Social norms often control women’s lives. Dr. Syed Azizurrab, CEO of Green Star, talks about important issues around women’s health and family planning. The conversation, hosted by Zainab on MomCast, looks into a matter that affects millions of lives across Pakistan.
The Hidden Struggle
Dr. Azizurrab describes the challenges faced by women in Pakistan. From multiple pregnancies to lack of nutrients, the impact on women’s bodies is huge. He reveals that 60% of women in the Green Star network have anemia, while 80% lack vital vitamin D. These numbers represent countless lives at risk.
A New Way of Thinking
The talk then moves to the idea of “waqf” in birth – a choice to space out pregnancies. This simple but powerful idea can change maternal and child health. By letting women’s bodies recover between pregnancies, families can break the cycle of poverty and poor health that affects many communities.
Speaking Up
One of the most important parts of the conversation is the focus on open communication. Dr. Azizurrab supports couple counseling, encouraging partners to talk about family planning. He challenges the idea that these topics are forbidden, instead saying they are essential for building strong, healthy families.
A Complete Approach to Family Planning
Green Star’s approach is more than just birth control. The organization uses community health officers, known as “Sitara Bajis,” who connect with women personally. These local heroes provide valuable support, helping with everything from menstrual hygiene to breast cancer awareness. Their work shows how grassroots movements can make real change.
Empowering Young People
Perhaps most inspiring is Green Star’s focus on youth. Through programs like the “Suno Saheli Campaign,” they’re giving young people the knowledge and confidence to make informed decisions about their bodies and futures. This forward-thinking approach could break cycles of misinformation and powerlessness that have lasted for generations.
As the conversation ends, there’s a feeling of hope. Dr. Azizurrab’s passion and Green Star’s new ideas offer a glimpse of a better future for women and families across Pakistan. For those interested in family planning and its impact, the full video provides an even deeper look at these critical issues. It’s worth watching for anyone interested in women’s health, family life, and social change in South Asia.