In some countries, access to information about reproductive health is a given, whereas in some developing and poorer countries access to safe, unbiased information about fertility and fertility methods are hard to come by. In these countries, reproductive health problems contribute to the death and illness of countless women and girls of childbearing age.
In developing and developed countries, as well as suffering from unplanned pregnancies, women and girls may not be able to access abortion services, appropriate care for their newborn or able to seek treatment and information about sexually transmitted disease.
Improving the reproductive lives of all
The availability of accurate information, education and essential health supplies, including contraceptives will ensure the best possible outcomes for the reproductive health of young and old in all countries. Identifying where inequalities in sexual and reproductive health exist may lead to services and programs to:
- offer comprehensive reproductive education including family planning and information about sexually transmitted disease
- providing safe and appropriate prenatal and antenatal care for mothers and children
- testing
- providing diagnosis and effective treatment of sexually transmitted diseases, including HIV and hepatitis, cervical cancer and other reproductive health issues
- offering affordable contraceptive options to all
- reducing and eliminating stigma about sexuality, health and reproductive issues
- offering young people and adolescents the choice of appropriate treatment and services related to their reproductive health
- delivering reproductive services and treatments to disadvantaged communities.
Image caption: Looking into reproductive health from new perspectives.
Image credit: Bigstock