The majority of women in the Federated States of Micronesia who use health services do so, not because they are ill, but because the nature of their reproductive and domestic roles and responsibilities require them to safeguard and protect the health and well-being of their families. These reproductive and domestic responsibilities have often had the effect, however, of creating heavy workloads, malnutrition, illiteracy, and decreased health status among both women and children. Education is required so that men would learn to respect women's self determination and to share responsibility with women in matters of sexuality and reproduction. Women must be provided with access to family planning services during all stages of pregnancy. Too many unmarried teenage pregnancies are occurring because young women have limited access to family planning advice.
Teenage pregnancy is a major reason for girls dropping out of high school and college.
Teenage mothers are also likely to have low birth weight babies. Efforts are being made to help women understand more about their reproductive health so they can make the most informed decisions about their own reproduction. We believe that healthy reproduction benefits the entire nation. Madam President, Having said this, the Federated States of Micronesia recognizes that population, economics and the environment are interrelated and all have consequences for women. Care of children, the sick and elderly is a responsibility that falls disproportionately on women.