Global Reproductive Health

3 units

This course will provide an overview of the critical issues in global reproductive health, covering basic reproductive biology and epidemiological trends related to contraceptive use, fertility, and adverse birth outcomes. Additionally, applying a solutions-based approach, we will use key theoretical frameworks and cases studies from the field to understand the influence of social, behavioral, and environmental factors on adverse reproductive health outcomes. Finally, students will be engaged in topics related to what the field has achieved thus far, including: changes in policies, laws, and development approaches; the use of new technologies; the promotion of constructive male engagement; and overall improvements in outcomes related to family planning, fertility, maternal health, violence, sexually transmitted infections, and HIV/AIDS. Obstacles to progress such as waning political commitment, trends in funding, weakened health systems, and cultural opposition, will also be discussed.