Reproductive Health, an international, open-access journal published by BioMed Central, focuses on advancing the understanding of family planning, maternal health, and sexual health, in alignment with Sustainable Development Goal 3 (SDG3) targets 3.1 and 3.7.

Reducing maternal mortality (3.1) and ensuring universal access to sexual and reproductive health (SRH) care services (3.7) are key targets set by the United Nations, with the aim of reducing the global maternal mortality ratio to less than 70 per 100,000 live births and increasing the proportion of women of reproductive age (aged 15-49 years) who have their need for family planning satisfied with modern methods.

Progress in these areas has been mixed. Whilst the global maternal mortality ratio marginally declined from 227 maternal deaths per 100,000 live births in 2015 to 223 in 2020, regions such as sub-Saharan Africa and Southern Asia continue to see high maternal death rates. Similarly, whilst we have seen an increase of more than 75 million women using modern methods of family planning since 2015, some 270 million women lack access to modern contraceptive methods, particularly those in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). To meet these SDG3 targets by 2030, substantial investment is needed to address these challenges, with a particular focus on vulnerable groups and regions.
 
Reproductive Health provides a platform to address critical issues affecting SRH across diverse populations, with an emphasis on LMICs. Recognising the need for evidence-based approaches to improve health outcomes, the journal publishes an array of study designs from scoping reviews, to qualitative research, to implementation science, with a focus on globally relevant research. In a recent study, Logie et al. conducted a comprehensive review of literature published from 1998 to 2023, analysing 92 studies across 100 countries to assess the SRH needs of forcibly displaced persons living in urban LMICs. They focused on various dimensions of SRH, including comprehensive sexuality education and safe abortion care. The review highlights that significant barriers exist that hinder access to essential SRH services, necessitating innovative approaches to address these challenges and achieve target 3.7.
 
To further this, the journal publishes implementation science as researchers aim to integrate evidence-based practices into routine use in health care and public health settings. The Adequate Childbirth Program aims to address the high rates of unnecessary cesaerean sections in Brazilian private hospitals. Following its implementation, significant changes were observed in labour and childbirth care practices, including the adoption of skin-to-skin contact and improved prenatal education. In an analysis by de Oliveira et al., the impact of the program was evaluated and revealed positive shifts towards more supportive practices for women. The implications of this study are significant for improving maternal care and addressing target 3.1 in reducing maternal mortality and increasing the proportion of births attended by skilled health personnel.
 
Reproductive Health has experienced significant growth, establishing itself as a leading platform for research and discourse on reproductive health, rights, and technologies worldwide. "Through its commitment to rigorous scientific inquiry and inclusive, evidence-based practices, the journal plays a vital role in advancing the understanding of reproductive health issues that affect millions," Editors-in-Chief Dr Sanni Yaya and Dr Bright Ahinkorah explain. "Supporting SDG3 is crucial, as it encompasses universal access to sexual and reproductive health services, maternal health improvements, and the prevention of diseases, aligning directly with the journal’s mission," the Editors-in-Chief confirm. "By promoting research that addresses inequalities and improves health outcomes, Reproductive Health contributes meaningfully toward achieving SDG3 and fostering a healthier, more equitable future."

Reproductive Health is currently calling for research on enhancing gender equity in reproductive health service access to address target 3.7 and SDG5 and has recently launched a special issue on comprehensive sexuality education to address the needs of adolescents and young people.