8.1. Reproductive health
Reproductive health is a state of complete physical, mental and social wellbeing and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity; in all matters related to the reproductive system and to its functions and processes.
Reproductive health, therefore, implies that people are able to have a satisfying and safe sex life and that they have the capability to reproduce and the freedom to decide if, when and how often to do so. This concept implies:
1. That men and women have the full right to be informed and to have access to safe, effective, affordable and acceptable methods of family planning of their choice, as well as other methods of their choice for regulation of fertility which are not against the law.
2.That men and women have the right of access to appropriate health care services that will enable women to go safely through pregnancy and childbirth and provide couples with the best chance of having a healthy infant.

8.2. The importance of reproductive health
Reproductive health is a crucial part of general health and a central feature of human development. It is a reflection of health during childhood, and crucial during adolescence and adulthood, sets the stage for health beyond the reproductive years for both women and men, and affects the health of the next generation.

At each stage of life individual needs differ. However, there is a cumulative effect across the life course ‏ events at each phase having important implications for