From the Desk of a Gynecologist: What Does Women’s Day Mean to Us?

By
Dr. Reena Wani
-

Abstract

International Women’s Day 2026 highlights the need for collective action to achieve gender parity under the theme “Give To Gain.” The article emphasizes the role of healthcare professionals, particularly gynecologists, in promoting women’s health, encouraging screening for diseases, addressing violence against women, and empowering women to make informed health choices in pursuit of a more equal and inclusive society.

Keywords: International Women’s Day, Give To Gain, Gynecologists, Equality, Empowerment

Introduction

There is ongoing global change, international upheavals, local, political and financial turmoil. Every day the newspapers bring some disappointing or disturbing news. Many issues are related directly or indirectly to women.

We are all aware that 8th March is celebrated globally as International Women’s Day (IWD), with focus on different theme every year. IWD was first recognized by the UN in 1977 to honour women’s social, economic, cultural and political achievements, though it has earlier roots in the labour movements of the early 20th century. Last year the call was to step forward in solidarity to help #AccelerateAction. The theme for 2025 was “For ALL Women and Girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment”

Current Theme

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The 2026 theme focuses on collective action for gender parity. In India, a separate National Women’s Day is observed on February 13th to mark the birth anniversary of Sarojini Naidu, a key figure in our freedom struggle.

Key details regarding International Women’s Day 2026 are as follows-

  • Theme: The 2026 campaign theme is “Give To Gain,” encouraging solidarity and action to advance women’s rights and equality.1
  • Focus: The day highlights the need toward gender equality, as studies indicate women still face significant legal gaps compared to men worldwide.
  • Events: Across the country, many activities are planned such as women’s bike and car rallies, “Six Yard Run” in Bengaluru and public health forums. We are also planning sensitisation talks on workplace-based harassment and the POSH Act 2013.

 “With great power, comes great responsibility”– Uncle Ben in Spiderman.

Gynaecologist’s Perspective

We as gynaecologists are the torch-bearers of women’s health and often act as the primary care-givers especially in our country. As members of our doctors’ organisations like MOGS/IMA/FOGSI, we have to take this job very seriously as some of our actions may change the lives of not just the women but the entire family. Screening for cancers of breast, cervix and oral cavity has become a health priority at government level too and non-communicable diseases including hypertension and diabetes are to be watched out for. We have to encourage our women to focus on themselves and get tested.

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Violence against Women and Girls (VAWG) is another troublesome menace which needs to be tackled.2 A resurgence of issues after 8 years of #meToo movement is being seen, with many women speaking up. The Epstein Files are in the news almost daily and prominent personalities are facing the heat. However, we have to work collectively to make a change and see better outcomes.

“You can’t have a better tomorrow if you are thinking about yesterday all the time”

Hence, we should focus on situations and challenges we see and look into how we can make a difference. This applies to day-to-day scenarios to be faced by each one of us- whether it’s gender discrimination in workplace or sexual abuse in not-so-obvious forms.

Conclusion

Let us pledge together this Women’s Day 2026 to hold hands, help and empower our women to make healthy choices by giving them access and opportunities. Imagine a gender equal world. A world free of bias, stereotypes and discrimination. A world that’s diverse, equitable and inclusive. A world where difference is valued and celebrated. Together we can forge gender equality. Get ready for #IWD2026. #GiveToGain.

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References

  1. International Women’s Day 2026 theme is ‘Give To Gain.’ Available from https://www.internationalwomensday.com/Theme
  2. Violence against Women and Girls (VAWG). Available from https://www.care.org/our-work/health/violence-against-women-and-girls/

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