Social Media as a Platform for Participating in Sexual and Reproductive Issues for People with Disabilities

Abstract

The majority of the over one billion people with disabilities (PWDs) around the world face challenges related to sexual and reproductive health (SRH) information. The main causes are cultural, legal, political and social practices that continue to marginalize people with disabilities when it comes to sexual and reproductive health. Literature shows that societies do not approve for PWDs to engage in sexual and reproductive issues. PWDs were regarded as people without sexual feelings. Women with disabilities were sterilized without their consent. PWDs were seen as people who cannot make decisions when it comes to sexual and reproductive rights. PWDs are also systemically denied the opportunity to access SRHinformation. Social media is providing alternative sources of information and learning platforms to women with disabilities. The chapter will also discuss how women with disabilities are benefitting from social media platforms in the area of SRH.