Mainstreaming Reproductive Mental Health of Women: The Unmet Need of the Hour
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.47203/IJCH.2025.v37i04.020Keywords:
Reproductive Mental Health, Menstruation, Postpartum, Menopause, Mental Well-being, IndiaAbstract
Background: While the existing research is limited, over recent years, there has been growing awareness to understand the mental health of women during menstruation, menopause, and postpartum. Methodology: A woman's distinct reproductive life stages adversely affect her psychological well-being, aggravated by other underlying social, economic, and cultural factors. Drawing upon the analysis of governing laws and women’s reproductive health literature. Results: The existing reproductive health law, educational, and workplace frameworks in India are inadequate for supporting the reproductive mental health of women. Conclusion: It is of critical importance to adopt a holistic approach and call for mainstreaming the reproductive mental health of women through urgent legal and healthcare reforms.
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