Progress in Human Reproduction Research

Abstract

Reproductive health is not just the absence of disease of the reproductive system. Rather, it covers a whole range of conditions and processes that include healthy sexual development, reproduction and fertility regulation. Among women of reproductive age (15-44 years) in developing countries, the burden of reproductive ill-health is far greater than the burden from tuberculosis, respiratory infections, motor vehicle injuries, homicide and violence, or from war. Among these women reproductive ill-health accounts for 36% of the total disease burden, compared with 12% for men.