In terms of sexual health, 2012 made the headlines a number of times – and with good reason. For the first time in a long time, sexual health was made a priority and really stood out in the media as a topic which needed to be discussed. Here are the top news stories and developments which made 2012 so vital to the improvement to sexual health.
1. In July, London made the headlines as Melinda Gates stated that family planning would be the main focus of her role for the next decade. Predominantly, many members of authority joined her in declaring that contraceptive methods should not be swathed in controversy. Abortion was also discussed, with many people agreeing that women’s rights weren’t at the fore and should be.
2. Obama’s re-election meant that US funding was still available for a wide range of sexual health and reproductive services. Women in the United States were also covered for contraception by their health insurance, which was a first for the country. However, the threat of political interference for the rights to a legal and safe abortion are still prevalent.
3. In Ireland and Northern Ireland, abortion has sparked a mighty debate for many years. In October, a new sexual health centre was set up in Belfast which means that women will have access to medical abortions under nine weeks if they meet specific criteria, as well as medical advice.
4. Afghanistan made the media in 2012 for the first ever policy on post-abortion care. This is a rare story from a war torn country which promises women will receive better care and advice after such serious procedures.
5. 2012 saw a great development in Australia, which was the fact that women are now able to register for mifepristone, also referred to as the ‘abortion drug’. This means that if women opt for an abortion, more will have the option of taking pills rather than having to resort to surgery.
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