Issue Brief on Reproductive Health

Communities in crisis are suddenly deprived of reproductive health information and services. In an emergency, access to contraceptives can be a major challenge. Transportation routes may be cut off, distribution networks dissolved and health facilities destroyed. Existing supplies may fall far short of demand when large numbers of people move into a safer location. A large number of refugees and internally displaced women will be pregnant, facing delivery under dangerous conditions; others may be victims of violence including rape.