Reproductive health

Reproductive health

The World Health Organization (WHO) defines reproductive health as being a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being (WHO 2015). The concept of reproductive health therefore covers the full spectrum from sexual relationships and contraception through to being able to choose when to become pregnant and how to optimise the chances of a healthy pregnancy and delivery.

This resource, consisting of five assessment questions at advanced level, tests your knowledge of these issues. The advanced level of these questions reflects the fact that they are aimed at people working in an extended role who are also likely to be independent nurse prescribers. Complete the resource, including the recommended reading and some or all of the suggested activities, to obtain a certificate for one hour of continuing professional development to include in your annual portfolio. You can save featured articles to ‘My Folders’ and use the ‘Save Reflections’ facility to record activities.

Aims and objectives

On completion of this resource, you should have an understanding of:

• The importance of offering contraception advice for people of reproductive age
• The role of the GPN in pre-conceptual counselling
• How to assist people with sub-fertility problems
• The GPN’s responsibilities when caring for pregnant women
• How to support women who have suffered from female genital mutilation to optimise their reproductive health