Sometimes, focusing only on the global pandemic can overshadow other aspects of health. And, the Sexual and Reproductive Health (SRH) comes at the front during the crisis. Many communities already have limited access to Sexual and Reproductive Health services. Lockdowns might make accessing SRH services even more difficult.
Family Planning Services: Condom and other contraceptives
Safe Abortion Services: For Unintended Pregnancy
Menstrual Hygiene Products: Sanitary Pads in quarantine and isolation homes
Video Credit: Krishna Sharma, Youth Advocate, Nepal
Right to SRH services to make their own choice might be affected. It disproportionately threatens the lives of adolescent girls and young women. Lockdowns also might impact Safe pregnancy, Safe delivery, and Safe birth of a newborn, which are essential women's health rights considered as human rights. The barrier for accessing SRH services might be higher for the vulnerable groups. Such as LGBTQIA, PLHIV, and Sexual Workers. Adolescent's needs might be ignored mentally and physically during the lockdowns. Such as sexuality education, peer recreation, love and affection, and emotional security at home. Mental health problems might be increased during lockdowns especially among adolescents and the vulnerable population. And the crisis also can put women at greater risk of sexual and gender-based violence.
Ultimately, it might impacts achieving UHC and Gender Equality. So, the Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights are urgent and equally important in response to COVID-19.
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