PreP
PrEP, or pre-exposure prophylaxis, is a daily medication for HIV-negative individuals that significantly reduces the risk of HIV infection. It works by blocking the virus from taking hold and spreading if exposed through sex or injection drug use. PrEP is highly effective when taken as prescribed, but it doesn’t protect against other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) or pregnancy.
HIV Testing
HIV testing involves using different types of tests to detect the presence of HIV in the body. These tests primarily look for HIV antibodies, antigens, or the virus itself. The most common types of tests include antibody tests, antigen/antibody tests, and nucleic acid tests (NATs). The choice of test and frequency of testing depends on individual risk factors and recommended guidelines.
Family Planning
Family planning encompasses a couple’s ability to control their fertility, enabling them to choose when to have children and to avoid unwanted pregnancies. It involves both contraception and infertility management, and ideally should involve both partners. Family planning is a crucial part of primary healthcare, impacting reproductive health, quality of life, and community well-being.
Pap Smear
A Pap smear, also known as a Pap test or cervical smear test, is a procedure to check the health of the cervix and screen for cervical cancer. It involves collecting cells from the cervix, which are then examined under a microscope for any abnormalities. These abnormal cells can be precancerous or cancerous. Pap smears can also help detect sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and other conditions like yeast or trichomonas infections.
Antenatal Care
Antenatal care, also known as prenatal care, is the healthcare provided to pregnant individuals throughout their pregnancy. It involves regular check-ups, screenings, and advice to promote a healthy pregnancy for both the mother and the baby. Antenatal care aims to detect potential problems early, manage existing conditions, and provide education on healthy lifestyle choices during pregnancy.
Posnatal Care
Postnatal care, also known as postpartum care, is the care provided to a mother and her newborn in the weeks following childbirth. It focuses on supporting the mother’s physical and mental recovery, monitoring the health of both mother and baby, and facilitating the transition to parenthood. This care is crucial for ensuring the well-being of both mother and child during this vulnerable period.
Immunization
Immunization, also known as vaccination, is a process that strengthens the body’s natural defenses against infectious diseases. It works by introducing a weakened or inactive form of a pathogen (or part of it) into the body, which triggers an immune response, building up protection against future infection. Immunization is a highly effective public health intervention, preventing millions of deaths annually from diseases.
Children's Health
Children’s health encompasses the physical, mental, and social well-being of young people from birth through adolescence. It involves ensuring access to adequate nutrition, healthcare, safe environments, and opportunities for learning and development. Prioritizing children’s health is crucial for their optimal growth and development, reducing preventable deaths, and promoting a healthy future.
Wellness Screening
A Wellness screening is a comprehensive health assessment, often an annual check-up, designed to detect potential health issues early and promote preventative care. It typically includes various tests and screenings to identify risks for conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and other chronic illnesses. These screenings can empower individuals to take proactive steps towards better health and well-being.
Blood Pressure
Eating can affect blood pressure, with dietary choices playing a significant role in both raising and lowering blood pressure levels. For individuals with high blood pressure, adopting a heart-healthy diet, like the DASH or Mediterranean diet, can be beneficial in managing blood pressure. Conversely, certain foods and eating patterns can negatively impact blood pressure.
Diabetes
Diabetes is a chronic disease where blood sugar (glucose) levels are too high, either because the body doesn’t produce enough insulin or can’t properly use the insulin it makes. Insulin is a hormone that helps glucose get into cells to be used for energy. Diabetes can lead to serious complications if not managed properly, including damage to the heart, blood vessels, eyes, kidneys, and nerves.
Cholesterol
A cholesterol test, also known as a lipid panel or lipid profile, is a blood test that measures the levels of cholesterol and other fats in your blood. Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance found in your blood and cells, vital for building cell membranes and producing hormones, vitamin D, and bile acids. While your body needs cholesterol, high levels, especially of LDL (“bad”) cholesterol, can lead to health problems like heart disease and stroke.
Minor Ailments
Minor ailments are common, self-treatable health conditions that typically do not require professional medical intervention. Examples include coughs, colds, sore throats, minor cuts and bruises, insect bites, and skin rashes. Many pharmacies offer services like “Minor Ailments Schemes” to help patients manage these conditions, often involving advice, over-the-counter medications, if necessary.
Couples HIV testing & counseling
Couples HIV testing and counseling (CHTC) involves both partners in a relationship undergoing HIV testing and receiving counseling together. This approach offers several benefits, including mutual disclosure of HIV status, increased social support, and better access to prevention and treatment options
Sanitary Pads
Dignity Organic Sanitary Pads Dignity – Long Lasting Inspiration organic pads are comfortable, thinner than a normal pad and don’t leak like normal pads would leak when there’s heavy flow. The organic pads protect and preserves one’s health while it boosting your immune system. The pads are safe and hygienic with food grade, aluminium foil with resalable opening which offers better resistance to dampness, mold and bacteria.