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Abstract

Abortion in Ghana is legally permissible under certain conditions. Updated in June 2021, the National Comprehensive Abortion Care Services Standards and Protocols included telemedicine as a recognised option for early medical abortion (EMA). Subsequently, Marie Stopes Ghana launched this pilot project to understand the feasibility and acceptability of providing EMA services through telemedicine. The pilot evaluation drew on two research protocols - a process evaluation and a qualitative study. The process evaluation focused on existing routine data sources and additional pilot-specific monitoring, while the qualitative protocol included in-depth interviews with a range of key stakeholders, including telemedicine and in-person patients, healthcare managers, and service providers. Telemedicine for EMA is feasible, acceptable, and has likely expanded access to safe abortion in Ghana. The MSIG telemedicine service package enabled 97% of patients to have a successful EMA at home. Thirty-six per cent of the total 878 patients during the pilot reported that they had no other option for accessing an abortion. Patients described telemedicine EMA services as a highly acceptable and appealing service option. Eighty-four per cent reported they would opt for the telemedicine service again and 83% reported they were very likely to recommend the service. There is potential for telemedicine to expand and improve access to critical SRH services. EMA via telemedicine can be delivered effectively in a low-resource setting. This pilot also showed how telemedicine provides access to patients who feel they do not have other safe service options, meeting specific patient needs in terms of discretion, convenience, and timing.

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Article Details

Title:
Expanding access to early medical abortion services in Ghana with telemedicine: findings from a pilot evaluation.

Author(s):
Adu J; Roemer M; Page G; Dekonor E; Akanlu G; Fofie C; Teye MD; Afriyie PO; Affram AA; Ohemeng F; Tabong PT; Dwomoh D

Summary:
In Ghana, telemedicine for early medical abortion (EMA) is a new option and it helps people who might not have other choices for safe abortion access. A project showed that most people found telemedicine easy and helpful, with many saying they would use it again or recommend it to others. It can make getting safe health services easier in places where resources are limited.

Meta:
pubmed id: 37728548 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

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Abstract

People seeking abortion may need or want emotional or informational support before, during, and after their abortion. Feeling supported and affirmed contributes to perceptions of quality care. The All-Options Talkline offers free, telephone-based, peer counselling to callers anywhere in the United States. This study aimed to explore the types of support received through the Talkline and the ways it supplemented other forms of support received by people who obtained an abortion. Between May 2021 and February 2022, we conducted 30 interviews via telephone or Zoom with callers recruited through the Talkline. We coded the interviews and conducted thematic analysis, focusing on themes related to gaps of support from family, friends, and healthcare professionals, as well as types of support received through the Talkline. We identified four key motivations for calling the Talkline, including the need for (1) decision-making support and validation, (2) a neutral perspective, (3) emotional support to discuss negative or complex feelings, and (4) information about the abortion process. Participants indicated that interactions with family, friends, and healthcare professionals ranged from unsupportive and negative, to substantially supportive. Access to the Talkline was particularly useful prior to clinical interactions and in the weeks or months after an abortion. We found that the All-Options Talkline provided person-centred, remote support for callers, filling gaps or supplementing support from one's community or healthcare professionals. Abortion support from non-medically trained support people contributes to high-quality abortion care, especially in a time of increasing abortion restrictions and use of remote abortion services.

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Article Details

Title:
Emotional, informational, and decision-making support needs among people seeking abortion in the US: perspectives from All-Options Talkline callers.

Author(s):
Seymour JW; Goode BA; Guerrero P; Campos AM; Kyles K; Dreyfus-Pai P; Baum SE

Summary:
The study looked at a phone support line called the All-Options Talkline, which helps people who need support before, during, and after an abortion. They found that people called for help with making decisions, getting a neutral opinion, talking about feelings, and learning about the abortion process. This Talkline was very helpful when other support was not available or was not enough.

Meta:
pubmed id: 37728428 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

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Abstract

To document physicians' beliefs about abortion safety and the associations between these beliefs and physician support for, referral for, and participation in abortion care.

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Article Details

Title:
Physician beliefs about abortion safety and their participation in abortion care.

Author(s):
Swan LET; Cutler AS; Lands M; Schmuhl NB; Higgins JA

Summary:
This study looks at what doctors think about how safe abortions are. It also checks how these beliefs affect their support, their referrals, and their involvement in abortion care.

Meta:
pubmed id: 37722252 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

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Abstract

Visual imagery has been used to educate healthcare providers, patients, and the lay public on female genital cutting (FGC) typology and reconstructive procedures. However, culturally inclusive, diverse, and anatomically accurate representation of vulvas informed by women possessing lived experience of FGC is lacking.

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Article Details

Title:
Beautiful vulvas: expanding illustrative visual imagery of female genital cutting types.

Author(s):
Chaisson N; Johnson-Agbakwu CE; Finch A; Salad M; Connor JJ; Chen M; Robinson BBE

Summary:
Pictures have been used to teach people about female genital cutting and how to fix it. But there aren't enough pictures that show what women's bodies look like after experiencing this in a way that is accurate and includes many different cultures.

Meta:
pubmed id: 37721173 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

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Abstract

Self-reporting female genital cutting (FGC) status and types by patients and clinicians is often inconsistent and inaccurate, particularly in community settings where clinically verifiable genital exams are not feasible or culturally appropriate.

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Article Details

Title:
Female genital cutting (FGC) type: proposing a multifaceted, interactive method for FGC self-assessment.

Author(s):
Johnson-Agbakwu CE; Chen M; Salad M; Chaisson N; Connor JJ; Robinson BBE

Summary:
Sometimes when people report about female genital cutting (FGC), the information can be wrong or different from what doctors see. This happens especially in places where doctors can't check because it's not possible or the culture doesn't allow it.

Meta:
pubmed id: 37721131 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

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Abstract

The ongoing quest to surgically create the (nearly) ideal neophallus in transgender men has led to the continuous development of transgender medicine and the proposed introduction of penis transplantation. However, both technical and ethical issues arise when developing this treatment.

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Article Details

Title:
Ethical considerations regarding penis transplantation surgery in transgender men-an empirical ethics study.

Author(s):
de Haseth KB; Gehrels AM; Widdershoven G; Bouman MB; van de Grift TC

Summary:
Scientists are trying to improve surgeries for transgender men who want a new penis, but there are challenges with the process and questions about ethics. They are even thinking about trying to transplant a real penis.

Meta:
pubmed id: 37720817 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

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Abstract

Although approximately 41% of women experience sexual dysfunction, limited education on female sexual medicine (FSM) in medical school results in underpreparedness among physicians when addressing these bothersome conditions.

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Article Details

Title:
Female sexual medicine: an assessment of medical school curricula in a major United States city.

Author(s):
Codispoti N; Negris O; Myers MC; Petersen A; Nico E; Romanello JP; Rubin RS

Summary:
Many women experience problems with sexual health, but doctors often don't learn about this in medical school. This means they might not be fully prepared to help with these issues.

Meta:
pubmed id: 37720816 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

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Abstract

Migrant women are less likely to receive an individualized maternal care where they feel safe, informed and supported but few measures have been undertaken to meet their needs. In Södertälje municipality in Sweden, community-based antenatal care midwives identify migrant women and offer them and their partners language-assisted information and support through an individual two-hour-visit to the labor ward. The aim of the present study was to explore migrant women's experiences of antenatal care including receiving language-assisted information and support during pregnancy through a two-hour INFOR-visit to the labor ward.

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Article Details

Title:
Migrant women's experiences of an individual language-assisted information and support visit to the labor ward before giving birth - A qualitative study from Sweden.

Author(s):
Ternström E; Small R; Lindgren H

Summary:
Migrant women often don't get the special care they need during pregnancy. In Sweden, some midwives are helping by giving them information in their own language during a special visit to the hospital. This study looked at what these women thought about the care they received.

Meta:
pubmed id: 37717410 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

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Abstract

Reducing the adolescent birth rate is paramount in achieving the health-related Sustainable Development Goals, given that pregnancy and childbirth are the leading cause of mortality among young women aged 15-19. This study aimed to explore predictors of adolescent pregnancy among girls aged 13-18 years in Maharashtra, India, during the COVID-19 pandemic. Using a mixed-methods approach, primary data were gathered from two regions in Maharashtra between February and April 2022. Quantitative data from face-to-face interviews with 3049 adolescent girls assessed various household, social, and behavioural factors, as well as the socioeconomic and health impacts of COVID-19. Qualitative data from seven in-depth interviews were analysed thematically. The findings reveal that girls from low socioeconomic backgrounds face a higher likelihood of adolescent pregnancy. Multivariable analysis identified several factors associated with increased risk, including older age, being married, having more sexual partners, and experiencing COVID-19-related economic vulnerability. On the other hand, rural residence, secondary and higher secondary education of the participants, and higher maternal education were associated with a decreased likelihood of adolescent pregnancy. In the sub-sample of 565 partnered girls, partner's emotional abuse also correlated with higher rates of adolescent pregnancy. Thematic analysis of qualitative data identified four potential pathways leading to adolescent pregnancy: economic hardships and early marriage; personal safety, social norms, and early marriage; social expectations; and lack of knowledge on contraceptives. The findings underscore the significance of social position and behavioural factors and the impact of external shocks like the COVID-19 pandemic in predicting adolescent pregnancy in Maharashtra, India. Adolescent pregnancy is an important health issue for young girls. In South Asia, one out of every five adolescent girls becomes a mother before turning 18, and in India, around 9% of girls aged 15-19 get pregnant yearly. This study focused on understanding the factors associated with adolescent pregnancy in Maharashtra, India, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic. We collected information from both urban and rural areas in Maharashtra. A total of 3049 adolescent girls participated in a survey, and seven girls participated in detailed interviews. Our analysis showed that factors like older age, being married, having multiple sexual partners, and experiencing economic difficulties due to COVID-19 increased the chances of adolescent pregnancy. On the other hand, living in rural areas, higher education for both the girls and their mothers reduced the likelihood of adolescent pregnancy. Qualitative analysis revealed that economic challenges, concerns about safety and societal norms, early marriage, societal expectations, and lack of knowledge about contraceptives could contribute to adolescent pregnancy in Maharashtra.

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Article Details

Title:
Factors associated with adolescent pregnancy in Maharashtra, India: a mixed-methods study.

Author(s):
Shukla S; Castro Torres AF; Satish RV; Shenderovich Y; Abejirinde IO; Steinert JI

Summary:
This study looked at why some girls in Maharashtra, India, had babies as teenagers, especially after COVID-19. It found that older girls, those who were married, or had economic struggles were more likely to become pregnant, while those with more education were less likely. The study also identified that challenges like early marriage, safety concerns, and not knowing about birth control played a role.

Meta:
pubmed id: 37712990 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

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Abstract

Previous studies have found high levels of unintended pregnancy among female sex workers (FSW), but less attention has been paid to their abortion practices and outcomes. This study is the first to investigate abortion-related mortality among FSW across eight countries: Angola, Brazil, Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), India, Indonesia, Kenya, Nigeria, and South Africa. The Community Knowledge Approach (CKA) was used to survey a convenience sample of FSW ( = 1280). Participants reported on the deaths of peer FSW in their social networks during group meetings convened by non-governmental organisations ( = 165 groups, conducted across 24 cities in 2019). Details on any peer FSW deaths in the preceding five years were recorded. The circumstances of abortion-related deaths are reported here. Of the 1320 maternal deaths reported, 750 (56.8%) were due to unsafe abortion. The number of abortion-related deaths reported was highest in DRC (304 deaths reported by 270 participants), Kenya (188 deaths reported by 175 participants), and Nigeria (216 deaths reported by 312 participants). Among the abortion-related deaths, mean gestational age was 4.6 months and 75% occurred outside hospital. Unsafe abortion methods varied by country, but consumption of traditional or unknown medicines was most common (37.9% and 29.9%, respectively). The 750 abortion-related deaths led to 1207 children being left motherless. The CKA successfully recorded a stigmatised practice among a marginalised population, identifying very high levels of abortion-related mortality. Urgent action is now needed to deliver comprehensive sexual and reproductive healthcare to this vulnerable population, including contraption, safe abortion, and post-abortion care.

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Article Details

Title:
The preventable burden of mortality from unsafe abortion among female sex workers: a Community Knowledge Approach survey among peer networks in eight countries.

Author(s):
Willis B; Church K; Perttu E; Thompson H; Weerasinghe S; Macias-Konstantopoulos W

Summary:
The study looked at how unsafe abortions affect female sex workers in eight countries. It found many deaths because of unsafe abortions, leaving over a thousand children without mothers. The research shows a need for better healthcare and safe practices for these women.

Meta:
pubmed id: 37712508 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

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Abstract

Rates of adolescent pregnancy within sub-Saharan Africa are increasing. Adolescent mothers ages 10-19 years face a distinct set of risks to their own and their children's health, compounded by many economic, social, and epidemiological challenges, such as living with HIV. In navigating this complex developmental period, many adolescent mothers face structural barriers impeding safe transitions to adulthood and motherhood. Drawing on existing literature and emerging data, we outline three normative, legal, and policy issues - violence and gender inequity, access to sexual and reproductive health services, and access to social and structural supports - which affect the health, wellbeing and development of adolescent mothers and their children. We also highlight emergent evidence about programming and policy changes that can better support adolescent mothers and their children. These key proposed responses include removing barriers to SRH and HIV service integration; ensuring implementation of return-to-school policies; and extending social protection systems to cater for adolescent mothers. Despite ongoing global crises and shifts in funding priorities, these normative, legal, and policy considerations remain critical to safeguard the health and wellbeing of adolescent mothers and their children.

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Article Details

Title:
Key normative, legal, and policy considerations for supporting pregnant and postpartum adolescents in high HIV-burden settings: a critical analysis.

Author(s):
Laurenzi CA; Toska E; Tallarico R; Sherr L; Steventon Roberts KJ; Hansen M; Tolmay J; Jochim J; Ameyan W; Yates R

Summary:
In sub-Saharan Africa, more teens are becoming mothers, and this brings health and safety challenges for them and their children. There are important issues like violence, no access to health services, and lack of support that make life hard for these young mothers. Solutions include making it easier for them to get health care, letting them go back to school, and giving them more social help.

Meta:
pubmed id: 37712411 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

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Abstract

Sexual violence and HIV/AIDS are major public health concerns in India. By promoting bodily autonomy, wellbeing, and dignity through knowledge and skills, comprehensive sexuality education for young people can help prevent adverse sexual and reproductive health outcomes. While there is increased recognition globally regarding young people's need for sexuality education, translating this recognition into accepted programmes in India has been challenging. This scoping review aims to examine recommendations for promising practices for the design and implementation of sexuality education programmes and resources aimed at youth in India. A systematic search and review of the literature was conducted from June to August 2020. Of the total 5312 citations identified and screened, 622 advanced to full-text screening, and 39 were included in the final analysis. Promising practices include the need to: tailor content to serve the needs of the specific youth population being targeted; use engaging and participatory methods to teach sexual health content; work in partnership and collaboration with local experts and organisations; address potential barriers to participation and work to mitigate those barriers for marginalised youth; be youth friendly, flexible and convenient; and to be developmentally and culturally appropriate for the Indian youth context. Sexuality education programmes should integrate into existing community services and link with local reproductive health services to help provide youth with access to the services they may need. Continued work and efforts are required to address the interrelated and broad structural factors, including political, financial, social, and cultural factors that affect youth sexual health and wellbeing.

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Article Details

Title:
Promising practices for the design and implementation of sexuality education programmes for youth in India: a scoping review.

Author(s):
Pattathil N; Roy A

Summary:
This paper looks at how sexuality education can help young people in India understand and take care of their bodies to prevent health problems. It found that programs should be fun, friendly, and work with local groups to help all kids, especially those who might face barriers. The paper highlights the need for these programs to fit well within the culture and needs of young people in India.

Meta:
pubmed id: 37712401 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

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Abstract

Many members of lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans and gender diverse, and queer (LGBTQ) communities provide informal mental health support to peers. This type of support is valuable for people who receive it - even helping to prevent suicide. It is also meaningful to those who provide it. In this article, we focus on how LGBTQ people derive meaning from their experiences of supporting peers. In-depth interviews with 25 LGBTQ people in Melbourne, Australia, indicate that those providing informal mental health support to fellow community members recognise their roles as meaningful in three main ways: in terms of self, relationships and communities. Recognising the meanings that LGBTQ caregivers derive from helping fellow community members provides useful information service providers and policymakers seeking to better address mental distress in LGBTQ communities and support caregivers. It is useful to understand this meaningful work in an LGBTQ context as caregiving that challenges gendered and heteronormative assumptions about what care is, and who provides it.

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Article Details

Title:
'It feels meaningful': How informal mental health caregivers in an LGBTQ community interpret their work and their role.

Author(s):
Worrell S; Waling A; Anderson J; Lyons A; Pepping CA; Bourne A

Summary:
LGBTQ people often help each other with mental health problems, which is very important and can even stop someone from feeling so sad they want to hurt themselves. This help makes both the person getting help and the person giving it feel good because it strengthens friendships and communities. Understanding how this works can help others who want to support LGBTQ people better.

Meta:
pubmed id: 37705445 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

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Abstract

Recent outbreaks of the mpox (monkeypox) virus have been detected in dense sexual networks of gay and bisexual men who have sex with men (GBMSM). The objective of this study is to describe and compare the epidemiological and behavioural characteristics, as well as the sexual networks, of GBMSM diagnosed with mild mpox in Spain.

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Article Details

Title:
Egocentric sexual network analysis among gay and bisexual men who have sex with men with and without mpox infection.

Author(s):
Sönmez İ; Martínez Riveros H; Folch C; Suñer C; Díaz Y; Alonso L; Agusti C; Mendoza A; Tarín-Vicente EJ; Oller X; Alemany A; Rivero À; Orviz E; Silva-Klug A; Mitjà O; Casabona J

Summary:
Researchers studied how the mpox virus spreads among gay and bisexual men in Spain. They looked at their health and behavior to understand how the virus is passed in their communities.

Meta:
pubmed id: 37704363 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

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Abstract

Vaginoplasty is a gender-affirming surgery that is medically necessary for some transfeminine individuals. Little research exists describing vaginal health after the initial recovery from surgery, and evidence-based guidelines for vaginal care practices are unavailable.

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Article Details

Title:
Gynecological concerns and vaginal practices and exposures among transfeminine individuals who have undergone vaginoplasty.

Author(s):
Hallarn J; Bauer GR; Potter E; Wilcox H; Newfeld J; Krakowsky Y; Ravel J; Prodger JL

Summary:
Vaginoplasty is an important surgery for some people who are transgender women. There isn't much research on how to keep the new vagina healthy after the surgery, and there aren't clear rules for taking care of it.

Meta:
pubmed id: 37700562 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

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Abstract

Incarcerated women experience high rates of HIV and sexually transmitted infections (STIs); few are offered HIV preexposure prophylaxis (PrEP). We aimed to examine HIV/STI screening rates in this population and identify PrEP eligibility.

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Article Details

Title:
HIV/Sexually Transmitted Infection Screening and Eligibility for HIV Preexposure Prophylaxis Among Women Incarcerated in an Urban County Jail.

Author(s):
Desai J; Krakower D; Harris BL; Culp S; Nijhawan AE

Summary:
The paper talks about women in jail who often get infections like HIV but don't get much help to prevent it. The researchers wanted to see how many of these women get tested for these infections and if they are eligible for a medicine that stops HIV.

Meta:
pubmed id: 37699368 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

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Abstract

Research investigating potential pathways from Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) to later self-harming and offending behaviours has inconsistent findings. Past research, however, has not fully explored the interplay between ACEs and modifiable psychological factors, such as shame and self-compassion. The present study explored the relationship between ACE, shame, and self-compassion to identify their role in explaining the variance in later harm in a sample of individuals who have committed sexual offences. Two hundred and fifty adults incarcerated for sexual offences participated. Multiple Regression and Mediation Analyses were applied to establish if ACE, shame and self-compassion explained the variance in harm and explore potential psychological pathways between ACE and harm, with shame and self-compassion as potential modifiable mediators. ACE, shame and self-compassion explained 55% of self-harm and 52% of psychological and physical harm variance. A more complex relationship was indicated for sexual harm, with only 19% of the variance explained by the model. The study increases our understanding of the relationship between variables and potential modifiable pathways between ACEs and later harming behaviours in a sample of individuals with sexual convictions. These modifiable psychological factors could be targeted to increase resilience, post-traumatic growth and reduce the risk of harm in later life.

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Article Details

Title:
Sexual Offending: Adverse Childhood Experiences, Shame, and Self-Compassion Explain the Variance in Self-Harm and Harm Towards Others?

Author(s):
Garbutt K; Rennoldson M; Gregson M

Summary:
The research looked at how tough childhoods, feelings of shame, and being kind to oneself can affect people later in life. It studied adults who did sexual offenses to see if these factors can explain why they might hurt themselves or others. The study found that these things could help explain why some people cause harm and suggested they could change to help people grow stronger and do better.

Meta:
pubmed id: 37695944 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

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Abstract

Physicians often report low levels of confidence in diagnosing and treating female sexual dysfunction (FSD), which may stem from inadequate education and exposure to the topic.

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Article Details

Title:
Female sexual dysfunction in undergraduate medical education: a survey of U.S. medical students.

Author(s):
Goddard B; Brucker B

Summary:
Doctors sometimes don't feel sure about how to find and treat problems related to women's sexual health. This might be because they haven't learned enough about it.

Meta:
pubmed id: 37692127 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

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Abstract

In the context of an expanding syphilis epidemic, we assessed the integration of sexually transmissible infection (STI) testing within annual health assessments for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people aged 16-29years in Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Services between 2018 and 2020.

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Article Details

Title:
Integrating testing for sexually transmissible infections into annual health assessments for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people: a cross-sectional analysis.

Author(s):
McCormack H; Wand H; Bourne C; Ward J; Bradley C; Mak D; Guy R

Summary:
Researchers looked at how well STI testing was being included in yearly check-ups for young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people due to a rising syphilis outbreak. They studied this from 2018 to 2020 in Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Services.

Meta:
pubmed id: 37690512 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

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Abstract

This Virtual Special Issue explores emerging topics in reproductive health in the Australian and New Zealand context. The included manuscripts cover pregnancy and termination of pregnancy, priority populations for sexual and reproductive health, digital technology and its impact on reproductive health, and perspectives from clinicians.

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Article Details

Title:
Emerging sexual and reproductive health in Australia and New Zealand: gaps, challenges and solutions.

Author(s):
Phillips TR; Chow EPF; Coombe J

Summary:
This special issue looks at topics about having babies and health in Australia and New Zealand. The studies talk about pregnancy, people who need special attention for health, how technology affects health, and what doctors think.

Meta:
pubmed id: 37690510 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

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Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic has strained health systems globally, with governments imposing strict distancing and movement restrictions. Little is known about the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on sexual and reproductive health (SRH). This study examined perceived effects of COVID-19 on SRH service provision and use in the Asia-Pacific region. We conducted a qualitative study using semi-structured interviews with 28 purposively sampled SRH experts in 12 Asia-Pacific countries (e.g. United Nations, international and national non-governmental organisations, ministries of health, academia) between November 2020 and January 2021. We analysed data using the six-stage thematic analysis approach proposed by Braun and Clarke (2019). Interviewees reported that COVID-19 mitigation measures, such as transport restrictions and those that decreased the availability of personal protective equipment (PPE), reduced SRH service provision and use in most countries. SRH needs related to service barriers and gender-based violence increased. Systemic challenges included fragmented COVID-19 response plans and insufficient communication and collaboration, particularly between public and private sectors. SRH service-delivery challenges included COVID-19 response prioritisation, e.g. SRH staff task-shifting to COVID-19 screening and contact tracing, and lack of necessary supplies and equipment. Innovative SRH delivery responses included door-to-door antenatal care and family planning provision in the Philippines, online platforms for SRH education and outreach in Viet Nam, and increasing SRH service engagement through social media in Myanmar and Indonesia. To ensure continuation of SRH services during health emergencies, governments should earmark human and financial resources and prioritise frontline health-worker safety; work with communities and the private sector; and develop effective risk communications.

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Article Details

Title:
Effects of COVID-19 on sexual and reproductive health services access in the Asia-Pacific region: a qualitative study of expert and policymaker perspectives.

Author(s):
Marzouk M; Lam ST; Durrance-Bagale A; Nagashima-Hayashi M; Neo P; Ung M; Zaseela A; Aribou ZM; Agarwal S; Howard N

Summary:
The COVID-19 pandemic made it hard for people to get healthcare for things like having babies and family planning in countries like the Philippines and Vietnam. Services were limited because of restrictions and safety worries, but some countries found creative ways to help, like using online education and social media. To keep these services going during tough times, governments need to plan better and work with different groups.

Meta:
pubmed id: 37682084 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

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Abstract

Erectile dysfunction (ED) occurs in an increasing number of patients after radical prostatectomy and cystectomy, and the phenotypic modulation of corpus cavernosum smooth muscle cells is closely related to ED.

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Article Details

Title:
Effects of endoplasmic reticulum stress on erectile function in rats with cavernous nerve injury.

Author(s):
Guo S; Zhao D; Zang Z; Shao D; Zhang K; Fu Q

Summary:
More people are having trouble with erectile dysfunction (ED) after surgeries like radical prostatectomy and cystectomy. This problem is connected to changes in certain muscle cells in the body.

Meta:
pubmed id: 37674767 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

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Abstract

Around 40% of people living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) in Sweden are women. However, little is known about their experiences, particularly those related to sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR). This study aims to explore perceptions and experiences of SRHR among women living with HIV (LWH). Twelve interviews were conducted with women LWH from September to October 2019 and analysed using thematic analysis. The central theme describing participants' experiences of social relationships, intimate encounters and reproductive life, "Discrimination is harder to live with than the disease itself", is based on three themes that contain subthemes. Theme 1 describes how participants reconsider and reorient their sexual and reproductive life after diagnosis. Theme 2 highlights how (mis)perceptions of HIV affect sexual and reproductive life and lead to abusive treatment and internalisation. Theme 3 describes a paradoxical shift of responsibilities where participants experience being compelled to take greater responsibility in some situations and stripped of the right to decide in others. This study suggests that despite notable progress in HIV treatment, stigma and discrimination stemming from outdated beliefs and (mis)conceptions, ambiguous policies and guidelines, and unequal access to information affect SRHR experiences of women LWH more than the virus itself. The results emphasise the need to: update knowledge within healthcare settings and among the public; clarify ambiguous legislations and guidelines; ensure equal access to information to enable all women LWH to take informed decisions, make fully informed choices and realise their SRHR; and consider the diversity of women LWH and enable shared decision-making.

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Article Details

Title:
"Discrimination is harder to live with than the disease": an interview study of the perceptions and experiences of sexual and reproductive health and rights among women living with HIV in Sweden.

Author(s):
Nkulu-Kalengayi FK; Hurtig AK; Linander I

Summary:
The study talks about women in Sweden living with HIV and how it affects their lives. It found that these women face more problems from how people treat them than from the disease itself. The research suggests that it is important to change old beliefs and make sure everyone has the right information so these women can make the best choices for themselves.

Meta:
pubmed id: 37671828 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

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Abstract

Chronic pain can occur in the vulva, one of the primary pleasure centers of the body; however, the associations between pleasurable vulvar experiences and chronic vulvar pain have not yet been explored.

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Article Details

Title:
Pleasure despite pain: Associations between experiences of vulvar pleasure, vulvar pain, and sexual function in patients with chronic vulvar pain conditions.

Author(s):
Mautz TT; Mulroy ME; Krapf JM; Goldstein AT; Pukall CF

Summary:
The study looks at how pain can happen in the vulva, a part of the body that usually feels good. It wants to find out if feeling pain there is connected to feeling good in the same area but hasn't explored this yet.

Meta:
pubmed id: 37671069 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

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Abstract

Access to syphilis testing and treatment is frequently limited for men who have sex with men (MSM). A two-armed randomised controlled trial compared feasibility and costs of facility-based syphilis testing with self-testing among MSM in Zimbabwe.

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Article Details

Title:
Feasibility and economic costs of syphilis self-testing to expand test uptake among gay, bisexual and transgender men: results from a randomised controlled trial in Zimbabwe.

Author(s):
Nhamo D; Mangenah C; Chapwanya G; Mamvuto T; Mahaka I; Sri-Pathmanathan C; Ferrand RA; Kranzer K; Terris-Prestholt F; Marks M; Tucker JD

Summary:
Researchers wanted to see if it was easier and cheaper for men in Zimbabwe, who have sex with men, to test themselves for syphilis at home or go to a clinic. They did a study to compare the two ways of testing.

Meta:
pubmed id: 37666490 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

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Abstract

Narrating illness experiences in a culturally acceptable manner is essential for retaining quality of life after the disruptive event of being diagnosed for prostate cancer. Psychological pressures caused by treatment side-effects such as erectile dysfunction require reinterpretation of the meanings and impacts of these side-effects on masculinity. This helps maintain coherence in men's lives. We studied how men employ culturally available discursive strategies (compensation, redefinition, recontextualisation, and normalisation) in reconstructing masculinity and sexuality. Our data consists of 22 interviews of heterosexual Finnish prostate cancer patients who had undergone surgery. The aim was to analyse the ways in which various life situations and social relations shaped and limited the use of these strategies. Discourse analysis revealed that older age, a supportive spouse, children, supportive male friends, and good health - were key elements men used in reconstructing a coherent new self-image and conception of life following cancer treatment. Men with sexually active male friends, men without families, younger men and men with new intimate relationships struggled to develop a new version of their masculinity. Being able to effectively utilise certain aspects of one's life situation in re-constructing masculinity is important in maintaining quality of life despite troublesome treatment side-effects.

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Article Details

Title:
Prostate cancer-related sexual dysfunction - the significance of social relations in men's reconstructions of masculinity.

Author(s):
Talvitie AM; Ojala H; Tammela T; Pietilä I

Summary:
Talking about being sick in a way that fits with a person's culture is important for feeling better after finding out you have prostate cancer. The study looked at how men use different ways to think about their manhood and life after they have had treatment. Things like being older, having a supportive family, and having good health helped men feel better about themselves, while younger men or those with new relationships found it harder.

Meta:
pubmed id: 37665659 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

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Abstract

Penile fractures can lead to many functional complications, especially erectile dysfunction (ED). Few studies have evaluated the factors that predict late complications of an immediately repaired penile fracture.

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Article Details

Title:
Immediately repaired penile fractures: age is the only predictor of postoperative long-term functional outcomes.

Author(s):
Avci IE; Yilmaz H; Cinar NB; Akdas EM; Teke K; Culha MM

Summary:
Penile fractures can cause problems like not being able to get an erection. Not many studies have looked into what might cause these problems after a broken penis is fixed right away.

Meta:
pubmed id: 37663046 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

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Abstract

Physical activity during pregnancy is beneficial to maternal and fetal health, but most pregnant women do not achieve the recommended level of physical activity. To investigate how antenatal care can promote physical activity during pregnancy, this study explores experiences of physical activity counselling from the perspectives of pregnant women and antenatal care providers.

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Article Details

Title:
Counselling on physical activity in Danish antenatal care: A qualitative study of experiences from both the pregnant woman's and the care provider's perspective.

Author(s):
Brændstrup N; Roland CB; de Place Knudsen S; Bendix JM; Clausen TD; Molsted S; Stallknecht B; Løkkegaard E; Jespersen AP

Summary:
Many pregnant women do not get enough exercise, which is good for moms and babies. This study looks at how doctors can help pregnant women exercise more by talking to both the women and the doctors to learn more.

Meta:
pubmed id: 37660544 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

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Abstract

As changes to Childbirth and Parenting Education (CBPE) classes during the COVID-19 pandemic remain unexplored in Australia, our objective was to understand how changes to CBPE in Australia during the COVID-19 pandemic impacted on women's birth and postnatal experiences.

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Article Details

Title:
Women's experiences of changes to childbirth and parenting education in Australia during the COVID-19 pandemic: The birth in the time of COVID-19 (BITTOC) study.

Author(s):
Levett KM; Sutcliffe KL; Keedle H; Dahlen H

Summary:
The research aimed to find out how changes in childbirth and parenting classes during the COVID-19 pandemic in Australia affected women's experiences with giving birth and taking care of their babies afterward.

Meta:
pubmed id: 37659213 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

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Abstract

Research from several high-income countries links early menarche with an increased risk for sexual violence. However, the role of early menarche in adolescent girls' and young women's sexual violence risk in sub-Saharan Africa, where sexual violence rates are high, is not well understood. The current study explores the association between early menarche and sexual violence in Ghana with secondary analysis of data collected from 700 adolescent girls and young women followed over three years. Logistic regressions were used to assess the cross-sectional association between early menarche and sexual violence. Generalised estimating equations were used to assess whether the association between early menarche and sexual violence persisted over time. Inverse odds weighting was used to test potential mediators of the association between early menarche and sexual violence. Sexual violence was fairly common in the study sample, with 27% reporting having experienced sexual violence at baseline, and approximately 50% at year three. Early menarche was associated with 72% greater odds of having experienced sexual violence at baseline (95% confidence interval: 1.01-2.93). However, the odds ratio attenuated and lost significance over the three-year study period, with a lower risk of sexual violence among girls with early menarche at year three. Neither child marriage nor early sexual initiation significantly mediated the association between early menarche and sexual violence. The findings suggest that early-maturing girls may be particularly vulnerable to sexual violence in early adolescence, thus necessitating prevention interventions around the time of menarche to reduce the risk for sexual violence.

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Article Details

Title:
Exploring the effect of early menarche on sexual violence among adolescent girls and young women in southeastern Ghana: a longitudinal mediation analysis.

Author(s):
Ibitoye M; Sommer M; Davidson LL; Sandfort TGM

Summary:
The study looked at girls in Ghana and found that those who started their periods early were more likely to face sexual violence. At first, 27% of the girls had experienced sexual violence, and this number grew to about 50% by three years later. The researchers think it's important to help protect girls during this time to keep them safe.

Meta:
pubmed id: 37656485 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

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Abstract

The longer ongoing benefits of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) non-pharmaceutical interventions (NPIs) for sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) in China are still unclear. We aimed to explore the changes in five STDs (AIDS, hepatitis B, hepatitis C, gonorrhoea, and syphilis) before, during, and after the COVID-19 pandemic in mainland China, from 2010 to 2021.

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Article Details

Title:
A long trend of sexually transmitted diseases before and after the COVID-19 pandemic in China (2010-21).

Author(s):
Xu A; Zuo Z; Yang C; Ye F; Wang M; Wu J; Tao C; Xun Y; Li Z; Liu S; Huang J

Summary:
Scientists studied five diseases, including AIDS and hepatitis, in China from 2010 to 2021 to see how COVID-19 rules might have changed them. They wanted to know if the measures to stop COVID-19 helped reduce these other diseases too.

Meta:
pubmed id: 37649382 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

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Abstract

To measure the effectiveness of chlamydia control strategies, we must estimate infection incidence over time. Available data, including survey-based infection prevalence and case reports, have limitations as proxies for infection incidence. We therefore developed a novel method for estimating chlamydial incidence.

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Article Details

Title:
Using infection prevalence, seroprevalence and case report data to estimate chlamydial infection incidence.

Author(s):
Clay PA; Pollock ED; Copen CE; Anyalechi EG; Danavall DC; Hong J; Khosropour CM; Galloway E; Spicknall IH

Summary:
Scientists created a new way to figure out how often people get chlamydia over time because the old ways weren't very good. They hope this will help them see if their plans to stop chlamydia are working.

Meta:
pubmed id: 37648446 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

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Abstract

Several researchers have questioned the reliability of pornography research's findings. Following a recent call to use more reliable data sources, we conducted two analyses to investigate patterns and predictors of online pornography use (OPU). Our analyses were based on data from a large-scale German online web tracking panel (N = 3018) gathered from June 2018 to June 2019. The study we present here has two parts: In the first part, we looked at group differences (gender and age) in tracked OPU. Overall, this part's results confirm questionnaire-based research findings regarding sex and age differences. In the second part of our study, we combined the web tracking data with data from an online survey which was answered by a subset of the tracking participants (n = 1315) to assess the relevance of various predictors of OPU that have been identified in previous research. Again, our results mostly echoed previous findings based on self-reports. Online pornography was used more by males and younger individuals, while relationship status, sexist attitudes, and social dominance orientation were not associated with OPU. However, we did find differences in OPU between members of different religious communities. Our study confirms some critical findings on OPU from previous questionnaire-based research while extending existing research by providing a more fine-grained analysis of usage patterns based on web tracking data.

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Article Details

Title:
A Re-evaluation of Online Pornography Use in Germany: A Combination of Web Tracking and Survey Data Analysis.

Author(s):
von Andrian-Werburg MTP; Siegers P; Breuer J

Summary:
This study looked into how people use online pornography using data from Germany. It found that younger people and men use it more than others. The study also found differences based on religion but not on attitudes like sexism or being dominant.

Meta:
pubmed id: 37644357 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

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Abstract

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) among youth aged 12 to 24 years have doubled in the last 13 years, accounting for 50% of STIs nationally. We need to identify predictors of STI among youth in urban HIV epicenters.

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Article Details

Title:
Using Machine Learning to Identify Predictors of Sexually Transmitted Infections Over Time Among Young People Living With or at Risk for HIV Who Participated in ATN Protocols 147, 148, and 149.

Author(s):
Comulada WS; Rotheram-Borus MJ; Arnold EM; Norwood P; Lee SJ; Ocasio MA; Flynn R; Nielsen-Saines K; Bolan R; Klausner JD; Swendeman D

Summary:
The number of young people with sexually transmitted infections (STIs) has gone up a lot in the past 13 years, and they make up half of all STIs in the country. We need to find out what causes STIs in young people living in cities with a lot of HIV cases.

Meta:
pubmed id: 37643402 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

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Abstract

This study examined parent-child similarities in homophobic attitudes and observed parental discomfort with coming-out vignettes in interactions with their adolescent children (14-18 years old). Based on gender schema theory and the family process model we expected parent-child similarities in homophobic attitudes to be stronger in same-gender dyads. Further, we expected that observed parental discomfort with coming-out vignettes would occur and is stronger when the gender of the parent, child, and character in the vignette match. We used questionnaires and observation data from 199 White Dutch families in the Netherlands. Our results showed that parents' homophobic attitudes were associated with their children's homophobic attitudes. For same-sex kissing and (imagining) having a gay son, these associations were stronger between parents and children of the same gender. Further, parental discomfort with coming-out vignettes occurred and was stronger when parents and children had the same gender, regardless of the gender of the vignette character. In conclusion, policies aiming at gay and lesbian inclusion should not be limited to accepting gay/lesbian identities, but also pay attention to the acceptance of same-sex intimacy expressions, having gay or lesbian family members, and normalizing discussions about gay/lesbian lives.

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Article Details

Title:
Same-Sex Kissing and Having a Gay or Lesbian Child: A Bridge Too Far? Parent-Child Similarities in Homophobic Attitudes and Observed Parental Discomfort.

Author(s):
van de Rozenberg TM; Kroes ADA; van der Pol LD; Groeneveld MG; Mesman J

Summary:
The study looked at how similar parents and children's attitudes are about being gay. It found that parents and kids have more similar attitudes when they are the same gender. Also, parents felt uncomfortable talking about someone coming out as gay, especially when the parent and child are the same gender.

Meta:
pubmed id: 37643385 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

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Abstract

Like all young people (YP), those who are gender and sexuality diverse (GSD) spend their youth exploring and discovering their identities; but unlike their peers, they must consider whether, how, and when to disclose their GSD identity to others in a dynamic process of visibility management (VM). At school, GSD YP actively test social reactions, interpret attitudes, and assess safety, ultimately seeking belonging as their authentic selves. Our systematic review explored findings from 16 qualitative studies capturing GSD YPs experiences of managing visibility in schools internationally. Data were thematically synthesized, and seven themes were constructed. The process of visibility management is fluid, a negotiation with social norms that GSD YP's very existence transgresses. YP search for, and through activism actively shape, accepting environments in which they can safely be their authentic selves. GSD YP are actively asking school staff for help in creating open communities where all YP can find a place to belong, to fight to be visible. We offer some suggestions for how we might begin.

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Article Details

Title:
"If You're Not Yourself, Who are You Going to be?" an Exploration of Gender and Sexuality Diverse Pupils Experiences of Visibility Management in School: A Systematic Literature Review.

Author(s):
Timney C; Wright S; Sargeant C

Summary:
The study looked at how young people who are gender and sexuality diverse try to be themselves at school while dealing with how to share their identity. They want to find safe and accepting places at school, and they hope teachers can help make schools more open and welcoming for everyone.

Meta:
pubmed id: 37643381 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

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Abstract

Nonsuicidal self-injury (NSSI) is a suggested diagnosis recognized by DSM-5 as in need of further research. Recent studies conclude that sex as self-injury (SASI) and NSSI share similar functions, such as being used as emotional regulation. SASI has been associated with earlier sexual abuse, but the understanding of the association between sexual violence and SASI is still limited. The aim of this study was to further investigate the connection between sexual violence and the experience of SASI. How could SASI be related to sexual violence? The study used a qualitative design and was based on an anonymous questionnaire published on the websites of Swedish NGOs, providing help and support to women and youths, such as those in women's shelters. In total, 139 informants with a mean age of 27.9 years (range 15-64 years) were included in the study. Three main themes were found: (1) Normalization of sexual violence and a shift in boundaries could be seen as consequences of earlier experiences of sexual violence leading to SASI; (2) SASI could escalate into sexual violence through increased need of emotional regulation, increased risk-taking, and risk of victimization; (3) SASI could be used to regain control of re-experiences, the body, sexuality, and shame after sexual abuse. In conclusion, a complex connection was identified whereby SASI could escalate into sexual violence, and earlier experiences of sexual violence could lead to SASI in a vicious loop. Hence, SASI should be seen as a risk factor for further victimization and sexual abuse.

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Article Details

Title:
The Connection Between Sex as Self-Injury and Sexual Violence.

Author(s):
Hedén L; Jonsson LS; Fredlund C

Summary:
Some people hurt themselves without wanting to die, and others might use sex in a harmful way for similar reasons, like trying to handle emotions. This study looked at how experiences of sexual violence might be connected to using sex in a harmful way. They found that people might use sex in this way because of past abuse, and it could lead to more dangerous situations.

Meta:
pubmed id: 37640887 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

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Abstract

The Sexual Orientation Microaggression Inventory (SOMI) has been used to measure sexual orientation-based microaggression experiences. However, at 19 items, the SOMI may be difficult to fit into survey batteries where microaggressions are not the primary predictor or the time researchers have with each participant is very limited.

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Article Details

Title:
The Sexual Orientation Microaggression Inventory Short Form (SOMI-SF): Validation in Three Samples of Racially/Ethnically Diverse Sexual Minority Youth.

Author(s):
Swann G; Bettin E; Ryan DT; Clifford A; Newcomb ME; Whitton SW; Mustanski B

Summary:
The Sexual Orientation Microaggression Inventory (SOMI) is a tool to see how people feel about small, hurtful comments about their sexual orientation. But since it has 19 questions, it might be too long for some surveys or when there isn't much time to ask people questions.

Meta:
pubmed id: 37637938 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

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Abstract

To examine rehabilitation professionals' training and education, attitudes, beliefs or misconceptions, and assessment of issues related to sexuality in individuals with Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) and their romantic partners. 318 healthcare professionals from Latin America (LA) who worked with individuals with SCI completed an online survey. 99.0% affirmed that sexuality is an issue that should be addressed during the rehabilitation of people with SCI. 86.0% reported being asked questions about sexuality after SCI by their patients and/or their partners, but only 33.2% of the professionals affirmed that it was very likely for them to initiate a conversation about the topic. Only 35.4% reported discussing sexuality issues with patients and their partners as a regular practice; further, 61.5% of the sample reported not being prepared at a scientific, therapeutic, and/or educational level to be able to advise people with SCI in the area of sexuality. 95.9% indicated they would be interested in attending courses, seminars, or conferences tailored to the topic of sexuality after SCI. Participants agreed nearly unanimously (96.8%) that it would be easier to discuss sexuality with people with SCI and their partners if they had more training on this topic, which they believed should have been received during their undergraduate (63.5%) and advanced (34.9%) studies. Findings provide insight into the way sexuality is addressed and attended to in the field of rehabilitation in LA and inform initiatives to improve the provision of care in the realm of sexuality for individuals after SCI.

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Article Details

Title:
A Survey of Latin American Rehabilitation Professionals on Addressing Sexuality-Related Concerns After Spinal Cord Injury.

Author(s):
Longoni Di Giusto M; Ertl MM; Ramos-Usuga D; Carballea D; Degano M; Perrin PB; Arango-Lasprilla JC

Summary:
Many healthcare workers in Latin America help people with spinal cord injuries but are not trained well enough to talk about sexuality. Most professionals think talking about sexuality is important, and they want more training to feel prepared.

Meta:
pubmed id: 37637469 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

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Abstract

Emerging adults face a disproportionate burden of unintended pregnancies and sexually transmitted diseases, especially in the southern United States. This study investigates how multiple dimensions of current religiosity as well as religious upbringing influence the sexual behaviors, including contraceptive usage, of individuals 18-25 years old (n=211) in the South. Based on regression analyses, results suggest that emerging adults with higher levels of current religiosity are more likely to remain abstinent, but less likely to use pregnancy prevention methods, such as birth controls pills and long-acting reversible contraceptives. Having a religious upbringing is also associated with lower contraceptive usage. Through the assessment of multiple dimensions of religiosity and various sexual behaviors, this study presents a nuanced picture of the complex associations between religion and sexual health, specifically among emerging adults in the southern United States.

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Article Details

Title:
The Impact of Religious Participation and Religious Upbringing on the Sexual Behavior of Emerging Adults in the Southern United States.

Author(s):
Piper KN; Lambert DN; Fuller TJ

Summary:
The study looked at how being religious affects young adults in the southern U.S. and their choices about sex and birth control. It found that those who are more religious are less likely to use birth control but are more likely to not have sex.

Meta:
pubmed id: 37637181 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

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Abstract

Inflammation is a key risk factor for heart disease and has also been linked to erectile dysfunction (ED). Sildenafil is a phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitor with a strong antioxidant effect. Interleukin (IL)-18 is a proinflammatory factor. Excessive production and release of IL-18 disrupt the balance between IL-18 and IL-18 binding proteins in certain inflammatory diseases, leading to the occurrence of pathological inflammation.

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Article Details

Title:
Exploring the application of sildenafil for high-fat diet-induced erectile dysfunction based on interleukin-18-mediated NLRP3/Caspase-1 signaling pathway.

Author(s):
Zhu B; Niu Y; Niu L; Zhang X; Liu F

Summary:
Inflammation can cause heart problems and affect how some body functions work. A medicine called Sildenafil can help because it fights against harmful reactions in the body. Too much of a substance called IL-18 can cause inflammation, which is not good for you.

Meta:
pubmed id: 37636019 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

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Abstract

Medically assisted reproduction is a vulnerable time for couples' sexual health. Believing that sexual challenges can be worked through (i.e., sexual growth beliefs) or that these challenges indicate incompatibility (i.e., sexual destiny beliefs) may be related to dyadic coping-the strategies couples use to cope-with the physical and psychological stressors of medically assisted reproduction.

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Article Details

Title:
Sexual growth and destiny beliefs: Longitudinal associations with dyadic coping among couples seeking medically assisted reproduction.

Author(s):
Rossi MA; Péloquin K; Allsop DB; El Amiri S; Bouzayen R; Brassard A; Bergeron S; Rosen NO

Summary:
Couples going through medical help to have a baby might face problems with their romantic relationship. If they think they can work through these challenges together or believe that problems show they aren't a good match, it can affect how they handle stress together during this time.

Meta:
pubmed id: 37632412 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

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Abstract

In mid-2022, a global mpox (formerly 'monkeypox') outbreak affecting predominantly gay and bisexual men emerged in non-endemic countries. Australia had never previously recorded mpox cases and there was no prior research on knowledge or attitudes to mpox among gay and bisexual men across Australia.

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Article Details

Title:
Mpox (monkeypox) knowledge, concern, willingness to change behaviour, and seek vaccination: results of a national cross-sectional survey.

Author(s):
MacGibbon J; Cornelisse VJ; Smith AKJ; Broady TR; Hammoud MA; Bavinton BR; Heath-Paynter D; Vaughan M; Wright EJ; Holt M

Summary:
In 2022, there was an mpox outbreak mostly affecting gay and bisexual men in countries where the disease wasn't common before. Australia had never had mpox cases before, and there wasn't any research about what gay and bisexual men in Australia knew or thought about mpox.

Meta:
pubmed id: 37611539 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

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Abstract

The potential of HIV self-testing (HIVST) to cause harm is a concern hindering widespread implementation. The aim of this paper is to understand the relationship between HIVST and harm in SELPHI (An HIV f-testing ublic ealth ntervention), the largest randomised trial of HIVST in a high-income country to date.

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Article Details

Title:
Understanding experiences of potential harm among MSM (cis and trans) using HIV self-testing in the SELPHI randomised controlled trial in England and Wales: a mixed-methods study.

Author(s):
Witzel TC; Nicholls EJ; McCabe L; Weatherburn P; McCormack S; Bonell C; Gafos M; Lampe FC; Speakman A; Dunn D; Ward D; Phillips AN; Pebody R; Gabriel MM; Collaco-Moraes Y; Rodger AJ; Burns FM

Summary:
The paper talks about worries that testing for HIV by yourself might be harmful. It looks at how testing yourself might cause harm in a big study called SELPHI, which is the biggest test of self-testing for HIV in rich countries.

Meta:
pubmed id: 37607814 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

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Abstract

Missed sexual healthcare appointments lead to inefficiencies and wasted resources, longer waiting times and poorer outcomes. The aim of this research was to identify factors influencing non-attendance at sexual healthcare appointments and to make recommendations for interventions.

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Article Details

Title:
Factors influencing non-attendance at sexual healthcare appointments in the UK: a qualitative study.

Author(s):
Heath G; Clarke R; Ross J; Farrow C

Summary:
When people miss their sexual healthcare appointments, it causes problems like wasted time and longer waits. This research looked into why some people don’t show up for their appointments and suggested ways to help fix this issue.

Meta:
pubmed id: 37604779 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

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Abstract

The Undetectable=Untransmittable (U=U) message has been promoted since it was demonstrated that viral suppression through HIV treatment prevents sexual transmission between serodiscordant partners (HIV treatment as prevention). Our study assessed familiarity with, perceived accuracy of, and willingness to rely on U=U in a national sample of gay and bisexual men in Australia.

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Article Details

Title:
: Familiarity with, perceived accuracy of, and willingness to rely on Undetectable=Untransmittable (U=U) among gay and bisexual men in Australia: results of a national cross-sectional survey.

Author(s):
MacGibbon J; Bavinton BR; Broady TR; Ellard J; Murphy D; Calabrese SK; Kalwicz DA; Heath-Paynter D; Molyneux A; Power C; Heslop A; de Wit J; Holt M

Summary:
The study looked at how well gay and bisexual men in Australia know and trust the message "Undetectable=Untransmittable" (U=U), which says that people with HIV can't spread it if their virus is undetectable because of treatment. Researchers wanted to see how many people were familiar with this idea and if they believed and felt safe relying on it.

Meta:
pubmed id: 37603535 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

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Abstract

HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is key to HIV transmission elimination but implementation is challenging and under-researched. We undertook a process evaluation of the first 2years of a national PrEP program to explore barriers and facilitators to implementation and to develop recommendations to improve implementation, focusing on PrEP uptake and initiation.

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Article Details

Title:
Improving HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) uptake and initiation: process evaluation and recommendation development from a national PrEP program.

Author(s):
Estcourt CS; MacDonald J; Saunders J; Nandwani R; Young I; Frankis J; Clutterbuck D; Steedman N; McDaid L; Dalrymple J; Flowers P

Summary:
The research looked at how well a program to stop HIV with medicine before exposure is working. They found problems and helpful things about the program, and they gave ideas on how to make the program better so more people start using it.

Meta:
pubmed id: 37603534 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

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Abstract

This study examined the impact of a pathway between a sexual assault service and a public sexual health service developed to improve rates of post-sexual assault medical follow-up. Follow-up attendances improved in the first 12months of the pathway (2014) compared with attendances in 2013 (17.8%vs 9.6%, P =0.01). Factors independently associated with attendance at follow-up were being prescribed HIV post-exposure prophylaxis and knowing the assailant. Those with physical injuries were less likely to attend. The prevalence of sexually transmissible infections in this cohort, 8% at the acute presentation and 5% at follow-up, suggests a need for alternatives to clinic-based follow-up.

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Article Details

Title:
The challenge of providing medical follow-up for sexual assault victims: can we predict who will attend? A retrospective cross-sectional study.

Author(s):
Healey LM; Hutchinson JL; Pfeiffer MN; Garton L; Hatten B; Dobbie M; Simpson L; Templeton DJ

Summary:
The study looked at how a new plan helped people return for medical follow-ups after sexual assault. More people came back for check-ups, especially if they knew the person who hurt them or were given certain medicine. People with injuries didn't come back as much, and some still got infections, so other follow-up ways might be needed.

Meta:
pubmed id: 37599505 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

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Abstract

Australia, like many high-income countries, is experiencing a resurgence of infectious syphilis in pregnancy and congenital syphilis. Evaluations of public health notifications and clinical records suggest that healthcare systems may not be providing optimal care to women and their neonates. This study aims to explore the barriers to optimal management of syphilis in pregnancy and congenital syphilis to identify key areas for improvement.

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Article Details

Title:
Barriers to optimal management of syphilis in pregnancy and congenital syphilis in south-east Queensland: a qualitative investigation.

Author(s):
Fowler JA; Warzywoda S; Nourse C; Wu M; Britton S; Rowling D; Griffin P; Lazarou M; Hamilton Z; Dean JA

Summary:
Australia is seeing more cases of syphilis, a sickness, in pregnant women and their babies. The study wants to find out why health systems aren't giving the best care and how they can do better.

Meta:
pubmed id: 37599092 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

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Abstract

The time between self-assessed first symptoms and clinical confirmation of labour onset is marked by uncertainty, particularly for primiparas. Accordingly, primiparas often seek professional care to confirm their perceptions of labour onset. This paper describes the transition into early labour among primiparas considering their level of certainty in labour onset and their perception of labour onset symptoms prior to birth.

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Article Details

Title:
Describing the transition from late pregnancy into early labour - A prospective cohort study.

Author(s):
Gehling H; Edmonds JK; Zinsser LA; Gross MM

Summary:
This paper talks about how first-time moms (primiparas) often feel unsure about when they are really in labor because it's hard to tell when it starts. Many first-time moms check with doctors or nurses to make sure they are actually going into labor.

Meta:
pubmed id: 37597272 Indexed on February 9th, 2025