ProAves and Women for Conservation conducted the fourth vasectomy brigade in the city of Medellín for two days. During this event, 17 men from the municipality of El Carmen de Atrato, which is within the buffer zone of the ProAves Las Tangaras Reserve in Chocó, decided to undergo vasectomy, an important step for family planning in the region and the conservation of our planet.
Unfortunately, rural populations lack access to reproductive health services such as vasectomies, requiring them to travel to major cities, which hinders men from exercising their right to decide and act for the planet’s care.
Recognizing the vital role of the “Healthy Communities for Healthy Habitats” program, we have been providing comprehensive support to participants of these brigades, offering free medical procedures, food, transportation, and accommodation, ensuring that all logistical needs are met. This allows people from the most vulnerable areas within the buffer zones of the ProAves Reserves to access these services.
There is a direct connection between overpopulation and pressure on natural resources. Access to family planning benefits wildlife and key ecosystems in areas like El Carmen de Atrato, Chocó, where the ProAves Las Tangaras Reserve is located. From this reserve, we promote environmental education, conservation, and research activities. This protected area is part of the Chocó Biogeographic region and was recently declared the First Regional Park of Chocó. It is one of the five richest bird sites in Colombia according to eBird, with 557 species, including endemic birds or those classified as threatened with extinction.
Vasectomy is a safe method of family planning that provides men with the opportunity to take a leading role in decision-making regarding reproduction and the overpopulation affecting the planet. By choosing this procedure, participants are contributing to their well-being, quality of life, and environmental stewardship.
“I decided to undergo vasectomy to contribute to the conservation of our planet by preventing overpopulation. I am certain of the importance of our role in family planning so that it does not become solely the responsibility of women”.
Augusto Alexander MachadoParticipant of the fourth vasectomy brigade
To date, 63 men from El Carmen de Atrato have embraced family planning, representing a step forward in promoting reproductive health in this municipality. At ProAves and Women for Conservation, we remain committed to family planning, gender equity, and environmental conservation. Furthermore, we continue to break down stigmas and barriers by providing knowledge and access to these medical procedures.
This program is made possible thanks to the support of Women for Conservation and World Vasectomy Day.
