Photo Credit: onefertility.com

⚕️Improving Equitable Access to Sexual and Reproductive Health Services Across the Country

Thursday, 12 March 2026 12:00.PM

Women in Canada deserve better access to sexual and reproductive health (SRH) services, along with resources that are safe, accurate, and free from stigma. Yet many women continue to face significant barriers when seeking access to essential services--such as abortion, fertility treatment, endometriosis care, and menopause support. Addressing these gaps is critical to ensuring that all women can make informed decisions about their health and receive timely, compassionate, and comprehensive care.

The Honourable Marjorie Michel, Minister of Health, announced over $5.4 million to support five national organizations through the Sexual and Reproductive Health Fund to reduce barriers to sexual and reproductive health services. The fund supports a wide range of evidence-informed and innovative projects that improve access for women and other underserved groups to the sexual and reproductive health services and resources they need. Organizations receiving funding through today's announcement include:

• Abortion Care Canada with $949,038
• Fertility Matters Canada with $860,078
• the Canadian Association of Midwives with $728,305
• the Endometriosis Network Canada with $966,884
• the Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada with $1.93 million

With this funding, these organizations will develop resources and build awareness in relation to abortion care, endometriosis care, fertility services, and menopause and perimenopause management. The projects will help improve the care they receive and address barriers that may affect women's access to the care they need, such as stigma and discrimination, and geographic isolation in rural communities.

A strong society and economy is built on women's equality, where women can achieve success without systemic barriers holding them back. By improving access to information, tools, and supports for these health conditions, we can help women thrive, strengthening Canada's workforce and economy.

"Access to sexual and reproductive health care is essential to a person's health, autonomy and full participation in society. This investment will support organizations across the country to close gaps in access to needed care for women and girls. By strengthening these supports, we are supporting people to participate fully in work, family and community life, building a stronger economy and healthier communities across Canada."
- The Honourable Marjorie Michel, Minister of Health

Quick Facts

• The Sexual and Reproductive Health Fund was created to support a wide range of evidence-informed and innovative projects for Canadians who are at increased risk for poorer sexual and reproductive health outcomes, including youth, members of 2SLGBTQI+ communities, Indigenous and racialized people.
• Since 2021, through the Sexual and Reproductive Health Fund, the Government of Canada has provided $86.4 million to support 40 projects that reduce barriers to sexual and reproductive health services and supports for underserved communities.
• Endometriosis can significantly disrupt women's participation in school, work, and community life. For many, unmanaged symptoms can lead to missed opportunities, reduced productivity, and difficulty engaging fully in day–to–day activities.
• Menopause can likewise have measurable economic impacts, often occurring during years when women are in senior roles or at peak earning potential. When symptoms go unsupported, the effects can be felt through reduced productivity, increased absenteeism, and broader impacts on organizational performance.

SOURCE: Health Canada (HC)

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