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Reproductive Health

Definition

Reproductive health refers to the state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being in all matters relating to the reproductive system. It implies that people are able to have a satisfying and safe sex life, the capability to reproduce, and the freedom to decide if, when, and how often to do so.

Analogy

Think of reproductive health like maintaining a car. Just as you need regular check-ups, oil changes, and sometimes repairs for your car to run smoothly, you also need regular check-ups, preventative care (like contraception), and sometimes treatments or interventions (like fertility treatments) for your reproductive system to function optimally.

Related terms

Sexual Health: This is a state of physical, emotional, mental and social well-being related to sexuality; it's not merely about not having diseases or dysfunction. It requires a positive approach towards human sexuality.

Family Planning: This is the practice of controlling the number of children in a family and the intervals between their births by means of artificial contraception or voluntary sterilization.

Maternal Health: This refers specifically to the health of women during pregnancy, childbirth and postpartum period. It encompasses all aspects from preconception planning through pregnancy itself into postnatal care.