CHRISTMAS is traditionally a season of joy, generosity and togetherness. Yet for many women across Jamaica, this year’s festive period arrives under the shadow of hardship. In the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa, countless families are still rebuilding physically, emotionally and financially. For women and girls, these challenges often translate into neglected health needs, particularly for those already living with limited resources.

As we celebrate, it is important to remember that women’s health does not pause for holidays or disasters. In fact, times of crisis often expose the gaps in how we care for the most vulnerable among us.

Nutrition and survival during the holidays

For women affected by recent flooding and displacement, access to nutritious food may be inconsistent. While Christmas is often associated with indulgence, many women are simply trying to make ends meet.

Where possible, women should aim to:

Eat regularly, even if meals are simple

Stay hydrated, especially in warmer conditions

Avoid prolonged fasting, which can worsen fatigue and hormonal imbalance.

Community support such as sharing meals, food drives and neighbourly care can make a meaningful difference.

The overlooked crisis of period poverty

One of the most silent yet profound challenges faced by women after natural disasters is period poverty. Following Hurricane Melissa, many women and girls lost access to basic menstrual products due to damaged homes, disrupted supply chains and financial strain.

Menstruation does not stop because of hardship. When women lack access to sanitary pads, tampons or menstrual cups, they are at increased risk of infections, missed school or work, loss of dignity and emotional distress.

Period poverty is not just a hygiene issue, it is a public health and human rights concern. This Christmas season is an opportunity for individuals, organisations and policymakers to prioritise menstrual health support through donations, community outreach and sustained advocacy.

Mental health in the wake of disaster

The emotional toll of hurricanes, combined with holiday pressures, can be overwhelming. Women often shoulder the emotional labour of families such as comforting children, managing households and holding everything together whilst unfortunately neglecting their own well-being.

Persistent anxiety, sadness, irritability or emotional numbness should not be dismissed as “holiday stress.” Mental health support, whether through counselling, faith based support or trusted conversations, is essential.

Alcohol, coping and caution

In stressful times, alcohol may be used as a coping mechanism, particularly during festive gatherings. However, excessive alcohol consumption can worsen depression, disrupt sleep and increase vulnerability to unsafe situations.

Pregnant women should be reminded that no amount of alcohol is safe during pregnancy, regardless of circumstance.

Sexual and reproductive health still matters

Displacement and instability can also affect sexual and reproductive health. Additionally, the festive season can also lead to more unprotected intercourse that can cause unwanted pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections. Women should continue to:

Use contraception if pregnancy is not planned

Practise safe sex

Seek medical care for abnormal bleeding, pain or infections.

Health concerns should never be postponed simply because it is Christmas or because “others have it worse”.

Listening to women’s bodies

We are brought up in a society to “normalise the abnormal”. Many women unfortunately normalise certain signs and symptoms believing it is something they must endure. However, persistent symptoms such as pelvic pain, irregular bleeding, severe menstrual cramps, painful intercourse or extreme fatigue deserve attention.

Your health is valid, even in times of the festive season and post Hurricane Melissa.

This Christmas, as we exchange gifts and goodwill, let us also extend compassion to women affected by Hurricane Melissa and those quietly battling period poverty. Supporting women’s health means supporting families, communities and the nation as a whole.

True celebration includes care, dignity and empathy for ourselves and for one another.

Dr Daryl Daley is a cosmetic gynaecologist and obstetrician. He is located at 3D Gynaecology Limited, 23 Tangerine Place, Kingston 10. Feel free to contact Dr Daley at ddaley@3dgynae.com.

Dr Daryl Daley