Severe Menstrual Cramps: PMOS and frequent urinary tract infections are among the health problems of women that are often ignored as normal.

Why period pain shouldn't be ignored

Why Period Pain Should Not Be Ignored: Period pain, PMOS, and recurring urinary tract infections are among the health problems women face that are often overlooked as normal. For generations, women have been told that painful periods, irregular periods, or a burning sensation during urination are common. Gradually, many women learn to live with these problems and even begin to plan their daily routines around these symptoms. But the common occurrence of a problem does not mean that it is normal.

Unknown for many years

According to Divya Balaji Kamerkar, CEO and co-founder of Pinky's Promise, this generalized perception of women's health issues becomes a major obstacle to timely treatment. She says that many women go years without realizing something is wrong with their bodies because they are constantly told by those around them that this happens to every woman.

Millions of women in India suffer from this.

Millions of women in India are affected by menstrual problems, PMOS, and UTIs. Research published in the JAMA Network highlights the growing burden of polycystic ovarian disease among Indian women. Several national studies have also shown that this problem is rapidly increasing, and a large number of women remain untreated for long periods. Despite this, open discussions on these topics are rare. Women often seek advice from friends, search for home remedies online, or adapt to the circumstances.

Every year, one in five women is a victim.

Divya Balaji Kamerkar explains that approximately one in five women is estimated to be affected by PMOS. UTIs are one of the most common reasons women visit hospitals or clinics. Period-related problems are also experienced by almost every woman to some degree. This is why these symptoms are often not taken seriously.

When should period pain not be considered normal?

Experts say that if period pain is so severe that it interferes with daily activities, it shouldn't be considered normal. Problems like excessive bleeding, dizziness, persistent fatigue, nausea, or unbearable cramps could be signs of conditions like endometriosis, adenomyosis, fibroids, thyroid disorders, or PMOS. Similarly, recurring UTIs aren't just a temporary problem; they could point to a deeper underlying health issue. While teleconsultations, digital health platforms, and online communities have made it easier to seek help, the biggest shift is in mindset.