- Purpose with Power: Patient support group drives awareness, informed choices and self-advocacy
- Beyond Diagnosis: Hormones, fertility and inflammation decoded for women across life stages
- Stronger Together: Experts, patients and caregivers unite for practical, real-world guidance
NE WOMEN EMPOWERMENT & HEALTH BUREAU
AHMEDABAD, MAR 17
In a powerful step towards women’s health empowerment, Antardhwani brought together nearly 200 participants for a focused seminar titled “Women with RA & AS: Understanding Hormones, Fertility & Inflammation” at St Xavier’s College.
The initiative underscored Antardhwani’s core aim—to equip women battling chronic autoimmune conditions with knowledge, confidence and a support ecosystem, enabling them to take informed control of their health journeys.
A safe space for informed decisions
The seminar addressed the complex intersection of Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) and Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS) with key phases of a woman’s life—pregnancy, postpartum and menopause—where hormonal changes significantly impact disease progression.
“For too long, women have managed these conditions without a clear understanding of how their own biology interacts with their diagnosis. Sunday’s event was about empowering women to have informed conversations with their doctors and take charge of their health at every stage of life,” said Dr Sapan Pandya.
Guiding women through critical life stages
Experts emphasised the need for timely medical consultation, coordinated care and lifestyle awareness.
“Taking due care when a woman plans pregnancy is very important. There should be proper coordination between her gynecologist and a rheumatologist to ensure that the patient receives the right dose without harming either the mother or her unborn child,” advised Dr Pushpa Yadava.
Highlighting a critical concern, Dr Reena Sharma cautioned, “Many patients take self-medication and come to doctors late. That is dangerous. Patients should consult an expert before starting any medication.”
Adding a nuanced perspective, Dr Pooja Srivastav said, “Pregnancy is the beauty of nature. During pregnancy, autoimmune diseases behave differently and a patient should know this so that necessary steps can be taken.”
Antardhwani’s aim: from awareness to action
By bridging rheumatology and reproductive health, Antardhwani is fostering a holistic, patient-first approach—where women are not just treated, but heard, informed and empowered.
The seminar created a platform for meaningful dialogue between patients, caregivers and specialists, helping women move from confusion to clarity, and from dependence to self-advocacy.