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Period shame, misinformation linked to serious human rights concerns
A new report from Eastern and Southern Africa links shame and misinformation around menstruation to gender discrimination, child marriage, exclusion, poverty, violence and untreated health problems.
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Finding a way out of child marriage and towards a vocation
Iraq
At a women's centre in Iraq, a Syrian refugee gains the support she needs to avoid marriage, and the skills and experience to help others do the same.
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In Türkiye, a safe haven for Syrian refugee survivors
Türkiye
Fatima endured brutal domestic violence, and she gave birth alone as war raged outside. But now she has a new life, and a new power: independence.
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A turning point for girls' and women’s menstrual health in Africa
Kenya
“I felt embarrassed to be a girl and felt like it was a punishment,” recalled 13-year-old Faith, describing her first period. The Menstrual Health Management Symposium is taking aim at period shame.
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Child bride and fistula survivor becomes an advocate for change
Malawi
Fistula is one of the most serious and tragic childbirth injuries, and it is almost entirely preventable.
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Debilitating childbirth injury takes major toll on women
Ethiopia
Obstetric fistula affects the most vulnerable, marginalized women – those without access to quality obstetric care.
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In war-torn Yemen, a devastating childbirth injury, then a glimpse of hope
Yemen
On Wednesday, the world will observe the International Day to End Obstetric Fistula.
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Expanding family planning choices for women in the Philippines
Philippines
Access to a wide range of contraceptive options is critical to fulfilling the human right to family planning.
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Haiti vasectomy campaign draws over 300 per cent anticipated turnout
Haiti
“At 55, I already have four children. I realized that I do not have enough resources to take care of more mouths in my family,” said one man who chose to get a vasectomy.
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Midwife describes working under ISIL, taking a dangerous stand for women
Iraq
“I knew that I was risking my life," Um Qassem told UNFPA.
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Fifty years ago, it became official: Family planning is a human right
On 13 May, 1968, the world declared family planning to be a basic human right. But 50 years later, this right is under attack.
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Nepal’s first midwives waiting in the wings to save women’s lives
Nepal
New midwifery course in Nepal aims to elevate midwives, save mothers.
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