Message from the Minister of Health and the Minister of Mental Health and Addictions – Sexual and Reproductive Health Awareness Week

Sexual and Reproductive Health Awareness Week (February 14 – 18) is a time to raise awareness about the importance of sexual and reproductive health.

February 14 - 18 marks Sexual and Reproductive Health Awareness Week in Canada, a yearly campaign designed to raise awareness on sexual and reproductive health and promote resources to improve community health in Canada.

More than prevention from infection or illness, taking care of our sexual and reproductive health encompasses our wellbeing, quality of life, ability to develop healthy relationships, and freedom to be who we are.

Our government is committed to ensuring that Canada is a place where everyone is free to be their true, authentic selves. Members of Parliament unanimously supported our ban on the harmful and discriminatory practice of conversion therapy in Canada.

Sexual and reproductive health also means being informed, having a positive and respectful approach to sexuality and sexual relationships, understanding consent, and setting personal boundaries. This includes knowing what you can do to care for your sexual and reproductive health, respective risks, knowing your body, and speaking up for your wellbeing.

Even though sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are common, treatable, and in many cases, curable, they continue to be a significant public health concern because the latest trends show that rates of chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis have increased significantly over the past decade.

Human papillomavirus (HPV) continues to be one of the most common STIs in Canada. While it is possible for HPV to clear on its own, in some cases HPV can lead to serious health problems, including cervical cancer. Screening for cervical cancer can lead to earlier treatment and better outcomes. Fortunately, there are also highly effective vaccines that guard against HPV. Talking to a healthcare provider about preventing HPV and other STBBIs is an important first step.

Many are still hesitant about accessing sexual and reproductive health services because of shame fueled by stigma. Women, youth, LGBTQ2, racialized, and Indigenous populations in Canada continue to face the highest risks while also facing the most significant barriers to accessing services. That is why our Government is investing $45 million to support community-based organizations making sexual and reproductive health care, information, and services more accessible for those who need it most.

We are also working to eliminate sexually transmitted and blood-borne infection (STBBIs) as a public health concern by 2030 through our Five-Year Action Plan on STBBIs. As STBBIs continue to affect certain populations disproportionately, the work of healthcare providers and community-based organizations remains central to Canada’s ability to reduce barriers and address systemic inequities. These groups have worked tirelessly throughout the pandemic, demonstrating remarkable resiliency and innovation, supporting the health of their clients, and connecting them to the services and resources they need.

Sexual and reproductive health is vital to our overall wellbeing at all ages and stages of our life. Take action and prioritize your health. Get informed, seek out the care you need to support your health, and make sexual and reproductive healthcare part of your health routine.

The Honourable Jean-Yves Duclos, P.C., M.P.
The Honourable Carolyn Bennett, P.C., M.P.

Contacts

Marie-France Proulx
Press Secretary
Office of the Honourable Jean-Yves Duclos
Minister of Health
613-957-0200

Maja Staka
Office of the Honourable Carolyn Bennett
Minister of Mental Health and Addictions
613-957-0200

Media Relations
Health Canada
613-957-2983 
media@hc-sc.gc.ca