Women’s Reproductive Mental Health in Pakistan
摘要
This chapter explores the critical yet under-addressed issue of reproductive mental health for women in Pakistan, highlighting its significant implications for public health. It examines the prevalence of mental health disorders during key reproductive phases such as menstruation, pregnancy, postpartum, and menopause, with a particular focus on the socio-cultural and contextual factors that contribute to these mental health challenges. The chapter discusses the barriers women face in accessing reproductive psychiatric care, including the shortage of trained professionals, the lack of integration between reproductive and mental health services, and societal stigma. It also reviews current initiatives, such as the Lady Health Worker Program and tele-psychiatry services, which aim to address these gaps in care. Finally, the chapter outlines opportunities for expanding reproductive psychiatric care, with an emphasis on culturally sensitive approaches and community-based strategies to improve access to care for women across the country.