January 2026

Economic Exclusion as Gender-Based Violence

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Gender-based violence (GBV) is most often associated with physical or sexual abuse. However, economic exclusion – the systematic denial of women’s access to jobs, income, assets, and economic decision-making is itself a form of violence that harms individuals, families, and societies. When women are excluded from economic opportunities, the impact goes far beyond loss of income; it restricts freedom, autonomy, safety, and long-term development (1).

At its core, GBV includes economic abuse, where financial control is used as a tool of power and coercion. Economic violence may involve denying women access to money, preventing them from working, confiscating earnings, or restricting access to education and financial resources, forcing dependency and disempowerment (1). In many contexts, economic abuse is one of the most widespread yet least recognized forms of gender-based violence.

Economic exclusion is sustained by discriminatory laws, weak institutional protections, and unequal social norms. Globally, over 2.7 billion women live in countries where laws restrict the types of jobs they can do, and at least 43 economies still lack legislation addressing workplace sexual harassment, creating unsafe and unequal labor environments (2).

Intimate partner violence which frequently includes economic abuse affects approximately one in three women worldwide, limiting their ability to earn, save, and participate fully in public and economic life (3). In South Africa, studies indicate that one in eight adult women has experienced economic abuse, including being deliberately deprived of money or access to financial resources by a partner (4).

The consequences extend beyond individuals to national economies. Gender-based violence, including its economic dimensions, has measurable effects on productivity and growth. Evidence suggests that GBV can cost countries between 1–2% of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) due to absenteeism, reduced productivity, healthcare costs, and forced withdrawal from the workforce (5).

In Nigeria, the economic cost of gender-based violence is estimated at approximately USD 3 billion annually, equivalent to about 1% of the nation’s GDP, underscoring the scale of economic loss linked to women’s exclusion and abuse (6).

Economic exclusion intersects with social norms that treat women as inferior, dependent, or secondary earners. When women lack control over income, are denied access to employment, or are discouraged from education and financial decision-making, the result is structural violence a normalized and persistent denial of rights and well-being.

This exclusion is not accidental; it is deeply rooted in patriarchal systems and discriminatory practices that limit women’s autonomy and participation. The World Bank has emphasized that violence against women undermines economic growth and damages communities and future generations by restricting women’s productive potential (7).

Experts have consistently highlighted both the human and economic costs of this form of violence. According to the World Bank:

“Violence against women and girls is a global epidemic that endangers lives and carries wide-ranging consequences for individuals, families, and communities.” (7)

Research further shows that economic abuse and exclusion lead to long-term psychological harm, loss of independence, and restricted life opportunities for women and girls. Conversely, policies that promote women’s economic empowerment are associated with reduced exposure to GBV and increased participation in education, employment, and leadership (8).

Ending economic exclusion as a form of gender-based violence requires deliberate and sustained action, including:

  • Strong legal protections guaranteeing equal work rights, pay equity, and safeguards against economic abuse.
  • Transformation of harmful social norms that portray women as dependents rather than economic actors.
  • Targeted economic empowerment initiatives that expand women’s access to education, finance, and entrepreneurship.
  • Inclusive workplace policies that ensure safety, fair remuneration, and career advancement for women

Economic exclusion is not merely an economic challenge it is a human rights violation. Recognizing it as a form of gender-based violence strengthens advocacy, accountability, and policy responses, and is essential to building societies where women can live, work, and thrive free from coercion and inequality.

References

  1. Women’s World Banking. What is economic violence against women and why does it matter? Available from:
    https://www.womensworldbanking.org/insights/what-is-economic-violence-against-women-and-why-does-it-matter/
  2. UN Women. Facts and figures: Women’s economic empowerment. Available from:
    https://knowledge.unwomen.org/en/articles/facts-and-figures/facts-and-figures-economic-empowerment
  3. Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC). Violence against women: An overlooked economic barrier. Available from:
    https://www.apec.org/press/blogs/2025/violence-against-women–an-overlooked-economic-barrier
  4. Independent Online (IOL). Economic abuse: The most common yet overlooked form of GBV in South Africa. Available from:
    https://iol.co.za/mercury/2025-07-02-economic-abuse-the-most-common-yet-overlooked-form-of-gender-based-violence-in-south-africa/
  5. International Monetary Fund. How domestic violence is a threat to economic development. Available from:
    https://www.imf.org/en/blogs/articles/2021/11/24/how-domestic-violence-is-a-threat-to-economic-development
  6. The Whistler Newspaper. Nigeria loses estimated $3bn annually to gender-based violence. Available from:
    https://thewhistler.ng/nigeria-loses-estimated-3-0bn-annually-to-gender-based-violence/
  7. World Bank. More than 1 billion women lack legal protection against domestic and sexual violence. Available from:
    https://www.worldbank.org/en/news/press-release/2018/02/01/more-than-1-billion-women-lack-legal-protection-against-domestic-sexual-violence-finds-world-bank-study
  8. MDPI. The quest for female economic empowerment in Sub-Saharan Africa and implications for GBV. Available from:
    https://www.mdpi.com/1911-8074/17/2/51

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Breaking Myths, Ending Stigma, and Acting Against Cervical Cancer

Cancer, Cultural practices in Africa, Female Genital Mutilation, Gender, Gender Based Violence, Gender Equality, Girl Education, Global warming, Health, Health Communication, Menstrual Health and Hygiene, Monday Health Burst, Reproductive Health, WHO, Women, Women Education, Women's Rights /

Cervical cancer is a major global health issue yet one of the most preventable forms of cancer. Almost all cervical cancer cases (about 99%) are linked to infection with high-risk human papillomaviruses (HPV), which are extremely common and transmitted through sexual contact. Persistent HPV infection can cause cervical cancer if left untreated, but early detection and prevention make this disease largely preventable. ¹

Despite this, myths and misinformation persist and contribute to stigma around cervical cancer screening and HPV. Studies show that many women feel shame, anxiety, and embarrassment when diagnosed with HPV or advised to get screened, often because HPV is incorrectly perceived as a sign of promiscuity or extreme risk. ² This stigma can deter women from seeking preventive care and early diagnosis, undermining efforts to reduce disease burden. ³

Globally, cervical cancer remains a leading cause of cancer deaths among women. In 2022, an estimated 660,000 new cases were diagnosed worldwide, with about 350,000 deaths many of which could be prevented through vaccination, regular screening, and early treatment. ¹ In Nigeria, cervical cancer is the second most common cancer among women and carries significant risk in the reproductive age group. ⁴

Despite proven benefits, uptake of cervical cancer screening and HPV vaccination remains low. Studies in Nigeria (2021–2023) show that fewer than 15% of adolescent girls have received the HPV vaccine and only about 10% of women have ever been screened, indicating slow progress compared to global targets.⁵ This low uptake is driven by limited awareness, misconceptions, stigma, and weak family or partner support, while reviews from 2022–2024 highlight persistent beliefs that screening is only for certain women or may cause harm, further discouraging participation.⁶

Myths about cervical cancer include beliefs that HPV always leads to cancer, that only women with symptoms should screen, or that screening itself causes harm. Evidence shows these are false HPV does not always cause cancer, early stages of disease often have no symptoms, and regular screening (Pap tests or HPV testing) is safe and effective in detecting abnormalities before they progress. ⁷

Stigma further compounds the problem. Surveys indicate that significant numbers of women experience emotional distress or feel ashamed after receiving abnormal screening results, which can delay follow-up care and discourage others from attending future screenings. ² Overcoming this stigma requires not just medical interventions but community education and open conversations about HPV and cervical health.

Acting against cervical cancer involves three key strategies: vaccination, screening, and treatment. The World Health Organization’s global strategy targets HPV vaccination of 90% of girls by age 15, screening 70% of eligible women twice in their lifetimes, and ensuring 90% of women with pre-cancer or invasive cancer receive appropriate care. ⁴ Countries such as Pakistan have demonstrated wide vaccination coverage, with campaigns reaching millions of girls despite resistance fueled by misinformation.

Breaking myths and ending stigma is essential to increase screening uptake and vaccine acceptance. Community education campaigns, trusted health messaging, and culturally sensitive outreach can help shift perceptions, build trust, and empower women to take preventive action. We urge communities, health workers, and families to actively support women in accessing screenings and vaccinations, speak openly about cervical health, and challenge harmful myths whenever they arise. When women understand the facts and feel supported rather than judged, lives can be saved, and the stigma that hinders progress can be dismantled.

References

  1. World Health Organization (WHO). Cervical cancer prevention, diagnosis, screening.
    https://www.who.int/cancer/prevention/diagnosis-screening/cervical-cancer/en/
  2. Sheena Meredith. HPV stigma leads to shame for women with diagnosis. Medscape.
    https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/HPV-Stigma-Leads-Shame-Women-Diagnosis-2022a10004lc
  3. BMC Public Health. Barriers to cervical cancer screening in Africa.
    https://bmcpublichealth.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12889-024-17842-1
  4. WHO Africa. Cervical cancer early detection saves lives (Nigeria context).
    https://www.afro.who.int/countries/nigeria/news/cervical-cancer-early-detection-saves-lives
  5. BMC Women’s Health. Cervical cancer screening and HPV vaccination knowledge in Nigeria.
    https://bmcwomenshealth.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12905-023-02345-9
  6. PubMed Central. Cervical cancer stigma—a silent barrier to elimination.
    https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11869935/
  7. Thomson Medical. 9 common myths about cervical cancer debunked.
    https://www.thomsonmedical.com/blog/myths-about-cervical-cancer

 

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Stolen Childhoods Through Early Marriage

Gender, Gender Based Violence, Gender Equality, Speak Wednesday, WHO, Women, Women's Rights /

Child marriage, also known as early marriage, refers to any formal marriage or informal union where one or both partners are under the age of 18. Despite laws and global commitments to end this practice, it remains widespread and continues to rob millions of children especially girls of their childhoods, education, health, and future opportunities. Globally, one in five young women aged 20–24 was married before age 18, compared to one in four a decade ago, showing slow progress but not enough to meet international targets. ¹

Every year, about 12 million adolescent girls are married before the age of 18, which translates to roughly 23 girls every minute entering unwanted, early partnerships.² This practice is not evenly distributed; it is more common in low- and middle-income countries, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, where up to 41% of girls marry before 18, and in South Asia0ttwd- .³ Nigeria, for example, has one of the highest rates of child marriage in the world: an estimated 44% of girls are married before the age of 18, although recent reports indicate this may be declining nationally to around 30% as efforts to address the issue increase.⁴

The consequences of early marriage are profound. Girls who marry as children are far more likely to drop out of school, which severely limits their future economic opportunities and perpetuates cycles of poverty and dependency. Early marriage also exposes girls to higher risks of intimate partner violence, early and risky pregnancies, maternal health complications, and poor mental health outcomes. ⁵ Research shows that child brides experience worse health and social outcomes than their unmarried peers, and these effects often extend to their own children, undermining intergenerational well-being. ⁶

The prevalence of child marriage is influenced by multiple factors including poverty, lack of education, gender inequality, social norms, and in some regions, insecurity, and conflict. Data from Nigeria’s northern regions where poverty is high and educational outcomes are low shows early marriage remains particularly entrenched, with cultural practices and limited access to schooling contributing to higher rates. ⁷ The COVID-19 pandemic and other crises have also exacerbated these risks, as school closures, economic stress, and reduced social protections have increased vulnerability to early marriage in many communities. ⁸

Efforts to reduce child marriage require a multifaceted approach. Policies and laws that set the minimum age of marriage at 18 without exceptions must be enforced; girls’ access to quality education and economic opportunities must be expanded; and communities must be engaged to shift harmful norms that condone child marriage. Programs that empower adolescent girls with information, skills, and social support have been shown to delay marriage and improve life outcomes. International commitments, such as the Sustainable Development Goal target to eliminate child marriage by 2030, emphasize the importance of sustained action, yet projections suggest that without accelerated progress, child marriage will continue for decades in many countries. ⁹

Efforts by governments, civil society, families, and communities are essential to protect children and uphold their rights. Ending early marriage is not only a matter of legal compliance, but a moral imperative to ensure that every child can grow, learn, and contribute to society as an empowered adult.

Speak Wednesday is an initiative of CFHI to address issues around gender-base violence and gender-bias.

 

References

  1. UNICEF. Child marriage prevalence and trends (global). https://www.unicef.org/protection/child-marriage (UNICEF USA)
  2. UNICEF Innocenti. What works to prevent child marriage. https://www.unicef.org/innocenti/innocenti/innocenti/what-works-prevent-child-marriage (unicef.org)
  3. UNICEF West and Central Africa. Child marriage in West and Central Africa. https://www.unicef.org/wca/child-marriage (unicef.org)
  4. UNICEF Nigeria. Child marriage rates and trends in Nigeria. https://www.unicef.org/nigeria/press-releases/nigeria-takes-bold-steps-end-child-marriage-and-protect-rights-children (unicef.org)
  5. Prevention Collaborative. Child, early, and forced marriage harms and impacts. https://prevention-collaborative.org/about-violence/child-early-and-forced-marriage/ (Prevention Collaborative)
  6. PubMed systematic review. Prevalence and factors associated with child marriage. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37817117/ (PubMed)
  7. International Health (Oxford Academic). Spatial distribution of child marriage in Nigeria. https://academic.oup.com/inthealth/article/15/2/171/6589585 (OUP Academic)
  8. Early marriage and teenage pregnancy literature review (COVID-19 impacts). https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8411836/ (PMC)
  9. UNFPA / UNICEF global programme and SDG targets. https://www.unfpa.org/child-marriage (unfpa.org)

 

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Screening Saves Lives: Why Early Detection Matters

Cancer, Community Development, Gender, Gender Based Violence, Gender Equality, Global warming, Health, Health Communication, Menstrual Health and Hygiene, Monday Health Burst, Reproductive Health, WHO, Women, Women Education, Women in Leadership, Women's Rights /

Health screening and early detection are critical tools in the fight against cervical cancer, one of the most preventable yet deadly cancers affecting women worldwide. Cervical cancer develops slowly and is often caused by persistent infection with high-risk types of the human papillomavirus (HPV). Screening allows precancerous changes and early-stage disease to be detected and treated before they progress into life-threatening cancer, significantly improving survival, reducing complications, and saving lives¹.

Early detection plays a decisive role in cervical cancer outcomes. When cervical cancer is identified at an early stage, the chances of successful treatment are very high. Evidence shows that women diagnosed with early-stage cervical cancer have a five-year survival rate of over 90%, compared to much lower survival rates when the disease is detected late². Regular screening methods such as Pap smears, HPV testing, and visual inspection with acetic acid (VIA) help identify abnormal cervical changes early, long before symptoms appear³. Countries with strong screening programs have recorded substantial declines in cervical cancer incidence and mortality, demonstrating the life-saving impact of early detection⁴.

Detecting cervical cancer early also reduces the severity and complexity of treatment. Early-stage disease can often be managed with simpler procedures that preserve fertility and reduce long-term health complications. In contrast, late diagnosis frequently requires extensive surgery, chemotherapy, or radiotherapy, which can lead to long-term physical, emotional, and financial strain for affected women and their families⁵. In many low- and middle-income settings, late presentation remains a major challenge, contributing to high cervical cancer mortality rates.

Screening for cervical cancer is also cost-effective. Preventing cancer through early detection and treatment of precancerous lesions costs far less than treating advanced cervical cancer. Investing in routine screening programs reduces hospital admissions, lowers healthcare expenditure, and improves productivity by keeping women healthy and active in their communities⁶.

Despite the proven benefits of screening, many women particularly those in underserved and rural communities still lack access to cervical cancer screening services. Barriers such as poverty, limited health facilities, stigma, low awareness, and fear of diagnosis contribute to low screening uptake and late detection. These gaps underscore the need for sustained public health efforts to expand access to affordable, acceptable, and community-based screening services⁷.

Screening saves lives, but only when women act. CFHI calls on women to prioritize regular cervical cancer screening, caregivers, and community leaders to support awareness and reduce stigma, and policymakers and partners to invest in accessible and sustainable screening programs. Early detection of cervical cancer is not just a medical intervention it is a powerful step toward protecting women’s health, dignity, and lives.

 

 

References

  1. World Health Organization (WHO). Cervical cancer – Key facts.
    https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/cervical-cancer
  2. American Cancer Society. Cervical Cancer Survival Rates.
    https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/cervical-cancer/detection-diagnosis-staging/survival-rates.html
  3. World Health Organization (WHO). Comprehensive cervical cancer control: A guide to essential practice.
    https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/9789241548953
  4. International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC). Impact of cervical cancer screening on incidence and mortality.
    https://www.iarc.who.int/research-groups/cancer-screening/
  5. National Cancer Institute. Cervical cancer treatment and outcomes.
    https://www.cancer.gov/types/cervical
  6. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Cervical cancer screening saves lives and reduces costs.
    https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/cervical/basic_info/screening.htm
  7. World Health Organization (WHO). Global strategy to accelerate the elimination of cervical cancer.
    https://www.who.int/initiatives/cervical-cancer-elimination-initiative

 

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Sexual Violence Against Women with Disabilities

Community Development, End FGM, Female Genital Mutilation, Gender, Gender Based Violence, Girl Education, Global warming, Health, Health Communication, Hygiene, Menstrual Health and Hygiene, Reproductive Health, Stop FGM, WHO, Women, Women Education, Women's Rights /

Sexual violence against women with disabilities is a deeply troubling yet often overlooked dimension of gender-based violence that intersects with ableism, discrimination, and social neglect. Evidence shows that women with disabilities face a significantly higher risk of sexual violence compared to women without disabilities, in part because of societal attitudes that devalue their autonomy and normalize their marginalization. Research indicates that women with any form of disability may experience sexual violence at roughly double the rate of women without disabilities over their lifetimes, with heightened vulnerability among those with multiple or cognitive disabilities [1]. In some settings, women with disabilities are disproportionately likely to be victims of rape and other forms of coerced sexual contact, underscoring the urgent need to recognize their specific risks and experiences as part of broader violence prevention efforts [2].

The vulnerability of women with disabilities to sexual violence is driven by multiple factors including dependency on caregivers or partners for daily needs, limited mobility or communication barriers, and pervasive myths that deny their sexual agency and rights. These conditions not only increase exposure to abuse but also make it harder for survivors to report violence or access support services due to fear, shame, or lack of accessible reporting mechanisms. Global research highlights that women with disabilities are more likely to face not only sexual violence but also emotional and physical abuse, with long-term impacts on physical and mental health, autonomy, and quality of life [3]. The Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights has repeatedly called attention to the disproportionate risk of violence faced by women with disabilities and the necessity for better data, inclusive services, and tailored policies to protect their rights [4].

In Nigeria, too, gender-based violence is addressed under laws such as the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act 2015, which aims to eliminate all forms of violence against individuals, including sexual violence. While such legal frameworks exist, enforcement, awareness, and protection for women with disabilities remain inconsistent, with many survivors still falling through gaps in reporting, healthcare, and justice systems [5]. It is therefore critical for policymakers, health systems, community leaders, and service providers to mainstream disability-inclusive approaches that recognize the intersecting vulnerabilities that these women face.

At the Centre for Family Health Initiative (CFHI), addressing violence against women especially among vulnerable populations like women with disabilities is integral to our community health work. CFHI integrates gender-based violence awareness and response into school and community engagements, ensuring that information on rights, reporting pathways, and support services reaches diverse audiences. Through partnerships with health facilities, community leaders, and referral networks, CFHI also supports safe and confidential reporting channels, linking survivors to medical care, psychosocial support, and legal aid where available. By advocating for inclusive prevention strategies and survivor-centred responses, CFHI reinforces that violence against women with disabilities is not inevitable it is preventable and must be confronted collectively.

Ending violence against women with disabilities requires an intersectional approach that dismantles harmful social norms, strengthens legal protections, and ensures that services are accessible and responsive to the unique needs of survivors. Education and awareness campaigns must challenge myths about disability and sexuality, while community-level prevention programmes should promote respect, consent, and equality for all women regardless of ability. Health workers, educators, and law enforcement must be trained to recognise and respond to sexual violence sensitively and without bias. Importantly, women with disabilities themselves should be engaged as leaders in advocating for change, ensuring that policies and interventions are shaped by their lived experiences.

The fight against sexual violence is not only a matter of law or policy it is a moral imperative rooted in human rights, dignity, and justice. As communities, governments, and organisations, we must commit to creating environments where vulnerable women anf girls can live free from the threat of violence, access support without barriers, and assert their rights with confidence and respect.

 

References

  1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Sexual Violence and Intimate Partner Violence Among People with Disabilities. Available from: https://www.cdc.gov/sexual-violence/about/sexual-violence-and-intimate-partner-violence-among-people-with-disabilities.html (CDC)
  2. Z. C. et al. Sexual Violence Against Women With Disabilities: Experiences With Force and Lifetime Risk. American Journal of Preventive Medicine (lifetime risk higher among women with disabilities). (Reddit)
  3. Health and Socioeconomic Determinants of Abuse among Women with Disabilities. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health (higher prevalence and lower escape rates). (MDPI)
  4. World Health Organization. WHO calls for greater attention to violence against women with disabilities and older women. WHO. (World Health Organization)
  5. Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act 2015 (Nigeria). Available from: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Violence_Against_Persons_%28Prohibition%29_Act_2015 (en.wikipedia.org

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Understanding Risk Factors and How to Prevent Cervical Cancer

Cancer, Female Genital Mutilation, Gender, Gender Based Violence, Health, Health Communication, Menstrual Health and Hygiene, Monday Health Burst, Reproductive Health, VVF, WHO, Women Education /

Cervical cancer remains one of the most preventable yet deadly cancers affecting women globally and in Nigeria. In 2022 alone, about 660,000 new cases and 350,000 deaths were recorded worldwide, with the highest burden in low- and middle-income countries where access to prevention and care is limited [1]. The disease develops in the cervix and is caused almost entirely by persistent infection with high-risk Human Papillomavirus (HPV), a common sexually transmitted virus that often shows no early symptoms [1].

Several factors increase a woman’s risk of developing cervical cancer. These include early sexual activity, multiple sexual partners, smoking, long-term use of hormonal contraceptives, and weakened immunity, especially among women living with HIV [1]. Women with HIV are up to six times more likely to develop cervical cancer due to reduced immune response to HPV infections [2]. In Nigeria, cervical cancer is the second most common cancer among women, and many cases are detected late due to low screening uptake and limited awareness [2].

The good news is that cervical cancer is largely preventable and treatable when detected early. The HPV vaccine, recommended for girls aged 9–14 years, can prevent up to 70–90% of cervical cancer cases linked to high-risk HPV types [1]. Regular screening through HPV testing or Pap smears helps detect precancerous changes early, allowing timely treatment before cancer develops. However, misinformation, cost, fear, and limited access continue to hinder screening in many communities [3].

In 2023, CFHI partnered with the National Primary Healthcare Development Agency, Women Advocates for Vaccine Access, Johns Hopkins International Vaccine Access Center, and other relevant partners to support HPV vaccine introduction in Nigeria, train ten vaccine champions, and sensitise over 4,000 persons in Bwari LGA, Abuja.

Every woman deserves the chance to prevent cervical cancer. Get screened regularly, ensure eligible girls receive the HPV vaccine, and share accurate information within your community. Together, we can reduce preventable deaths and protect women’s health.

References

  1. World Health Organization. Cervical cancer. Available from: https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/cervical-cancer
  2. World Health Organization Regional Office for Africa. Cervical cancer early detection saves lives (Nigeria). Available from: https://www.afro.who.int/countries/nigeria/news/cervical-cancer-early-detection-saves-lives
  3. BMC Women’s Health. Cervical cancer screening and vaccination awareness in Nigeria. Available from: https://bmcwomenshealth.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12905-023-02345-9

 

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Silent Reproductive Health Struggles

16DaysOfActivism, Child Labour, Child Trafficking, ChildNotBride, Community Development, Cultural practices in Africa, End FGM, Female Genital Mutilation, Female Roles in Nation Building, Gender, Gender Based Violence, Gender Equality, Health, Health Communication, Hygiene, Menstrual Health and Hygiene, Reproductive Health, Speak Wednesday, Stop FGM, Suicide Prevention, Teenage Pregnancy, VVF, WHO, Women, Women Education /

Women’s reproductive health is fundamental to their overall well-being, yet millions of women globally and in Nigeria face persistent, often silent challenges that compromise their health, autonomy, and quality of life [1]. Despite progress in some areas, vast inequities remain in access to services, information, and rights leaving many women vulnerable to preventable health problems [2].

One of the major silent struggles is limited access to essential reproductive health services, including family planning, maternal care, and safe delivery support. In sub-Saharan Africa, one in four women who wish to delay or stop childbearing do not use any contraceptive method, reflecting gaps in availability, choice, and quality of reproductive care [1][5]. These shortfalls contribute to high rates of unintended pregnancies, unsafe abortions, and increased maternal morbidity and mortality. Globally, about 800 women die each day from pregnancy-related causes, many of which are preventable with proper services and support [1].

In Nigeria, reproductive health disparities are stark. A survey of reproductive health concerns found that sexual health, contraception, infections, fertility issues, and reproductive cancers were among the most pressing worries for women, indicating broad unmet needs across the reproductive spectrum [3]. Despite various policies, only a few Nigerian states meet benchmarks for women’s participation in decisions about their sexual and reproductive health, reflecting systemic barriers rooted in socio-cultural norms and limited autonomy [4]. Economic challenges also contribute, with millions of women lacking access to modern contraceptives and comprehensive family planning services due to cost, misinformation, fear of side effects, cultural opposition, and weak health systems [5][6].

Another under-recognized struggle is infertility, which affects a significant portion of women yet remains stigmatized and poorly supported. Recent WHO guidance highlights infertility as a major public health concern, with more than one in six people of reproductive age affected [7]. Access to affordable fertility evaluation and treatment is limited in many countries, forcing women to choose between financial hardship and their desire for children [7].

Maternal health remains a critical issue. Globally, approximately 287,000 women die yearly from complications in pregnancy and childbirth, with nearly all these deaths occurring in low- and middle-income settings where health systems are weak and resources scarce [1]. In areas affected by conflict or economic strain, such as parts of northern Nigeria, women face even greater risks due to disrupted services, insecurity, and collapsed care infrastructure [8].

The impact of these struggles extends beyond physical health. When women cannot access respectful, quality reproductive care, the consequences ripple into social and economic domains limiting educational opportunities, reducing workforce participation, and perpetuating cycles of poverty and inequality [2].

Improving women’s reproductive health requires a holistic approach that ensures affordable and accessible services such as contraception, antenatal care, skilled delivery, and emergency support reach even the most underserved communities [1][5], while also equipping women with accurate, culturally sensitive information to make informed choices about their bodies and health [2]. At the same time, policies must actively protect women’s autonomy and reproductive rights by challenging harmful norms and discrimination [2][4], supported by strong, well-funded health systems with trained personnel to guarantee continuity of care, especially in fragile settings [1][8]. Integrating affordable infertility care and psychosocial support into routine reproductive health services is also essential to address the often hidden emotional and social burdens many women silently endure [7].

Speak Wednesday is an initiative of CFHI to address issues around gender-base violence and gender-bias.

References

  1. WHO Regional Office for Africa. Women’s Health. Available from: https://www.afro.who.int/health-topics/womens-health
  2. United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA). New UNFPA report finds 30 years of progress in sexual and reproductive health has mostly ignored the most marginalized communities. Available from: https://www.unfpa.org/press/new-unfpa-report-finds-30-years-progress-sexual-and-reproductive-health-has-mostly-ignored
  3. Sa’adatu TS, Dieng B, Danmadami AM. Reproductive health issues of concern among Nigerians: an online survey. Int J Community Med Public Health. Available from: https://doi.org/10.18203/2394-6040.ijcmph20234114
  4. Premium Times Nigeria. Only eight Nigerian states meet women’s health benchmark – Report. Available from: https://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/top-news/830200-only-eight-nigerian-states-meet-womens-health-benchmark-report.html
  5. World Health Organization. Sexual and Reproductive Health and Research (SRH): Family planning and contraception. Available from: https://www.who.int/teams/sexual-and-reproductive-health-and-research-%28srh%29
  6. Ballard Brief. Barriers to Family Planning for Women in West Africa. Available from: https://ballardbrief.byu.edu/issue-briefs/barriers-to-family-planning-for-women-in-west-africa
  7. WHO releases first global guideline on infertility care. Reddit; 2025. Available from: https://www.reddit.com/r/EmbryologyIVFSupport/comments/1pcjrzh/who_releases_first_global_guideline_on/
  8. AP News. Pregnancy has become a nightmare for many women in Nigeria’s conflict-hit north. Available from: https://apnews.com/article/c5846961ed87cddd8a24d1c2b04564a0

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Cervical Cancer: What Every Woman Should Know

Cancer, Community Development, Cultural practices in Africa, Female Genital Mutilation, Female Roles in Nation Building, Gender, Gender Based Violence, Gender Equality, Girl Education, Health, Menstrual Health and Hygiene, Monday Health Burst, Stop FGM, VVF, WHO, Women, Women Education /

Cervical cancer remains a significant public health concern for women both globally and in Nigeria, yet it is largely preventable and treatable when detected early. Understanding its causes, risk factors, prevention strategies, and interventions is critical for improving women’s health outcomes. Cervical cancer develops in the cervix, the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina and is one of the most common cancers affecting women worldwide. In 2022, an estimated 660,000 new cervical cancer cases were reported globally, with about 350,000 deaths attributed to the disease, largely in low- and middle-income countries due to disparities in prevention and care access [1].

Almost all cervical cancers, over 99%, are caused by persistent infection with high-risk types of Human Papillomavirus (HPV), a sexually transmitted virus. While most HPV infections are naturally cleared by the immune system, persistent infection with oncogenic HPV types, particularly HPV 16 and 18, can lead to abnormal cell changes and eventual cancer over many years if not identified and treated [2]. Beyond HPV infection, several factors increase the risk of cervical cancer in women. HIV infection and weakened immunity accelerate cancer progression [1]. Smoking impairs immune response and promotes cellular changes [3]. Early onset of sexual activity, multiple sexual partners, and long-term use of certain hormonal contraceptives also contribute to heightened risk [4].

Cervical cancer is highly preventable and much more treatable when detected early. HPV vaccination, administered to girls typically aged 9 to 14, is highly effective at preventing infections that cause most cervical cancers [1]. Regular screening through Pap smears or HPV tests allows for the detection of precancerous changes before they progress to cancer, significantly improving treatment outcomes [2]. Despite these preventive measures, in Nigeria, cervical cancer remains the second most frequent cancer among women and a leading cause of cancer-related death [5]. Awareness and screening uptake are low, particularly in rural areas, due to financial barriers, limited access to screening facilities, and insufficient information about prevention [6].

To further reduce the burden of cervical cancer, it is essential to scale up HPV vaccination campaigns targeting adolescent girls before exposure to the virus, expand the availability and affordability of cervical cancer screening at primary healthcare levels, and strengthen health education to promote understanding of cervical health through sustained community engagement. Addressing gender and social barriers that limit women’s access to preventive care is also critical. Cervical cancer should not be a life sentence. With knowledge, preventive action, and supportive community health services, every woman can protect her health and future.

References

  1. World Health Organization. Human papillomavirus (HPV) and cervical cancer fact sheet. Dec 2025. Available from: https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/human-papillomavirus-%28hpv%29-and-cervical-cancer
  2. World Health Organization. Cervical cancer prevention, diagnosis, and screening overview. Available from: https://www.who.int/cancer/prevention/diagnosis-screening/cervical-cancer/en/
  3. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Cervical Cancer Risk Factors. Available from: https://www.cdc.gov/cervical-cancer/risk-factors/index.html
  4. National Cancer Institute. Cervical Cancer Causes, Risk Factors, and Prevention. Available from: https://www.cancer.gov/types/cervical/causes-risk-prevention
  5. World Health Organization Regional Office for Africa. Cervical cancer early detection saves lives (Nigeria). Available from: https://www.afro.who.int/countries/nigeria/news/cervical-cancer-early-detection-saves-lives
  6. The Guardian (Nigeria). Screening, awareness gaps slow cervical cancer elimination. Available from: https://guardian.ng/features/health/screening-awareness-gaps-slow-cervical-cancer-elimination/

 

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