Mapping Reproductive Health Policy Using Arts-Based Research Methods: A Model of Pedagogical Transgression

This chapter presents a model and a qualitative analysis of an applied health humanities assignment that used arts-based methods to introduce health science undergraduates to the intersectional barriers connected to reproductive health policy in the U.S.

Sexual and Reproductive Health in (Nigeria) Africa: Issues, Debate and Approaches

Human reproductive health is still at risk in Nigeria. In response to the problem, the Federal Government of Nigeria launched the National Reproductive Health Policy in 2001 to serve as the framework to base reproductive health strategies and interventions. Despite this, the country is far from achieving its set target. Several factors have been identified as the elements behind this challenge. One of such factor is cultural and religious beliefs. Religions have been known to have influenced people on beliefs of various kinds, especially on the issue of human sexuality and reproduction. There are two main religions in Nigeria – Christianity, and Islam. Their doctrines on sexual and reproductive health have been challenging. This paper sets out to map out these religious perspectives in the light of contemporary and practical relevance based on a sound philosophical understanding. This approach is important in order to bridge the communication gap between the cultural/religious community and the public health intervention workforce, so as to create synergy towards effective action. Moreover, the paper argues that silence on sexual matters should no longer be held as a virtue since traditional norms have lost their capacity to modernity.

The biomedicalisation of abortion

This chapter discusses the development of the bio-medicalisation of abortion. Recent history reveals the key role played by pharmaceutical companies in the development of a medication to induce abortion (Mifepristone) and how localised knowledge amongst women identified the abortifacient properties of a second medication (Misoprostol). Whilst the bio-medicalisation of abortion was initially hailed as a way to put women at the centre of the process, its implementation was not without problems. The impact of commercial pressures on pharmaceutical companies is discussed, as well as challenges faced by those accessing the medication without adequate information on dosage and usage. The case study of Brazil highlights the hugely significant role played by women in communities experiencing multiple barriers to accessing abortion, sharing knowledge about medication which having been developed for other purposes, became known for its abortifacient purposes. The impact of the Zika virus in 2015 highlights how severe inadequacies within reproductive health policy affected women and their families. The chapter concludes by considering the impact of the bio-medicalisation on health professionals and the changing dynamic in the relationship between clinician and the woman seeking an abortion.