International Day of Action for Women and Health - May 28, 2004

Since 1987, women's organizations all over the world have participated in the annual International Day of Action for Women's Health. Each year, a call to action goes out to women’s health groups worldwide. From 1990 onwards, the Calls for Action addressed specific issues regarding maternal mortality and morbidity. Since the late ’90s, the topics have been broadened to cover issues such as health sector reforms, AIDS, trade agreements, etc. The goal of the observance is to offer a fresh look at women's health needs within the framework of primary health care.

The Office of Population and Reproductive Health is using this commemoration to showcase some of our important work in women's health.

Female Genital Mutilation/Cutting

In September 2000, USAID's Office of Population and Reproductive Health announced a policy recognizing femal genital mutilation/cutting (FGM/C) as a harmful practice “that violates the health and human rights of women and hinders development” and incorporated eradication of FGM/C into its development agenda.

Learn about USAID's Policy on female genital mutilation/cutting.

Female Genital Mutilation/Cutting Zero Tolerance Day in Review – 2/6/04

Obstetric Fistula and Postpartum Hemorrhage

USAID's maternal health activities can help reduce the occurrence of obstetric fistula by advancing and promoting best practices and programs to prevent this devastating pregnancy complication.

Obstetric Fistula: A Devastating Injury

USAID Activities to Prevent Fistula

USAID's Obstetric Fistula Strategy

USAID: Preventing Postpartum Hemorrhage

Related Brochures and Publications

Get the Facts! People and the Environment – Not an Either/Or Proposition

Family Plannning Saves Women's Lives

Birth Spacing: A Call to Action [PDF, 172KB]

Birth Spacing: Research Update [MS Word, 175KB]