Reproductive health financing for flood-displaced women: A systematic review

Dongli Peng, Atiqah B. fayyaz, Shafei M. Hali, Hassan J. Shah

Abstract

Pakistan is one of the top ten countries most vulnerable to climate-induced disasters, where frequent floods have displaced millions and disrupted essential services, particularly healthcare. Women of reproductive age are the most affected, facing limited access to basic sexual and reproductive health and rights  (SRHR) services, including antenatal care, safe delivery, family planning, and menstrual hygiene. Despite these critical needs, SRHR remains consistently underfunded in humanitarian responses, reflecting ongoing neglect in disaster risk reduction and health system planning. This paper presents findings from a systematic literature review on SRHR financing for flood-displaced women in Pakistan, focusing on the 2010 and 2022 floods. Results, thematically coded, are cross-referenced with peer-reviewed studies, government policies, and reports from humanitarian agencies (UNFPA, WHO, NDMA), highlighting gaps in service delivery, financial allocation, and policy integration. The analysis reveals a fragmented response: NGOs often provide SRHR services without state coordination; planning lacks gender sensitivity; and support ends after short-term emergency phases. The study underscores the structural absence of displaced women’s SRHR in both financing and policy frameworks. To address these gaps, the paper recommends gender-responsive health financing, integration of SRHR into disaster preparedness plans, and establishment of sustainable funding streams to protect women’s health rights during crises

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