What is Reproductive Health?
It is defined as a state of complete physical, mental and social well being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity in all matters related to the reproductive system and to its function and processes
Reproductive Health Concept
Reproductive Health is therefore centred on human needs and development throughout the life cycle – often tagged - from “womb to tomb” or “cradle to grave.” The Reproductive Health concept is not limited to women alone, men too have reproductive needs.
The well being of men, women and young people as concerns their reproductive functions throughout the life span. Women should go through pregnancy and childbirth without danger to themselves or their children. Prevention of unintended pregnancies and diseases spread through sexual intercourse
Women’s Reproductive Health
Interest in women’s reproductive health came into limelight in the last decade in response to the persistently high levels of maternal and child morbidity and mortality and the Scourge of HIV. A few years ago it was realized that reproductive and sexual rights are important factors in human development, hence the concept is centred on development throughout the life cycle – from birth to old age. The reproductive health of women is important not only for their well-being but for that of the family and indeed the survival of the nation.
Why Women’s Reproductive Health?
• 1 in 16 risk of an African woman dying from a complication related to pregnancy or childbirth.
• About 1million children are left motherless each year as a result of maternal mortality.
• These children are 3 to 4 times more likely to die within 2years than children who live with their parents.
• 1.5m infants and 1.4m stillbirths are associated with maternal deaths.
• Impact of maternal death on the family, the community, and on the economical development of the nation.
It has been realized that for development to be sustained women are very important and so their health becomes a priority. Therefore progress in the development of the nation is very dependent on safeguarding the health status of women.
This priority treatment of women’s health can be achieved through a multidisciplinary approach.
Igbede Gospel