Canadians deserve access to sexual and reproductive health services and resources that are safe, accurate and stigma-free. However, members of marginalized groups often experience barriers to care. By improving culturally safe and relevant care to underserved populations, including members of 2SLGBTQI+ communities, Indigenous and racialized people, women, and youth, we can ensure that Canadians get the health care they need.
During Sexual Health Week, the Honourable Mark Holland, Minister of Health, announced over $1.7 million in funding to support projects led by the Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada and the Sex Information and Education Council of Canada. Through the Sexual and Reproductive Health Fund, these projects will improve access to vital sexual and reproductive services and reduce barriers to care for these underserved communities, through health care provider training, awareness campaigns, and culturally relevant tools and resources. These projects were chosen following a targeted Call for Proposals, launched in 2024, to fund community-based organizations that help make sexual and reproductive health services more accessible for people in Canada.
The Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada will receive more than $1.2 million over three years to develop and distribute tools and resources for health care providers and people going through menopause to improve access to menopause-specific health services. The project will also produce updated clinical practice guidelines for menopause care with significant attention on under-served women (BIPOC and 2SLGBTQI+ Peoples) and non-binary people.
The Sex Information and Education Council of Canada will receive more than $544,000 over three years to address sexual and reproductive health and sexual health education misinformation among parents and caregivers of school-aged youth. An advisory council of subject matter experts and people with lived experience informed by focus groups and various stakeholders in the field of education will guide the activities.
Since 2021, the Government of Canada has provided $81 million through the Sexual and Reproductive Health Fund so Canadians can access safe and relevant sexual and reproductive health services. The Government of Canada remains committed to enhancing the availability and accessibility of reliable, evidence-based sexual and reproductive health services and information.
