The importance of women’s health care

Reproductive and sexual health care resources for women in Ontario.

Courtesy of reproductive health supplies coalition

Access to comprehensive sexual and reproductive health care is fundamental in promoting women’s well-being and general autonomy as people. In Ontario, a wide array of services and resources are available to support women with their sexual and reproductive health needs.

Contraception and family planning

Family planning services are necessary for women to make informed decisions about their reproductive health. Ontario offers various resources, including clinics and sexual health centres, where women can access contraceptive counselling, education and prescriptions for birth control methods.

These services aim to support women in choosing the contraceptive method that aligns with their individual needs and preferences.

Sexual health and STI screening/testing

Regular sexual health screening is crucial for the early detection and prevention of sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

Ontario provides accessible and confidential STI testing services through public health clinics, sexual health centres and family doctors. These services offer testing, counselling and treatment for STIs, guaranteeing that women can maintain their sexual health and well-being.

Reproductive and pregnancy healthcare

Ontario offers reproductive health care services to support women throughout different stages of their reproductive journey.

Women can access counselling, prenatal care and postnatal support through family health care teams, midwifery services and obstetric care providers. These services focus on promoting healthy pregnancies, addressing the health concerns of expecting parents and ensuring the well-being of both mother and child.

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Abortion services

Women in Ontario have the right to access safe and legal abortion services. A range of options are available including clinics, hospitals and specialized abortion care providers. These services provide counselling, medical procedures and support to ensure that women can make informed choices related to their reproductive health.

Sexual and reproductive education

Education plays a very important role in empowering women to make informed decisions about their sexual and reproductive health.

Ontario offers sexual health education in schools and community centres, providing information on topics such as contraception, STIs, consent and healthy relationships. There are also online resources, helplines and educational materials available to address specific sexual and reproductive health concerns.

Access to sexual and reproductive health care is a fundamental human right for women in Canada. Ontario works hard to provide a variety of services that allow women to stay educated about their sexual and reproductive wellness and access necessary health care. This fosters a society where women’s rights and autonomy are respected and upheld.

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Here are some more specific resources for women in Ontario to access a variety of sexual and reproductive health care services:

Planned Parenthood Toronto

Planned Parenthood Toronto offers a wide range of sexual and reproductive health services including contraception counselling, STI testing and treatment, abortion services and pregnancy options counselling.

Sexual health clinics

Ontario has numerous sexual health clinics operated by public health units. These clinics provide confidential and free or low-cost services such as STI testing, contraception counselling, emergency contraception and sexual health education. Examples include Hassle Free Clinic in Toronto and Ottawa Public Health Sexual Health Clinics.

Women’s Health in Women’s Hands Community Health Centre (WHIWH)

WHIWH is a community health centre in Toronto that focuses on the health needs of Black women as well as women of colour in general. They offer a range of services including sexual and reproductive health care, prenatal care and culturally sensitive support.

Ontario Midwives

Ontario has a robust midwifery program, providing comprehensive care throughout pregnancy, childbirth and the postpartum period. Women can access midwifery services in various settings including community midwifery practices and birthing centres.

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Hospitals and family health groups

Many hospitals and family health teams across Ontario provide reproductive health care services including prenatal care, gynecological care and contraception counseling. Examples include the Women’s College Hospital in Toronto and the South Riverdale Community Health Centre in Toronto.

Shelters and support services

Women’s shelters and support services in Ontario often offer reproductive health care, counselling and support to women experiencing domestic violence or homelessness. Examples include Assaulted Women’s Helpline and Interval House in Toronto.

Here is a list of places in Ontario where women can receive sexual and reproductive health care: