International Women’s Day, observed every year on March 8, is a day to recognize the achievements of women and raise awareness about the challenges they continue to face. It is a global movement that highlights the need for gender equality, better opportunities, and improved well-being for women across all walks of life. One of the key areas that need urgent attention is women’s health and wellness. From reproductive health to mental well-being, ensuring access to quality healthcare is essential for empowering women and enabling them to lead healthier lives. In this article we will explore the significance of International Women’s Day 2025, the health challenges women commonly face, and the steps needed to improve healthcare access and awareness. Let’s begin.
The History and Significance of International Women’s Day
International Women’s Day (IWD) has been observed for over a century, symbolizing the fight for gender equality and women's rights. It began in the early 20th century, when women across different countries started demanding better working conditions, voting rights, and social reforms. Over the years, International Women’s Day has evolved into a global movement, with key milestones shaping its significance:
The first official Women’s Day was observed on March 19, 1911, in countries such as Austria, Denmark, Germany, and Switzerland.
In 1977, the United Nations recognized March 8 as International Women’s Day, making it a globally acknowledged event.
Over the years, the focus of IWD has expanded from women’s political and economic rights to broader issues, including healthcare, education, and safety.
International Women’s Day 2025: Theme, Logo, and Colors
Every year, International Women’s Day is marked by a unique theme that reflects the ongoing challenges and progress in gender equality. For 2025, the theme "Accelerate Action" calls for urgent and concrete steps to address inequalities, empower women, and improve their overall well-being. This theme emphasizes the need for immediate action in key areas such as healthcare, education, and economic opportunities to create lasting change.
The Symbolism Behind the Logo and Colors
Official Logo: The International Women’s Day logo typically features symbols of equality, strength, and progress. While specific variations may change each year, the imagery often represents women’s empowerment, unity, and global solidarity.
Colors of International Women’s Day: The official colors associated with IWD are purple, green, and white.
Purple symbolizes justice and dignity.
Green represents hope and growth.
White signifies purity and equality.
Organizations and individuals across the world incorporate these elements into their campaigns, events, and awareness initiatives, ensuring that the message of women’s empowerment reaches a wider audience.
Common Women’s Health Issues and Their Impact
Women’s health is a crucial aspect of overall societal well-being, yet many health concerns remain underdiagnosed and undertreated. Several physical and mental health conditions affect women differently than men, requiring a specialized approach to diagnosis, treatment, and prevention. From reproductive health disorders to chronic conditions, women face unique health challenges that require timely intervention and specialized care. Some of the most common concerns include:
Physical Health Concerns
Reproductive Health Issues: Conditions such as PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome), endometriosis, and menstrual disorders can significantly impact daily life and fertility.
Heart Disease: Often perceived as a men’s health issue, heart disease is one of the leading causes of death among women, with symptoms that may differ from those in men.
Osteoporosis: Women are at a higher risk of developing osteoporosis due to hormonal changes, particularly after menopause, leading to brittle bones and fractures.
Breast & Cervical Cancer: Regular screenings such as mammograms and Pap smears are essential for early detection and effective treatment.
Mental Health Problems in Women
Anxiety and Depression: Women are twice as likely to experience anxiety and depression due to hormonal fluctuations, societal pressures, and life transitions.
Postpartum Depression: Many new mothers struggle with mental health challenges after childbirth, affecting both their well-being and their ability to care for their newborns.
Stress-Related Disorders: Work-life balance, caregiving responsibilities, and social expectations contribute to higher stress levels in women, impacting their overall health.
Challenges in Healthcare Access
Late Diagnosis: Many women’s health conditions go undiagnosed due to lack of awareness, stigma, or misinterpretation of symptoms.
Limited Access to Healthcare: In many parts of the world, including India, women face barriers such as financial constraints, societal restrictions, and inadequate healthcare facilities.
Gender Bias in Medicine: Studies have shown that women’s pain and symptoms are sometimes not taken as seriously as men’s, leading to delays in diagnosis and treatment.
Addressing these challenges requires greater awareness, proactive healthcare measures, and policy changes to ensure women receive the medical attention they deserve.
Taking Action: Solutions for Women’s Health & Wellness
While women face several health challenges, preventive care, lifestyle changes, and better healthcare access can significantly improve their well-being. Addressing these concerns requires individual, community, and policy-level interventions to create a lasting impact.
Preventive Healthcare: Early Detection & Regular Screenings
Regular gynaecological check-ups, including Pap smears and breast exams, help detect issues like cervical and breast cancer early.
Heart health screenings such as blood pressure and cholesterol checks can reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
Bone density tests help prevent and manage osteoporosis, especially in postmenopausal women.
HPV vaccinations play a crucial role in preventing cervical cancer.
Nutritional Awareness and a Healthy Lifestyle
A well-balanced diet rich in iron, calcium, and essential vitamins is vital for maintaining women’s overall health.
Indian diet staples such as dals, green leafy vegetables, dairy products, and nuts help meet nutritional needs.
Regular physical activity, yoga, and meditation contribute to better mental and physical health.
Staying hydrated and maintaining a consistent sleep schedule can help regulate metabolism and hormones.
Mental Health Support and Awareness
Encouraging open conversations about mental health can reduce stigma and help women seek professional care when needed.
Therapy, mindfulness practices, and support groups can help manage anxiety, depression, and postpartum mental health issues.
Employers and workplaces should prioritize mental wellness initiatives to support women employees.
Policy and Social Reforms: Bridging the Gap
Government programs such as Ayushman Bharat and Rashtriya Kishor Swasthya Karyakram (RKSK) aim to improve women’s healthcare access in India.
Increased public health campaigns and community awareness initiatives can educate women on early symptom recognition and available healthcare resources.
Workplaces and institutions must implement gender-sensitive health policies, including paid maternity leave, menstrual health provisions, and flexible working hours.
By combining medical, nutritional, mental health, and policy-level initiatives, significant strides can be made in empowering women to take charge of their health and well-being.
Celebrating International Women’s Day 2025: How to Get Involved?
International Women’s Day is not just about recognition—it’s about action and change. Everyone, from individuals to organizations, can contribute towards women’s empowerment, health, and well-being. Here are some impactful ways to participate in International Women’s Day 2025:
Community Initiatives and Health Awareness Programs
Organize free health check-up camps for women, focusing on screenings for breast cancer, cervical cancer, and heart disease.
Conduct mental health awareness sessions to educate women about stress management and professional support.
Support NGOs and local organizations working on maternal health, nutrition, and healthcare accessibility.
Corporate and Institutional Efforts
Companies can promote women’s health and wellness by providing health benefits, flexible work policies, and menstrual health support.
Schools and universities can hold awareness workshops on women’s health issues, encouraging young girls to prioritize self-care.
Encourage gender diversity in leadership roles to ensure women’s voices are represented in decision-making.
Individual Actions to Support Women’s Well-Being
Encourage regular health check-ups for women in families and communities.
Share informative content on women’s health, fitness, and mental well-being to spread awareness.
Participate in fundraisers, donation drives, or volunteering efforts for women’s health initiatives.
Promote self-care and mental health practices among women to help them prioritize their well-being.
By taking small but meaningful steps, individuals and organizations can contribute to accelerating action for women’s health and wellness, making a lasting impact beyond just one day of celebration.
Why Choose Artemis Hospitals for Women’s Health?
Artemis Hospitals is committed to providing comprehensive, specialized, and patient-centric healthcare for women at every stage of life. With a multidisciplinary team and cutting-edge medical technology, Artemis Hospitals offers a wide range of services to address women’s unique health needs. Key aspects of its specialized care include:
Expert Care Across Specialties
Experienced gynaecologists, obstetricians, endocrinologists, and mental health specialists dedicated to women’s health.
Personalized treatment plans for reproductive health issues, pregnancy care, menopause management, and chronic conditions.
Multidisciplinary approach to treating breast cancer, osteoporosis, heart disease, and hormonal disorders.
Excellence in Diagnostics and Advanced Treatment
Cutting-edge technology for mammography, cervical cancer screenings, and hormonal assessments.
Advanced treatment options, including minimally invasive surgeries, robotic-assisted procedures, and fertility treatments.
State-of-the-art NICU and maternity care services for safe childbirth and newborn care.
Patient-Centered, Compassionate Care
A holistic approach focusing on preventive healthcare, mental wellness, and post-treatment recovery.
Women-friendly infrastructure ensures comfort, privacy, and a stress-free medical experience.
Support programs, including counselling, nutritional guidance, and wellness workshops.
Artemis Hospitals strives to empower women by providing accessible, high-quality healthcare, ensuring that every woman receives the attention and care she deserves.
Conclusion
Empowering women through better healthcare is essential for building a healthier society. On International Women’s Day 2025, the theme "Accelerate Action" reinforces the urgency of prioritizing women’s health, from preventive care to mental well-being. Artemis Hospitals is committed to providing comprehensive women’s healthcare services, advanced diagnostics, and expert-led treatments.
To book an appointment with a specialist at Artemis Hospitals, call +91-124-451-1111 or WhatsApp +91 9599285476. You can also schedule an appointment through our online patient portal or download and register on the Artemis Personal Health Record mobile app, available for both iOS and Android devices.
Article By Dr. Nidhi Rajotia (Goel)
Sr. Consultant - Obstetrics & Gynaecology
Artemis Hospitals
Frequently Asked Questions
How does hormonal imbalance affect women’s health?
Hormonal fluctuations in women can lead to irregular menstrual cycles, weight gain, mood swings, fertility issues, and conditions like PCOS and thyroid disorders. Managing hormonal health through diet, exercise, stress management, and medical consultation is crucial for overall well-being.
What are some workplace challenges that impact women’s health?
Women often face workplace stress, lack of maternity benefits, menstrual health challenges, and inadequate mental health support. Organizations can improve women’s well-being by implementing flexible work policies, wellness programs, and gender-sensitive health benefits.
How can women protect their bone health as they age?
Women are at a higher risk of osteoporosis, especially after menopause. To maintain bone health, it is essential to consume calcium-rich foods (such as dairy, leafy greens, and nuts), get enough vitamin D, engage in weight-bearing exercises, and undergo regular bone density screenings.
Why is mental health awareness important for women?
Women are more likely to experience stress, anxiety, depression, and postpartum mental health disorders due to societal pressures, hormonal changes, and life responsibilities. Encouraging mental health conversations, seeking professional help, and practicing self-care can significantly improve emotional well-being.
What lifestyle changes can help prevent common women’s health issues?
Adopting a healthy diet, maintaining an active lifestyle, managing stress, getting regular medical check-ups, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can help prevent many health issues such as heart disease, diabetes, and reproductive disorders.
How can International Women’s Day drive real change for women’s health?
International Women’s Day serves as a platform for raising awareness, advocating for policy changes, and promoting access to better healthcare for women. It encourages governments, healthcare institutions, and organizations to take actionable steps, such as launching health initiatives, improving maternal care, and addressing gender disparities in medical research and treatment.
