In a society where discussing sexual and reproductive health is often wrapped in silence, Dr. Asil Al-Jallad, a 38-year-old gynecologist and mother of two, has taken it upon herself to break the barriers and bring vital knowledge to those who need it most. Hailing from a family deeply rooted in the medical field—her mother a gynecologist and her father a doctor—Asil's journey into the realm of sexual education began at a young age, where open conversations about the human body were a norm within her family.
During her school days, Asil's passion for volunteer work ignited, leading her to establish student associations dedicated to various community initiatives. However, as she embarked on her medical studies at the university, the demands of her study left little room for her beloved volunteer activities.
It wasn't until she completed her medical degree and began working as a resident in a hospital that her life took a transformative turn. A local association approached her to conduct an awareness session for girls residing in a shelter, many of whom had been victims of sexual assault.
Recalling that day, Asil remarked, "I was astonished by how little these girls knew about their own bodies, the changes that occur during puberty, and what to expect at each stage of development." She continued, "That moment made me realize that there were underserved groups in dire need of information about sexual and reproductive health, and it was my duty to provide them with this crucial knowledge."
I was astonished by how little these girls knew about their own bodies, the changes that occur during puberty, and what to expect at each stage of development.
Thus, Asil embarked on a mission to raise awareness about sexual and reproductive health for marginalized communities, both in person and through radio programs. With the advent of social media, she recognized the opportunity to reach an even wider audience. Asil began creating and sharing informative videos on various aspects of sexual and reproductive health.
While she received daily praise from parents and young people who benefited from her expertise, she also faced criticism from those who accused her of promoting foreign agendas and challenging local customs and traditions. Undeterred, Asil pressed forward, motivated by the positive impact of her work and the problems her guidance helped others avoid or resolve.
Addressing the challenges she faces, Dr. Asil acknowledged that one of her greatest obstacles is the reluctance of fellow medical professionals to join her in this important cause. She believes this reluctance stems from a fear of addressing taboos that may not align with their professional interests. Asil humorously noted, "The more awareness there is about sexual and reproductive health, the less demand there will be for obstetricians and gynecologists like me."
Looking ahead, Dr. Al-Jallad shared details about her ongoing project: a comprehensive Arabic guide to sexual and reproductive health designed to address the queries of adolescents, both boys and girls, using language that resonates with them and maintains scientific accuracy. Why focus on Arabic? Because the prevailing issue is the lack of Arabic resources that truly cater to our community's unique needs. This endeavor was sparked by the curiosity of her own children, inquiries from the young individuals she encountered during awareness sessions, and questions received via social media. Asil emphasized the paramount importance of delivering trustworthy information, particularly in an age where adolescents can readily seek answers on the internet.
"I envision this as a curriculum that cherishes our cultural values and is crafted through collaborations among healthcare professionals, religious leaders, social advocates, and psychologists. It's aimed at preparing our adolescents, newlyweds, and families for the journey of growing up and adapting, equipping them to address, understand, and resolve their challenges with minimal repercussions," Dr. Al-Jallad elaborated with passion.
Throughout her dedicated mission, Dr. Asil Al-Jallad built meaningful partnerships with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), embarking on a series of impactful events and awareness initiatives dedicated to issues surrounding sexual and reproductive health and rights. This collaboration not only amplified the reach of her efforts but also underscored the significance of her cause on an international scale. Together with UNFPA, Asil conducted workshops, seminars, and educational sessions that touched the lives of countless individuals, empowering them with the knowledge and tools to make informed decisions about their sexual and reproductive well-being. These joint endeavors stood as a testament to the power of collective action in breaking down barriers and promoting access to vital healthcare information for all.
In conclusion, Dr. Asil Al-Jallad remains steadfast in her mission. She envisions a day when her dream is realized, her initiative recognized, and its impact acknowledged. Moreover, she hopes her work serves as an inspiration for others, both within Jordan and beyond, to continue breaking the silence surrounding sexual and reproductive health, empowering generations to come.
