We take a look at some of the major issues populations around the world face in regards to reproductive rights and family planning.

Around the world in 2017, 63 per cent of women used some form of contraception. Among all the regions, North and South America saw the highest usage at 75 per cent.

Meanwhile in Hong Kong, there exist over 100,000 birth control services for women and men; including 25,516 women’s health services, as well as 5,547 men’s reproductive health services.

Developing countries saw 94 per cent of the world’s oftentimes preventable maternal mortality deaths. In 2017, 810 women died every day due to complications from severe bleeding, infections, unsafe abortions and other issues.

Meanwhile, underage pregnancy due to abuse and the practice of child marriage continues to be widespread across the world. Each year, 2.5 million girls under the age of 15 give birth; and 33,000 child marriages take place each day.

A look at infertility trends show that 65 per cent of women who use in vitro fertilisation (IVF) are between the ages of 30-39. The procedure sees a success rate of 23.3 per cent in live births, with 500,000 of annual deliveries taking place as a result of IVF. Meanwhile, in the UK, the average egg-freezing patient is over the age of 35.

Each year, 3 million girls undergo female genital mutilation; the majority of these girls are 15 years old at the time. From infection, to swelling to death, the risks associated with the controversial procedure are high.

Among men, the most common reproductive problem is erectile dysfunction which can often take place as a result of alcoholism, stress, and anxiety; as well as physical issues such as neurological and heart diseases.

Learn more essential terms about reproductive health.

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