We engage with women, communities, service providers and government to promote and enhance the health and wellbeing of women across the Gippsland area

Sexual and Reproductive Health

What is it?

According to the International Conference on Population and Development (1994) reproductive health is: ... a state of complete physical, mental and social wellbeing in all matters relating to the reproductive system and its functions and processes. Reproductive health therefore implies that people are able to have a responsible, satisfying and safe sex life and that they have the capability to reproduce and the freedom to decide if, when and how to do so.

Sexual health, as defined at the 1995 Fourth World Conference on Women (1995) is: ... a state of physical, emotional, mental and social wellbeing in relation to sexuality; it is not merely the absence of disease, dysfunction or infirmity. Sexual health requires a positive and respectful approach to sexuality and sexual relationships, as well as the possibility of having pleasurable and safe sexual experiences, free of coercion, discrimination and violence. For sexual health to be attained and maintained, sexual rights of all persons must be respected, protected and fulfilled.

Why is it important?

Sexual and reproductive health is essential to individuals throughout the life course. It is fundamental to a positive identity and for the enjoyment of social relationships, and more broadly to physical and mental health. Therefore, any action to improve sexual and reproductive health must also target the social determinants of health, rather than simply focusing on individual risk factors and behaviours. This recognises the social and structural context of sexual and reproductive health, and responds to the social factors that have a significant impact on health.

(from Women’s Health Association Victoria: Proposal for a Victorian Sexual and Reproductive Health Strategy 2011)

Our Programs

GWHS is the lead agency for the Gippsland Sexual and Reproductive Health Promotion Strategy 2009-2012. The aim of the strategy is to develop a comprehensive, evidence-based regional plan that will direct and inform health promotion activity for sexual and reproductive health.