KINS OBG Department Organizes In-Service Education Programme on “Menopause Awareness to Action”

The In-Service Education Program on “Menopause Awareness to Action” was organized by the M.Sc. 2^nd Year OBG Nursing students of Kalinga Institute of Nursing Sciences (KINS), at Sitanath Nagar, NiladriVihar. The main purpose of the program was to impart women some basic knowledge about menopause, the changes that happen during this time and how to take care of their health. The program was inaugurated by Prof. Kalyani Rath, Vice Principal and HOD, Department of OBG Nursing, KINS. She welcomed everyone and spoke about the importance of taking care of women’s health during menopause. The teachers were also present and helped the students during the program.

ASHA workers and Anganwadi Health Workers also attended the program along with the teachers and other participants. After the inauguration, the students presented the topics one by one. Ms. Biswakalpita Swain presented “Menopause: What Every Woman Should Know” and explained what menopause is and what common changes women may notice. After that, Ms. Dishari Mallick presented “The Menopause Journey”, followed by Mrs. Suhana Parween, presented “Recognize the Signs” and explained the common signs and symptoms related to menopause. The session “Caring for Yourself” was taken by Ms. Karina Dash and Mrs. Bhagyashree Das. They talked about simple ways of taking care of health during menopause, such as healthy food habits, regular physical activity, taking enough rest and looking after emotional health. They also demonstrated some simple yoga exercises and showed the participants how they can be done in daily life. The last session, “ASHA: Listen, Guide & Refer”, was presented by Ms. Pritha Chakraborty. She explained how ASHA workers and Anganwadi Health Workers can help women in the community by listening to their problems, giving proper information and guiding them to the health facility when needed.

The participants took interest in the program and actively participated in the sessions. The teachers also supported the students throughout the program, and the ASHA workers and Anganwadi Health Workers shared their experiences from the community.  The yoga demonstration made the self-care session more practical and interesting. The program was completed successfully within the given time and concluded with a vote of thanks. Overall, it was a useful program and everyone got a better understanding of menopause, self-care and the support that can be provided to women at the community level.