Experts hail implementation of hysterectomy guidelines to curb unnecessary hysterectomies

Leading health experts on Thursday highlighted that better implementation of hysterectomy guidelines issued by health ministry along with integrated awareness efforts by all stakeholders as the way forward to curb the growing number of unnecessary hysterectomies at 2nd edition of Preserve the Uterus National Summit.

The expert said that evidence suggests that hysterectomy is associated with major chronic conditions including an increased risk of cardiovascular events, cancers, depression, metabolic disorders, and dementia.  A nation-wide campaign ‘Preserve the Uterus’ that was launched by Bayer’s Pharmaceuticals, IHW Council and Federation of Obstetric and Gynaecological Societies of India (FOGSI) to raise awareness among women on contemporary issues.

Speaking on the occasion, Deepak Chopra, Bayer Zydus Pharma said, “Awareness is the key to initiate informed decision making when it comes to women’s health and hence awareness campaigns are essential to ensure women are equipped to make smarter, timely, informed decisions about their health.”  He emphasised on the significance of Public-private partnerships (PPPs) in addressing complex health challenges in women’s health in the country.

While emphasising on the importance of prioritising women’s health, Dr Hrishikesh Pai, President-Elect, FOGSI, said, “Capacity building of healthcare professionals for better health outcomes and uterine preserving therapies is a must. A healthy nation can be raised by healthy women and hence women health should be the priority for all.”

In a span of almost 2 years, the unique campaign has worked pro-actively to inform women about the consequences of hysterectomy, encouraging them to make well-informed choices for their physical and mental wellbeing. The National Summit also witnessed the compilation of recommendations on the execution of the guidelines and an overview of hysterectomies in the country in the form of a White Paper.

While taking part in the discussion Mr. Kamal Narayan, CEO of IHW Council observed, “Health of women in paramount to ensure the health of communities and the nation. The rise in social media usage, particularly in rural areas, makes initiatives like Preserve the Uterus crucial for promoting health awareness. By prioritizing women’s reproductive health our efforts can contribute significantly to eradicating stigmas associated with it and ensuring both her physical and emotional well-being. The use of culturally sensitive and easily understandable information is essential in this regard.”