This is the definition approved by all countries attending the 1994 International Conference on Population and Development in Cairo.
Sexual and reproductive health includes:
Sexual and reproductive health is closely linked to the fulfilment of and respect for human rights. At the International Conference on Population and Development in Cairo in 1994, the international community recognized reproductive rights for the first time. Sexual rights are not included in the Cairo action plan. To date, the international community has not succeeded in agreeing on a definition of these rights. This is a result of the fact that sexual rights touch on aspects that many nations do not agree with, despite the fact that they are derived from basic human rights.
Despite advances in sexual and reproductive health, a need for action remains in many areas. Throughout the world, people are unable to exercise their rights in regards to sexuality and reproduction. Especially in nations of the Southern hemisphere, sexual and reproductive services lag well behind the needs of the population. In particular, women and girls frequently lack sex education, are unable to freely make choices regarding their own sexuality, and are victims of discrimination and violence. Millions of women suffer for the rest of their lives as a result of complications experienced during childbirth. Countless deaths and negative health outcomes could be avoided through a functioning health system and by adequate medical care during pregnancy and birth.
