Questions about Sexual and reproductive health
Short answers, pulled from the story.
What is sexual and reproductive health as defined by the World Health Organization?
The WHO's 2006 working definition describes sexual health as a state of physical, emotional, mental, and social well-being in relation to sexuality, not merely the absence of disease or dysfunction. It requires a positive and respectful approach to sexuality, the possibility of safe and pleasurable sexual experiences, and freedom from coercion, discrimination, and violence. Sexual rights of all persons must be respected, protected, and fulfilled for sexual health to be attained.
How many women worldwide lack access to family planning?
In developing regions, approximately 214 million women want to avoid pregnancy but are unable to use safe and effective family planning methods. Africa has the lowest contraceptive use rate of any region at 33% and the highest rate of unmet need for contraceptives at 22%.
What were the outcomes of the 1994 International Conference on Population and Development on reproductive health?
The International Conference on Population and Development was held in Cairo from the 5th to the 13th of September 1994, with delegations from 179 states. It produced a Programme of Action that defined reproductive health broadly and endorsed goals including reducing maternal mortality and expanding access to family planning services. Abortion was so contested that delegates omitted any recommendation to legalize it, instead calling for post-abortion care and programs to reduce unwanted pregnancy.
What are the health consequences of female genital mutilation?
Female genital mutilation has no health benefits and causes severe pain, hemorrhage, risk of tetanus or sepsis, urine retention, cysts, and increased risk of infertility and childbirth complications. Women who have undergone FGM are 1.5 times more likely to experience sexual problems and twice as likely to report a lack of sexual desire. A 2018 study found elevated cortisol levels in women who experienced FGM, indicating heightened risk for PTSD and other trauma disorders.
How many unsafe abortions occur globally each year and where do they happen?
An estimated 25 million unsafe abortions occur globally each year, with the vast majority taking place in developing countries in Africa, Asia, and Latin America. In 2005, between 19 and 20 million abortions were estimated to have resulted in complications, and approximately 68,000 women died from unsafe procedures that year.
What workplace hazards affect reproductive health in women and men?
More than 1,000 workplace chemicals have been shown to cause reproductive effects in animals, though most have not been studied in humans. Hazards for women include pesticides, polychlorinated biphenyls, organic solvents, lead, ionizing radiation, and nitrous oxide, which can disrupt menstrual cycles, cause infertility, or harm a developing fetus. Documented male reproductive hazards include lead, mercury vapor, dibromochloropropane, ethylene dibromide, and high levels of radiation, which can damage sperm count, shape, and chromosomal integrity.