Gender has a different meanings from what is commonly understood; it refers to the roles that societies and culture assign to persons, based on sex. It is strong, but often unacknowledged part of what we learn as we grow up.
For example, it is reflected in how we treat each other and ourselves. These divisions of roles and responsibilities are not equal between men and women, and women are usually less powerful and there have restricted roles to perform.
This situation affects individuals, families and communities significantly and profoundly impacts sexuality, reproductive health and development.