men, with a 1 in 4 risk of stroke for women after age 25. Stroke is also the fifth leading cause of death for women, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Women, like men, can experience strokes at any age, but there are certain life stages and factors that can increase the risk of stroke in women. “Women tend to live longer than men on average, and stroke risk increases with age. Since stroke is more common in older individuals, the longer life expectancy of women contributes to their higher overall stroke incidence,” explains Dr. Okoye.

Pregnant women, especially those with certain conditions like preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, or clotting disorders, may also have an increased risk of stroke.

The weeks following childbirth can also be a time of increased stroke risk for some women, particularly if they experienced complications during pregnancy or delivery.

Women who experience migraines with aura may also have a higher risk of stroke, especially if they have other risk factors such as smoking or using oral contraceptives. Atrial fibrillation is another red flag.

“This heart rhythm disorder is more common in women and significantly increases the risk of stroke due to the potential for blood clots forming in the heart and traveling to the brain. Hypertension is also a significant risk factor for stroke, and it can affect women at any age,” says Dr Okoye.

Lessen the risk

It is important to note that each woman’s risk of stroke or thrombosis is influenced by a combination of factors, including genetics, lifestyle, and medical history.

“Women need to be aware of their own personal risk factors and manage any existing health conditions they may have,” advises Dr Okoye. “If you’re concerned at all, consult a healthcare professional for personalised advice and risk assessment. Regular medical check-ups, adherence to prescribed medications, and a healthy lifestyle are all ways to reduce your risk of thrombosis,” she says.

“Strive to maintain a healthy weight. Being overweight or obese can increase the risk of blood clots, so follow a balanced diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats,” advises Dr Okoye. “If you smoke, stop as soon as possible. Smoking damages blood vessels and increases the risk of blood clots. And drink lots of water to keep your body well-hydrated, which can help prevent blood from thickening and forming clots.”

Staying active is crucial, too. According to the WTD campaign, regular physical activity helps improve blood circulation and reduces the risk of blood clots. WTD campaign’s

 2023 theme is “Move Against Thrombosis”, and they advise people to incorporate exercise or regular movement into their everyday routine.

 

It’s important for women to be aware of all the above risk factors and what they can do about it, concludes Dr Okoye. “If you have questions about your risk of thrombosis, it’s essential to speak with your healthcare provider. They can assess your individual risk factors and provide appropriate guidance and preventive measures if needed.”

Finally, familiarise yourself with the signs and symptoms of blood clots, such as swelling, pain, tenderness, warmth, and redness in the affected area. If you suspect a blood clot, seek immediate medical attention.

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Health

Lagos First Lady Hands Over Sick Bay to Dolphin Junior High School

by Women Times on

Lagos State First Lady, Dr. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu has handed over a modern sick bay to Dolphin Junior High School in the Simpson area of Lagos Island, saying the facility represents the commitment of the state government to the welfare and well-being of students in the state.

 

The First Lady, it would be recalled, had on December 6, 2021, visited the school in furtherance of the global 16 days of advocacy against Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) to sensitize the students on the menace of sexual abuse and harassment within the academic environment.

 

The advocacy visit also afforded the First Lady the opportunity of donating some educational equipment including laptops, industrial cooking gas, and materials on SGBV to the school.

 

As part of the activities, the school leadership had urged the First Lady to help in facilitating a sick bay in order to take care of the health of students within the academic environment, especially to administer basic life support treatment in the event of injuries and other urgent medical needs.

 

Speaking at the handing over, the First Lady said she was excited that the sick bay was now a reality and that medical personnel attached to the facility would be able to swiftly move to save lives in the event of medical emergencies.

 

“I am excited that we have delivered this project through a partnership between the Ministry of Health, Ministry of Education, and other stakeholders.

 

“The welfare and well-being of our students are paramount to the administration of Mr. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu and no stone will be left untouched to ensure that we replicate the modern sick bay in all our public schools,” the First Lady said.

In his remarks, the Principal of the school, Mr. Taiwo Akinlabi expressed profound appreciation to the First Lady, saying the facility will be properly utilized for the intended purpose.

 

He said the students were indeed appreciative of the kind gesture of the First Lady, saying the sick bay would go a long way in helping to safeguard the health of students.

 

 

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Health

Access Bank, HACEY Health Initiative Team Up to Curb Female Genital Mutilation

by Women Times on

As part of one its initiatives of supporting women, Access Bank PLC has partnered with HACEY Health Initiative to commemorate this year’a International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation (FGM).

The programme was held across  high prevalence zones and about 1,240 individuals  benefited from the education in Osun, Oyo, Ekiti and Ebonyi.

Specifically, eight schools — two schools from each of the four states — were targeted, leading to 1,068 students being impacted by the  campaign.

As a result, nine religious centres — three in Osun State and two religious centres each from Oyo, Ekiti and Ebonyi — were reached.

These efforts have contributed to the fight against FGM in Africa. However, the war is far from over. Findings by the United Nations Children Fund (UNICEF), most women in several African countries — including Egypt, Somalia, Gambia and Sierra Leone — believe the practice should be upheld. Therefore, as a global community, we need to amplify efforts to  eradicate the practice of FGM.

As the world continues to celebrate women this month, Access Bank’s W Initiative, through the platform of its forthcoming conference, would continue its charge to challenge gender stereotypes, call out discrimination, draw attention to bias, and foster women inclusion, the bank said.

In addition, the conference will provide a platform for women and their male counterparts to learn from vibrant thought leaders about the role we must play towards achieving gender parity by #Embracing Equity from a personal, sectorial and industry-led perspective.

Globally, “minority” groups have suffered some of the greatest inhumane treatments in history. From racism to colourism and sexism, these acts have adversely and irreversibly affected millions of people across the world.

Of those minorities, women have suffered many iterations of cruelty, and female genital mutilation (FGM) may be said to be the cruelest.

This ritual cutting or removal of some or all of the external female genitalia is considered a violation of human rights against children as it is mainly performed on girls between infancy and 15 years of age.

FGM has risked the lives of over 200 million young women in 30 countries of Africa, according to WHO reports, and Nigeria alone accounts for 10 per cent of global cases. The report identifies Osun state as having the highest prevalence of circumcised women in the country (77 per cent), closely followed by Ebonyi (74 per cent) and Ekiti (72 per cent).

This practice has, over time, been seen to have far-reaching, almost absolute and fatal consequences. These consequences range from complications in childbirth to hemorrhage and death.

Cumulatively, over 2,000 young girls, CBOs, traditional rulers and policymakers participated and benefitted from the programmes in the three states. In addition, about 500,000 Nigerians were reached virtually with information, education and communication materials.

Furthermore, to ensure impactful and scalable results, traditional leaders, government and community leaders were engaged in dialogue sessions to advocate for the abandonment of FGM practices in their various communities.

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Health

5 Reasons Why Some Women Bleed After Sex

by Women Times on

By: Ayobami Sanusi

 

Bleeding after sex is a little bit more common among women than their male counterparts. The medical name for this is “postcoital bleeding”. Sadly, many women experience bleeding after sex more frequently than not.

Some minor things can cause bleeding, but if you notice yourself bleeding more often, it is important to seek professional help from your doctor. According to Susan York Morris on Healthline, below are reasons why some women bleed after sex.

1. Losing virginity

This is very normal because women are born with a hymen that covers the vaginal opening. While having intercourse for the first time, it will tear causing the woman to bleed. This is the reason why some women may bleed after having sex for the first couple of times.

2. Sexually transmitted diseases(STI)

One of the symptoms of STI is bleeding during sex amongst many other symptoms. This is common among people who have chlamydia or gonorrhoea. If you find yourself bleeding after sex, it could be that you have STI.

3. Cancer

Bleeding after sex is also a common symptom of cervical or vaginal cancer. It could be that you have cancer. You should not hesitate to see your doctor immediately.

4. Vaginal dryness

If the vaginal is dry, it can lead to bleeding. One of the major factors leading to vaginal dryness is the genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM). Other factors include, having intercourse before being fully aroused friction during intercourse douching chemicals in feminine hygiene products, laundry detergents, and pools.

5. Genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM)

As a woman gets older, especially when she stops menstruating, her body produces less estrogen. When the estrogen levels are lower, several things happen to the vaginal.

As a result of the low estrogen level, the body produces less vaginal lubrication making the vaginal dry and inflamed. It also reduces the elasticity of the vagina. The vaginal tissues become more fragile and are susceptible to tearing and irritation which can lead to pain and bleeding.

 

 

 

Credit: Nigerian Tribune

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