Why Women’s Health Must Be Looked at Holistically

Women’s health is often viewed through a narrow medical lens, with gynaecological issues being treated as isolated conditions rather than part of a broader, interconnected system. However, a holistic approach, one that considers physical, emotional, mental, and social well-being is essential for improving outcomes and ensuring that women receive the comprehensive care they deserve.

A holistic approach to women’s health means recognising that gynaecological issues do not exist in a vacuum. Conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), endometriosis, fibroids, and menopause are not just medical diagnoses; they impact women’s mental health, relationships, work, and overall quality of life. By addressing only the physical symptoms, we risk neglecting the deeper, long-term effects these conditions have on women’s daily lives.

There is growing evidence that mental and emotional health significantly impact physical well-being. For example:

• Stress and Reproductive Health: Chronic stress can disrupt hormonal balance, exacerbating conditions like PCOS, painful periods, and fertility challenges.

• Anxiety and Menstrual Health: Women experiencing high levels of anxiety may notice irregular cycles or worsened symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS).

• Trauma and Pelvic Health: Women with a history of trauma, including birth trauma or past medical neglect, often experience heightened sensitivity to pain and difficulty accessing appropriate care.

  
  

A holistic approach means integrating mental health support, stress management techniques, and trauma-informed care into gynaecological treatment plans.

Women’s health is also shaped by external factors such as socio-economic status, cultural expectations, and access to healthcare. For instance:

• Women from marginalised communities may face barriers to early diagnosis and treatment.

• Workplace policies often fail to accommodate conditions like severe period pain or perimenopause symptoms, forcing many to struggle in silence.

• The stigma around gynaecological issues prevents open conversations, leading to delayed care and worsening health outcomes.

  
  

Holistic care must include policy changes that support menstrual health in workplaces, better education around reproductive health, and inclusive healthcare systems that recognise the diverse experiences of all women.

A holistic approach also acknowledges the importance of lifestyle factors in managing gynaecological health. Research shows that:

• Nutrition plays a vital role in hormone regulation and inflammation control.

• Exercise and movement can help manage conditions like endometriosis and PCOS by improving circulation and reducing stress.

• Complementary therapies such as acupuncture, herbal medicine, and mindfulness can offer additional relief for chronic gynaecological conditions.

  
  

Rather than treating symptoms in isolation, women should have access to a range of options that support their overall well-being.

For too long, women’s health has been approached in a fragmented way, with gynaecological concerns often dismissed or under-treated. A holistic approach ensures that women are seen, heard, and treated as whole individuals rather than a collection of symptoms.

This requires:

✅ More research into the links between gynaecological health, mental health, and lifestyle factors.

✅Improved education and awareness to reduce stigma and misinformation.

✅ Policy changes that make healthcare more accessible and inclusive.

✅ A shift towards person-centred care that values women’s voices and lived experiences.

At Mayah’s Legacy, we believe in advocating for holistic, compassionate, and person-centred care for all women. By looking at women’s health through a broader lens, we can create a future where women no longer suffer in silence but are empowered with the knowledge, support, and care they need to thrive.