Humanitarian agencies say women and menstruating people are also facing alarming rates of severe infections due to Israel's blockade of supplies and water.
One hospital worker said she’s encountering “numerous instances of fever directly linked to vaginal yeast infections" due to the absence of feminine products.
Here we reflect on the mixed picture that was 2023, by sharing some of the highs and lows in areas including access to abortion care, sex workers' rights, LGBTIQ+ rights, gender equality and contraception.