Zika virus can be transmitted sexually female-to-male or male-to-female. The virus can be present without people being aware of it. It poses grave consequences for pregnant women. It can result in severe neurological conditions, such as Guillain-Barré Syndrome and Zika congenital syndrome, including microcephaly. Responding to the Zika crisis has shed light on much bigger health systems challenges in affected countries, including lack of access to comprehensive contraceptive information and services in some communities affected or threatened by the Zika virus. Family planning can reduce the risk of Zika-related birth defects by allowing women and couples to delay or avoid pregnancy if they wish.
