Reproductive Health in Ukraine

Project Kesher supported a trauma-informed initiative to reach Ukrainian women and girls in crisis with first aid rape kits. PK was first contacted a couple of months ago about the need for a first aid response to sexual assault in the conflict zones. 1,000 kits with Plan B have now been distributed in Ukraine and included sanitary pads, informational support pamphlets, and items such as wipes, ibuprofen, deodorant, and lip balm. Many of the contents, including the medication, were purchased in Europe, and the self-care products were created by a woman entrepreneur in Bucha, Ukraine. Our distribution networks have recently found that it is nearly impossible to get rape kits into conflict zones, where they are most needed right now, because of the risk and because life-saving medication for soldiers is being prioritized. In consultation with women doctors based in Ukraine, PKU has decided to focus on hygiene and reproductive medical supplies needed by women, particularly those who are pregnant or have recently given birth. We can access them effectively in de-occupied communities and near the conflict zones. Click here to read about additional trauma-informed initiatives that PK is leading.