Gender looks at how men and women relate to one another , and their different needs and experiences. But it also highlights inequalities between all people. For example women of different ages may have different levels of authority and be given different roles and responsibilities. So gender deals with power between people and asks questions about why women and girls are so often denied access to opportunities, and resources. Most importantly a gender approach recognises that societies build ideals and norms about men and women, some of which need to be challenged.
Gender comes into all areas of relationships and sexuality.
Health professionals may discourage young people from seeking advice and treatment for sexual and reproductive health problems. On top of this young women may be unable to use services without the consent of their parents or husband, undermining their right to privacy and freedom of thought. Young men may also feel discouraged from participating in family planning-often seen as a woman's issue. Statistics give some idea of the inequalities young women experience. These inequalities are, in part, a result of the prejudices and discrimination that young women face in access to information and services, in participating in decision making, and in getting equal status with others.