The Story of an Accomplished Woman | Vanita Vishwa
Dr. Sulabha Janjire Pawar
Womens Power
Could you please tell us your name and a bit about yourself?
I am Dr. Sulabha Janjire Pawar, a gynecologist. I completed my MBBS at B.J. Medical College and specialized in gynecology at Kamala Nehru Hospital, Aurangabad. At that time, I had a state rank of 129.
Why did you want to pursue a career in medicine?
My grandfather, Raghoba Tukaram Janjire, served alongside Pandit Nehru when he was imprisoned at the Bhuekot Fort. Our family was financially struggling. My grandfather had four brothers and three sisters. Two of my uncles worked as laborers, and my father was still studying. My grandfather passed away from a simple illness that could have been treated with basic medication. My father often felt that my grandfather could have been saved. Motivated by this, my father worked hard, becoming a teacher through the ‘Earn and Learn’ scheme of Rayat Shikshan Sanstha and later became an education officer through MPSC. He ensured that we, his three daughters, became doctors. My father always taught us that beyond earning, it is more important to ensure that no patient should be turned away because of a lack of money.
Given today’s lifestyle and the high costs associated with medicine, can you still offer such help to patients?
Certainly. I utilize my skills to the fullest, and if I can help even one patient, I consider myself fortunate.
It is said that you provided a lot of help during the COVID-19 pandemic. Could you tell us more about that?
The pandemic was a terrifying time for everyone. My husband and I decided to dedicate ourselves to serving others. We purchased two flats in the same building. My daughter was four years old then, and my in-laws were diabetic and had high blood pressure. For two months, I could only see my daughter from the window. We would go directly to the flats after finishing at the hospital. It was a difficult time. Since relatives weren’t allowed near patients, we provided them food and other assistance. Sometimes, our neighbors would lock their doors when we came home, which hurt a lot.
That’s truly inspiring. Nowadays, terms like PCOS and PCOD are commonly heard. Could you tell us more about these conditions?
Our changing lifestyle, sedentary work, and unhealthy eating habits, especially since the pandemic, have led to hormonal imbalances. Children lack physical activity, and their diet has changed. Irregular periods, facial hair growth, and cysts detected during sonography are common symptoms. Just doing 10 Surya Namaskars daily, avoiding junk food, and getting adequate sleep can help manage these conditions, as they are primarily lifestyle-related.
What advice would you give to women who have different work schedules?
Even with irregular work hours, they should ensure they get enough sleep and exercise. Our bodies are our responsibility, and we must take care of them.
What precautions should women take before pregnancy?
For women over 21, it’s important to remember that a Healthy mother can give birth to Healthy baby. Adopt a balanced lifestyle, avoid junk food, eat homemade meals, and take folic acid supplements for at least three months before trying to conceive.
What care should women take during menopause?
Menopause marks a significant transition in a woman’s life. When periods stop, it’s essential to gift yourself a health check-up. Regular sonographies of the abdomen, breasts, and cervix can help detect issues early on.
Doctor, with Navratri approaching, how should women care for themselves during the festival?
Women often take great care when others in the family are fasting but neglect themselves. This Navratri, treat yourself as the Annapurna, the goddess of nourishment. Ensure you eat fruits and nuts to replenish your body’s energy.
Overall, how should women take care of their health?
Every woman should dedicate at least 30 minutes a day to herself. Whether it’s walking, yoga, or any exercise, it’s important to give your body that time. Pay attention to your diet, just like how you service your vehicle regularly, service your body too.
(Interview by Deepali Mali)
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