A look at the health status of women in modern Iranian society

It is true that with the advancement of science and the increase of public awareness, the health status of women in Iranian society has improved just like in other parts of the world. But Iran is still a relatively traditional society in which the emphasis on old beliefs sometimes prevents the improvement of Iranian women’s health and compliance with international standards.
We are not going to look at the health of Iranian women with a comprehensive approach of the World Health Organization. According to this organization, the issue of health is divided into 4 dimensions of physical, mental, social and spiritual health.

Traditional beliefs that govern society

The Iranian society’s view of women is a relatively traditional and old one. It is still seen that simple rights such as raising awareness of the sexual needs of girls among Iranian parents are a distasteful concept. In such an environment, how can girls be expected to consult their parents about unwanted pregnancies, irregular menstruation, hormonal changes, and the like? How can one expect to be able to see a gynecologist in time?
Many young Iranian mothers and daughters, meanwhile, are comparing their current holdings with the rights that Western culture gives to women and seeking to achieve such rights. Issues such as sexual health, healthy relationships, having the authority to have children, and ongoing medical examinations are not something that can be denied in modern times.

The Internet as a tool of liberation

With the advent of the Internet and its spread among the people, Iranian girls and women have become more and better informed about their rights. That gender should not be denied and that necessities such as access to a doctor, health supplies, regular tests, and the like should not be overlooked.
If in the past many women were unaware of their gender issues, now, thanks to access to the Internet and social media, they can access first-hand information about themselves. Women can now work in their own communities and even raise awareness among other women. Women’s activism on social media can play an important role in making their voices heard and pushing them out of a marginalized gender. These efforts, while increasing women’s awareness, can also have a positive effect on men’s thinking and eventually lead to a change in traditional thinking about women and their needs.
If in the past women could not see a gynecologist due to embarrassment and such reasons, now they can access the doctor regardless of the distance and distance by using a medical consultation with a gynecologist and by phone or chat with Contact several specialist doctors.

Unequal distribution of health facilities throughout the country

Iran is a vast country and educational and health facilities are not evenly distributed in all parts of it. We are still witnessing poor health conditions in many border areas of the country, including Sistan and Baluchestan, Ilam and Kurdistan, and in the meantime, women’s health has been affected by the general situation. Many deprived cities in the country still do not have local hospitals and health centers and have to go to neighboring cities or provincial centers for simple tasks. This causes many women and girls to underestimate their sexuality compared to other illnesses, and to think that by covering up these needs, they think in favor of a larger whole, the family.

What to do?

Expanding education and facilitating the activities of social institutions is the only solution that can be considered in the short term. NGOs and social activists should have the opportunity to raise the level of awareness of women and Iranian society in general about health issues.
But this is not something for which we can only look for a local or regional solution. Following the decisions made in international forums can benefit us from collective wisdom and improve the health and well-being of Iranian women.
If we are looking for a vibrant and healthy society, we must value the health of women in society as a necessity.