Work

Meeting the Reproductive Health Needs of Female Key Populations Affected by HIV in Low‐ and Middle‐Income Countries: A Review of the Evidence

Year: 2017

Type: review

Abstract: Female sex workers and other women at high risk of acquiring HIV have the right to sexual and reproductive health, including the right to determine the number and timing of pregnancies. We conducted a literature review to examine the data that exist regarding the family planning and reproductive health needs of female key populations, the underlying determinants of these populations' vulnerability to poor reproductive health outcomes, and the obstacles they face in accessing high-quality reproductive health services. Findings indicate that female key populations experience high rates of unmet need for family planning and safer conception services, unintended pregnancies, sexual violence, and abortion, and that they practice inconsistent condom use. Restrictive policy environments, stigma and discrimination in health care settings, gender inequality, and economic marginalization restrict access to services and undermine the ability to safely achieve reproductive intentions. We offer recommendations for structural, health system, community, and individual-level interventions that can mitigate the effects of these barriers and improve reproductive health outcomes.

Source: Studies in Family Planning

DOI: 10.1111/sifp.12020

Authors: Nicole B. Ippoliti, Geeta Nanda, Rose Wilcher

Language: English

Topic: Reproductive Health and Contraception

Subfield: Public Health, Environmental and Occupational Health

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDGs: Gender equality, Good health and well-being, Reduced inequalities

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,190

Funders: United States Agency for International Development, U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief