Global healthcare company Organon recently held a forum that initiated conversations on urgent and less talked-about concerns of women: hormonal transitions and unintended pregnancies.
Titled “Women’s Health Unveiled: Insights Into Hormonal Shifts and Unplanned Pregnancies,” the event gathered medical professionals in obstetrics and gynecology and women’s health advocates to discuss the current challenges and opportunities to optimize women’s health in the country.
Dr. Bernabe Marinduque zeroed in on the prevalence and impact of unintended pregnancies, an issue that continues to affect millions of women across the world. His talk discussed the barriers that prevent women from accessing contraceptive services, the stigma surrounding unplanned pregnancies, and the sobering statistics on unplanned pregnancies in the Philippines.
As a means to address this challenge, Dr. Bernabe highlighted the importance of education, open conversations, integrating family planning into various healthcare services and promoting behavioral changes in women.
His talk emphasized the importance of giving women access to contraception, accurate health information, and supportive healthcare systems to empower them in making informed choices about their reproductive health.
Another critical topic covered was the impact of hormonal shifts on women’s health. In her talk, Dr. Eileen Manalo, explained how hormonal changes can significantly affect a woman’s physical and mental well-being. She discussed the declining fertility rate in the country and how it affects economic resilience. She also underscored the need for better awareness and access to healthcare solutions that address hormonal changes, allowing women to take proactive steps in managing their health.
“As healthcare providers, we should give our patients access to reliable contraception, which should be offered to women from all walks of life. It empowers women and their partners to make informed, reproductive choices, supports gender equality, and reduces the burden on health care systems,” Dr. Manalo said.
The forum also underscored that oral contraceptives not only helps regulate women’s hormones amid hormonal shifts, but also empowers them in having better control of their bodies. Organon introduced ultra-low dose combination oral contraceptive pills that contain desogestrel and ethinyl estradiol to the Philippines, and explained how this can be highly beneficial for women due to its many benefits.
Organon will continue to provide open forums and discussions that foster better healthcare choices for women. With more events planned in the coming months, the company aims to create a lasting impact by highlighting the importance of women’s health and driving meaningful change within the healthcare system.
