For many women, discomfort has become normalised. Painful periods are brushed off as 'part of being a woman', irregular cycles are blamed on stress, and fertility worries are often postponed for “later”. Between work deadlines, family commitments and everyday life, reproductive health tends to slip quietly to the bottom of the list, until it can’t be ignored anymore.
The truth is, reproductive health issues are far more common than we like to admit. Yet stigma, embarrassment and long-standing taboos mean many women continue to suffer in silence, delaying doctor visits and missing out on early diagnosis.
According to Dr Amrita Singh, Fertility Specialist at Nova IVF Fertility, Preet Vihar, Delhi, routine screenings and timely tests are not just about fertility; they’re about protecting a woman’s overall health at every stage of life.
When 'Normal' Symptoms Aren’t Actually Normal
Many reproductive conditions don’t arrive loudly. They show up subtly, a cycle that keeps changing, periods that feel heavier than before, unexplained weight fluctuations or persistent pelvic discomfort. Over time, these symptoms are often normalised or ignored.
Dr Singh explains that women may experience issues such as hormonal imbalances, PCOS, fibroids, endometriosis, infections or fertility challenges, often without realising that medical support is needed.
Some warning signs that should never be overlooked include:
- Irregular, painful or excessively heavy periods
- Pelvic pain or a constant feeling of pressure
- Vaginal discharge with an unusual odour
- Pain during intercourse
- Sudden weight changes or excessive hair growth
- Difficulty conceiving
“Early reporting of symptoms allows us to investigate the root cause and intervene before the condition worsens,” says Dr Singh.
The Screenings Every Woman Should Be Aware Of
Preventive care is one of the most effective tools in women’s health, yet it’s also the most underused. Regular screenings can detect problems long before they turn serious, often when treatment is simpler and outcomes are better.
Key tests recommended by experts include:
- Pap smear: Helps detect early or pre-cancerous changes in the cervix
- HPV test: Screens for high-risk strains of the human papillomavirus linked to cervical cancer
- Pelvic ultrasound: Checks for fibroids, ovarian cysts and other structural concerns
- Hormonal blood tests: Assess thyroid function, AMH levels and reproductive hormone balance
- Mammograms: Important for early breast health screening, especially after the age of 35
- STI screenings: Identify infections like chlamydia or gonorrhoea that may impact fertility
“These tests are not only diagnostic, they’re preventive,” Dr Singh adds. “They help us build a personalised care plan rather than reacting when symptoms escalate.”
Beyond Tests: Everyday Choices That Matter
While screenings are crucial, reproductive health is also shaped by daily habits. A balanced diet, regular physical activity and stress management play a significant role in hormonal balance and menstrual health.
Experts recommend:
- Eating nutrient-rich meals that support hormonal health
- Staying physically active
- Managing stress through yoga, meditation or mindful movement
- Avoiding smoking and limiting alcohol intake
- Scheduling regular check-ups, even in the absence of symptoms
When necessary, fertility treatments can further support women dealing with PCOS, endometriosis, hormonal issues or unexplained infertility. Options may include medications, lifestyle guidance or assisted procedures such as IUI or IVF, depending on individual needs.
Taking Charge Starts With a Conversation
Reproductive health isn’t something to be addressed only when pregnancy is planned or pain becomes unbearable. It’s an ongoing part of a woman’s wellbeing, one that deserves attention, awareness and care.
“Timely diagnosis allows us to choose the right treatment and significantly improve outcomes,” says Dr Singh. “But it starts with women feeling comfortable enough to speak up.”
Breaking the silence around reproductive health may feel uncomfortable at first, but it’s one of the most powerful steps women can take for themselves.