Providing reproductive health information to rural women: The potentials of public libraries

Abstract

Access to reproductive health information is an integral part of the sustainable development goal³ of good health and well-being. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends a gender–based approach to public health that should holistically address the physical, mental and emotional well-being of women. However, women in urban areas seem to be benefiting more from various laudable reproductive health programmes than those in rural areas. This scenario negates the concept of sexual and reproductive health and rights, which have fundamental bearing for sound economic development and poverty alleviation. It is against this background that this paper examined the provision of reproductive health information to rural women in Nigeria. It identified the reproductive health information needs of rural women, including information on fertility, management of unplanned pregnancies, sexually transmitted diseases, prenatal and postnatal care.  It further discussed the problems hindering rural women from accessing reproductive health information. To alleviate these problems, the paper discussed various roles public libraries can play in helping rural women gain access to reproductive health information. It recommended adequate funding, community engagements, and collaboration with relevant agencies for public libraries to take their place in the dissemination of reproductive health information to rural women. (Afr J Reprod Health 2021; 25[5s]: 209-217).