In the dynamic landscape of healthcare, one area that is often overlooked and under-prioritized is women’s health. This is particularly significant considering that women constitute a substantial portion of the workforce and considered the backbone of society. In the Philippines, the labor force consists of over 50 million Filipinos aged 15 years and older, with women making up 21.9 million of this total. With a labor force participation rate of 64.1% and an employment rate of 96.0% for women as of April 2024, it is evident that Filipinas play a pivotal role not only in the workforce but also in the nation’s development and resilience.
Healthcare company Organon recognizes that women’s health is a complex tapestry woven from various needs. From their teenage years, when preventing unplanned pregnancies is crucial, to their prime childbearing years and beyond, Organon offers a variety of solutions.
“Filipino women’s contribution in our society is undeniable. This is why Organon’s purpose is to create a better and healthier every day for every woman and we believe that women’s health should be prioritized at every stage of life.,” says Emmanuel Tiglao, Country Lead at Organon Philippines.
“Our diverse portfolio reflects our commitment to providing comprehensive healthcare solutions that empower women to live their best lives. From adolescence to menopause, we are here to support and advocate for their health and well-being,” Tiglao added.
Empowering women to plan their future
The decision of when—and whether—to start a family is one of the most important choices a woman can make. However, nearly half of all pregnancies worldwide (approximately 121 million annually) are estimated to be unplanned, leading to health risks and reduced educational and employment opportunities for mother and child – challenges which can span generations.
Unplanned pregnancies are in part caused by a lack of access to contraceptive information and services. Globally, of the 257 million women who want to avoid pregnancy, almost 67% are not safe, modern methods of contraception.
World Population Day, celebrated every July, underscores the critical importance of family planning in empowering individuals and societies worldwide. However, the Philippines currently grapples with one of the highest teenage pregnancy rates among ASEAN member-states, with a staggering 183,000 adolescent girls either becoming pregnant or giving birth annually. This alarming statistic surpasses global and regional averages, as reported by the United Nations Population Fund (UNPFA).
This is why Organon is actively advocating to expand access to family planning methods through multi-stakeholder collaboration that are fueling public health solutions, addressing inequities, and giving women more opportunities to pursue education and economic independence. In fact, Organon has been named to Fortune’s 2023 Change the World list for its leadership in helping women and girls around the world take control of their reproductive health.
No woman should die while giving life
Postpartum hemorrhage (also called PPH) occurs when a woman experiences heavy blood loss after giving birth. It remains the leading cause of maternal mortality worldwide. Organon believes that more options in the area of maternal health for healthcare providers and women are urgently needed. With the recent addition of a device intended to provide control and treatment of abnormal postpartum uterine bleeding or hemorrhage when conservative management is warranted to its portfolio, Organon continues to build upon the company’s vision of a better and healthier every day for HER by making sure that no woman needs to die when giving birth. This innovative solution has the potential to save countless lives and significantly reduce maternal mortality rates.
Navigating menopause with confidence
Menopause marks a significant milestone in a woman’s life, often accompanied by symptoms such as hot flashes, mood swings, and increased risk of conditions like cardiovascular diseases, dyslipidemia, and osteoporosis. Organon is dedicated to developing solutions that address these health conditions to help women navigate this transformative phase with confidence and dignity.
A holistic approach to women’s health
Organon’s initiatives extend beyond medical innovations. The company is focused on creating an environment where women feel supported and empowered to pursue their professional aspirations without compromise. By investing in initiatives focused on menopause, reproductive health, and postpartum care, Organon aims to empower women with the knowledge and resources needed to manage their health effectively.
As Organon looks to the future, its goal is to become the country’s go-to reference in women’s health. By fostering a sustainable healthcare environment where women receive the support, care, and advocacy they rightfully deserve, Organon is paving the way for a healthier and more empowered future for Filipinas.