Women with uterine prolapse seek treatment more openly

By Rajkumar Bhattarai, Khotang, Jan 23: Women have begun to seek medical treatment openly for uterine prolapse and related reproductive health problems.

 In the past, many women avoided discussing such conditions due to shame, fear and lack of awareness.

 Now, they come forward without hesitation to receive medical care.

Local governments across Khotang district have started providing treatment to women suffering from uterine disorders.

About three years ago, health camps organised by local authorities attracted very few women.

At present, women actively participate in uterine screening programmes, said Khemraj Acharya, Health Section Coordinator of Diktel Rupakot Majhuwagadhi Municipality.

With the support of the Community Service Foundation Bhaktapur, local governments in Khotang provide free treatment, including surgery, to women with uterine problems.

Health workers treat women diagnosed with first- and second-stage uterine prolapse at ward level.

Acharya Said,’’ doctors refer women who reach the third and fourth stages to Sheer Memorial Hospital in Banepa for surgery.’’

Diktel Rupakot Majhuwagadhi Municipality, Halesi Tuwachung Municipality and Rawa Besi Rural Municipality organised reproductive morbidity camps Mid-January.

More than 1,200 women underwent uterine examinations during the camps.

 Halesi Tuwachung Municipality has already sent 18 women to Sheer Memorial Hospital for surgery, where doctors continue treatment, AHW Bibek Parajuli from the municipal health section shared, respectively.

Among 36 women identified for surgery at the Diktel Rupakot Majhuwagadhi Municipality camp, the municipality transported 18 women to the hospital on Magh 8 by reserving a vehicle, Acharya said.

The municipality plans to take the remaining 18 women within a few days.

Similarly, health workers identified 21 women requiring surgery at the Rawa Besi Rural Municipality camp.

The rural municipality has started preparations to send them to the same hospital soon, said Health Section Chief Kaushal Adhikari.

In previous years, women often hid uterine health problems due to social stigma, fear and lack of knowledge.

Now, women voluntarily attend screening programmes and seek treatment without embarrassment, health workers said.

Local governments manage free transportation, accommodation and meals for patients and their attendants.

 With the support of the Community Service Foundation Bhaktpur, women receive surgical treatment free of cost.