The teaching of evidence-based reproductive health in developing countries

Evidence-based medicine is gaining increased importance in clinical practice. Unfortunately, prevailing circumstances have prevented this application of the best available evidence to clinical decision-making for reproductive health in developing countries. Poor infrastructure, inadequate personnel, gross underfunding of services for health and education as well as a conservative education system are obstacles in effecting change. By examining these impediments, we suggest strategies for clinical education and research with the aim of improving reproductive health care in developing countries. Evidence-based reproductive health will be promoted through access to appropriate information, interest from government and consumers, curriculum changes, application of research findings and finally, the judicious use of its principles in clinical practice.