Article Feed - This Week in Sexual Health

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Abstract

Although the use of the Web has brought major advances in every step of the research process, this also comes with several methodological challenges.

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Title:
Web based research in sexual medicine: a position statement of the European Society for Sexual Medicine.

Author(s):
Kirana PS; Gudeloglu A; Sansone A; Sokolakis I

Summary:
The Web helps a lot with research, making things easier and faster, but it also has some tricky problems to solve.

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pubmed id: 37426312 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

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Abstract

An understanding of sexual (risk) behavior is necessary to successfully develop prevention and care strategies for the sexually transmitted infections (STI) high-risk group of male sex workers who have sex with men (MSW-MSM). However, limited scientific knowledge is available on sexual (risk) behavior of (home-based) MSW-MSM. This study aimed to gain an understanding of sexual (risk) behavior, factors influencing sexual (risk) behavior, and applied risk-reduction strategies of home-based MSW-MSM. For this qualitative study, semi-structured individual interviews were conducted with 20 home-based MSW-MSM in the Netherlands. The interviews' recordings were transcribed verbatim and thematically analyzed with Atlas.ti 8. Condom use was reported to be high during anal sex, but low during oral sex and mostly determined by STI risk perception, trust in clients, and sexual pleasure. Many experienced condom failure, while few knew what to do after condom failure and were aware of post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP). Many MSW-MSM had chemsex in the past 6 months in order to loosen up and enhance sexual pleasure. Some were not vaccinated against hepatitis B virus (HBV), mainly due to the lack of information and awareness of HBV vaccination and low risk perception of HBV. The results of this study can be used to tailor future STI/HIV risk-reduction strategies for home-based MSW-MSM and to increase awareness and uptake of available STI/HIV prevention strategies such as P(r)EP and HBV vaccination.

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Title:
Sexual (Risk) Behavior and Risk-Reduction Strategies of Home-Based Male Sex Workers Who Have Sex with Men (MSW-MSM) in The Netherlands: A Qualitative Study.

Author(s):
Peters CMM; Evers YJ; Dukers-Muijrers NHTM; Hoebe CJPA

Summary:
This study looked at the sexual behavior of male sex workers in the Netherlands who work from home and have male clients. Researchers found that while they often use condoms for anal sex, they don't as much for oral sex, mainly due to trust and pleasure. The study suggests ways to help them use condoms better and to raise awareness about health protections like certain medicines and vaccines.

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pubmed id: 37420090 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

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Abstract

Research regarding how people choose their long-term romantic partners is extensive, but the understanding of the psychological processes behind these choices, and predicting who people choose, is elusive. This review attempts to examine potential reasons for this elusive nature by first outlining the current state of the literature and then highlighting issues within the current paradigm. First among these issues is a focus on singular perspectives and little attempt to integrate these perspectives with others. Second, many studies focus on increasingly complex designs to explore the predictive utility of trait preferences, attempts which have had only limited success. Third, novel findings appear to be unintegrated with established findings, leaving the potential combination of these ideas unrealized. Finally, long-term romantic partner selection is a complex psychological phenomenon, but current theory and research methodologies are not sufficiently addressing this complexity. This review concludes with suggestions for future research direction, including a focus on the psychology behind the partner selection process and the potential of qualitative enquiry to reveal novel pathways behind these psychological processes. There is a need for an integrative framework that permits the coexistence of established and novel ideas, and multiple perspectives, from both current and future research paradigms.

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Title:
A Critical Review of the Literature Regarding the Selection of Long-Term Romantic Partners.

Author(s):
Devenport S; Davis-McCabe C; Winter S

Summary:
This paper talks about how people pick romantic partners and why it's hard to understand. It says that different studies don't often work together, and we need to combine old and new ideas to learn more. The paper suggests using different research methods to better explain how people choose partners.

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pubmed id: 37420089 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

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Abstract

In this paper, we present the person-based approach to measuring implicit attitudes toward gay men and lesbian women-this approach uses face stimuli rather than traditionally used symbols, and creates salient social categories through contextual variation techniques. Across 5 experiments using the Go/No Go Association Task ( = 364), we present evidence that the person-based approach can disentangle implicit gender-based attitudes from implicit sexuality-based attitudes, that these attitudes vary as a function of participant gender and sexuality, and that they are different to attitudes elicited by typically used stimuli. We demonstrate that implicit person-based attitudes toward straight and gay people are similar and are consistent with the literature (i.e. attitudes toward [lesbian] women are more positive than attitudes toward [gay] men). However, we reveal a reversed pattern of findings for person-based implicit attitudes (i.e. attitudes toward gay men are more positive than attitudes toward lesbian women). These findings suggest that the person-based approach uniquely captures nuanced implicit attitudes toward gay men and lesbians, raising important questions regarding previous findings.

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Article Details

Title:
Disentangling Gender-Based Attitudes from Sexuality-Based Attitude: The Person-Based Approach to Measuring Implicit Attitudes Toward Gay Men and Lesbian Women.

Author(s):
Anderson JR; de la Piedad Garcia X; Falomir-Pichastor JM; Kaufmann LM

Summary:
The researchers studied how people feel about gay men and lesbian women using pictures of faces instead of symbols. They found that people think differently about gay men and lesbian women than what some other studies showed. The study showed using faces gave more detailed results.

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pubmed id: 37417767 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

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Abstract

Intraminority gay community stress theory posits that social stressors within sexual minority communities of men may be risk factors for mental health problems in gay and bisexual men. The recently developed 20-item Gay Community Stress Scale (GCSS) is a valid and reliable measure of gay community stress, but was not yet validated in the Netherlands. This study developed a Dutch-translated version of the GCSS and validated this scale in sexual minority men and sexual minority women, as it was hypothesized that sexual minority women may also experience intraminority stress. Exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses were subsequently performed in independent samples of men and women, and produced a 16-item GCSS for men and a 12-item GCSS for women. The four-factor structure of the original GCSS was replicated in men and women, and encouraging support for discriminant and concurrent validity of the GCSS was found in both men and women. The total scale and subscales were internally consistent in men (α and ω ≥ .87) and in women (α and ω ≥ .78). The Dutch-translated GCSS seems to offer a valid and reliable way to assess intraminority stress in Dutch-speaking sexual minority men and sexual minority women, although further validation is warranted.

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Article Details

Title:
Gay Community Stress in Sexual Minority Men and Women: A Validation Study in the Netherlands.

Author(s):
Assink M; Bos HMW

Summary:
Researchers studied stress in gay communities and made a Dutch version of a test to measure it. They found the test worked well for both men and women who are sexual minorities in the Netherlands. The test can help understand how stress affects these groups, but more research is needed.

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pubmed id: 37417742 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

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Abstract

United Kingdom (UK) pharmacy curricula have previously been shown to be hetero- and cis-normative. A possible reason may be that educators hold binary beliefs and attitudes toward sexuality and gender norms, and that these are manifest in teaching practice and discourse. The purpose of this study is to investigate these attitudes and beliefs. A cross-sectional survey using the 16-item heteronormative attitudes and beliefs scale (HABS) was distributed to educators at UK universities teaching on undergraduate Master of Pharmacy degree programs, with 123 surveys returned. Total HABS scores and subscales measuring normative beliefs (NB) and essential sex and gender (ESG) were calculated with non-parametric statistics comparing scores based on demographic and contextual characteristics of the sample. The mean total HABS score was 40.06, for NB it was 16.46 and ESG it was 23.60 indicating moderate-low normative beliefs and attitudes. Two demographic categories reached statistical significance: gender ( = .049 total HABS score) and sexuality ( = < .001 total HABS score, = .008NB subscore and = < .001 ESG subscore) ( < .05) indicating that female and queer identifying educators have significantly lower heteronormative attitudes and beliefs. Findings indicate that UK pharmacy educators do not hold normative values and beliefs; curricula are influenced by the normative structures within higher education.

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Article Details

Title:
Evaluating Heteronormative Attitudes and Beliefs of United Kingdom Pharmacy Educators.

Author(s):
Mawdsley A; Willis SC

Summary:
The study looked at what pharmacy teachers in the UK think about gender and sexuality. It found that many teachers do not have strict ideas about these topics, but the university system still affects what is taught. Female and queer teachers often have more open views.

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pubmed id: 37417739 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

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Abstract

The World Health Organization's (WHO) global public health mandate includes a focus on expanding access to HIV testing, antiretroviral therapy (ART) and treatment monitoring to improve the clinical management of HIV, achieve sustained viral suppression, and prevent HIV-related incidence, morbidity, and mortality. This article documents key moments in research and WHO policies that have informed how ART is applied within HIV programs, including as a prevention tool with the potential to support efforts to address HIV-related discrimination. For more than 20years, WHO has promoted the benefits of HIV treatment including as part of the approach to prevent the mother-to-child transmission (vertical transmission) of HIV. WHO guidance has followed, and continues to follow, the evolving evidence. In 2023, WHO continues to clarify that there is zero risk of sexual HIV transmission when a person living with HIV has an undetectable viral load and an almost zero or negligible risk of sexual transmission when a person living with HIV has a viral load of ≤1000copies/mL - helping to evolve the focus of community campaigns and health worker training to include a focus on 'virally suppressed' while also continuing to emphasise the ultimate goal of achieving an undetectable viral load. This evolution does two things: first, it strongly reasserts the evidence around there being no chance of transmission if a person has an undetectable viral load; and second, it provides an extremely strong degree of confidence that, similarly, individuals who are virally suppressed will not pass on the virus sexually. WHO is now encouraging positive and clear messaging to highlight that the consistent use of ART prevents onwards HIV transmission.

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Article Details

Title:
Role of viral suppression in HIV treatment and prevention and its potential in addressing harmful laws and discrimination.

Author(s):
Seale A; Baggaley R; Vojnov L; Doherty M

Summary:
The World Health Organization (WHO) helps people get tested and treated for HIV to make sure the virus is under control and not spread to others. WHO has been teaching people for over 20 years that taking medicine correctly can stop the virus from being passed on, even when a mother is having a baby. Now, WHO wants everyone to know that if someone with HIV takes their medicine and their virus level is very low, they won't spread it to others.

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pubmed id: 37407497 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

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Abstract

The background of this paper starts with the history and significance of the author's relationship to the Campaign, U=U; Undetectable equals Untransmissable as an Indigenous woman and well-known advocate living with HIV. The methods used in this paper explored an adaptation of a thriving indigenous Health Framework implemented in New Zealand for over 40years. We anticipate the methods used in this paper along with the U=U Campaign will make the U=U relevant to other Indigenous Peoples. The common threads of the cultures are our creation stories and our rendition of the Health Circle or the Four Pillars. We interviewed and surveyed key community members, family, people living with HIV, and social workers that work in those communities over a period of 6months; 36 people participated. We shared personal stories anecdotally of her experiences. The results were a health model comparison of U=U from a Māori worldview. Each aspect of the Four Pillars or cornerstones of the model is explained from a personal experience perspective, which is inclusive and reflects a process familiar to Indigenous Peoples and worldviews. We are using stories to relay that information from that particular worldview. In conclusion, after much deliberation, discussions with key people, and personal experiences, we can tie the concept of U=U to an intrinsic framework that other Indigenous Peoples and communities can easily interpret.

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Article Details

Title:
U=U: the life force given by the mother's breast.

Author(s):
Tamati RM

Summary:
The paper talks about how an Indigenous woman with HIV used New Zealand’s health methods to help other Indigenous people understand that if you have HIV and it's under control, you can't pass it on to others. They interviewed people and shared stories to connect this idea with Indigenous culture and show it in a way that fits their beliefs and traditions.

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pubmed id: 37394477 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

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Abstract

The clinical knowledge that people living with HIV who maintain an undetectable viral load and therefore cannot transmit HIV sexually, known as Undetectable equals Untransmittable (U=U), has reached a critical mass of adults, but it is relatively silenced within adolescent HIV care and support. We argue that understanding the full range of opportunities enabled by viral suppression, including the elimination of transmission risk, could transform adolescents' understanding of living with HIV, incentivise optimal treatment engagement and support and sustain their positive mental health. However, the reluctance to discuss U=U with adolescents means that we are not providing them with adequate access to the information and tools that would help them to succeed. We need to recognise, value, and invest in the mediating role of building viral load literacy, illustrated by conveying U=U in ways that are meaningful for adolescents, to accelerate viral suppression. Rather than protect, rationing access to information on U=U only increases their vulnerability and risk to poor HIV and mental health outcomes.

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Article Details

Title:
Let's talk about U=U: seizing a valuable opportunity to better support adolescents living with HIV.

Author(s):
Bernays S; Lariat J; Ameyan W; Willis N

Summary:
Some kids with HIV don't learn about U=U, which means if their virus is undetectable, they can't pass it on. Teaching them this could help them stay healthy and feel better. Giving them this information helps them make good choices and prevents health problems.

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pubmed id: 37380170 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

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Abstract

While key barriers to abortion care accessibility have been established, little is known about the experiences of people having abortions in the Netherlands. Stories of individual abortion-seekers can help counteract stereotyping, diminish abortion stigma, and improve accessibility. This study's research question is: What experiences do abortion-seekers in the Netherlands have with abortion care and what new insights can the I-poem method of analysis provide? This qualitative feminist study used transcripts of semi-structured, in-depth interviews with abortion-seekers from previous research to create I-poems. Using a grounded theory method, the I-poems were coded deductively to validate previous findings, and inductively to generate new insights. The I-poems revealed that although abortion-seekers felt autonomous, their decision-making was complicated by doubt concerning their partner's views and/or suitability as a parent, feelings of shame, and a lack of support. The abortion-seekers were often slowed by obstacles in policy and care; waiting caused feelings of fear and panic and routine pre-abortion ultrasounds led to anxiety. They often did not know what to expect from their body or the abortion procedure. I-poems show how autonomous choice in abortion care is socially constructed rather than purely individual. Abortion providers must pay special attention to external factors complicating the decision-making process such as partner discordance (even in stable relationships) and anxiety due to waiting times and routine pre-abortion ultrasound. Future action on normalisation of information provided on all aspects of choosing an abortion is necessary to realise informed choice and reduction of abortion stigma. Abortion is a medical procedure that ends a pregnancy. In some countries, people can easily get an abortion. In others, it is illegal or difficult to access. In the Netherlands, abortion is accessible and legal before 24 weeks of pregnancy and can be performed upon request of the abortion seeker. This policy is often seen as liberal, as it allows people to make their own decisions about their bodies. Still, abortion stigma is present in Dutch society. Stigma around abortion refers to negative attitudes and beliefs that society has towards people who have had abortions or are considering having one.Research by Holten et al looked at how easy it is for abortion seekers in the Netherlands to access abortion services. The study highlighted that people in the Netherlands still face barriers to accessing abortion services. For example: the law and regulations regarding abortions and the fact that people had difficulty in talking about their abortion due to stigma.The abovementioned study gives a broad view on challenges in the accessibility of abortion in the Netherlands, but the individual experiences are not portrayed.The goal of this study is to learn about the personal experiences of abortion-seekers in the Netherlands. It aims to understand what it's like for these people to access abortion services and what we can learn from their individual stories by using a method of analysis called I-poem. I-poems are a type of poem created by the researcher by looking for sentences using the first-person pronoun "I" in interview texts. I poems show the personal experience or point of view of the person interviewed. This type of poem is often used to express emotions or share personal stories or observations.This study used interviews with people who have had abortions to create I-poems. The grounded theory method was used to analyse the I-poems in two ways: confirming what was found in previous studies, and also providing new insights from the data.The study found that the people contemplating having an abortion had a hard time making the decision to have an abortion because they had doubts, were worried about what their partner would think, felt ashamed to talk about it with friends and family, and didn't have enough support. They also faced challenges like having to wait for the abortion because of clinic schedules and laws and getting ultrasounds before the procedure, which made them anxious. It was also found that the people contemplating abortion were unsure of what to expect from the abortion procedure and how their body would react, which made the decision even harder.The study concludes that even when people felt in control of their decision, the decision-making process was still difficult. The decision is not just personal, but is also affected by society, partners, and healthcare policies. The waiting time and the ultrasound before the abortion made the process harder, and abortion seekers were not aware of what to expect from the procedure. More information and education on all aspects of having an abortion should be provided to help people to make better informed decisions and reduce the abortion stigma. Further research on experiences of routine ultrasound before abortion in the Netherlands is needed to improve abortion care.

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Article Details

Title:
The difficult process of autonomous choice: using I-poems to understand experiences of abortion-seekers in The Netherlands.

Author(s):
Holten L; van der Wolf R; van der Pijl MSG

Summary:
This study looked at people's experiences with getting an abortion in the Netherlands. It found that even though abortion is allowed there, people still face challenges. They may worry about what others think, feel ashamed, and not know what to expect from the procedure, which makes the decision harder.

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pubmed id: 37378954 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

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Abstract

Earlier age of anal sex debut (ASD) has been linked with contemporary and long-term health outcomes, including vulnerability to HIV acquisition. The goal of this study was to utilize a life course approach to examine associations between earlier ASD and recent health behaviors among sexual minoritized men (SMM) living with HIV. A total of 1156 U.S. SMM living with HIV recruited from social and sexual networking apps and websites completed online surveys as part of a longitudinal eHealth intervention. Data from baseline surveys were analyzed to determine associations between age of ASD and adult health outcomes, including mental health, HIV viral load, and substance use. The median age of ASD among these participants was 17 years old, consistent with other work. Earlier ASD was significantly associated with a greater likelihood of past 2-week anxiety (AOR = 1.45, 95% CI 1.07-1.97) and past 3-month opioid use (AOR = 1.60, 95% CI 1.13-2.26); no significant associations were found for recent depression, HIV viral load, or stimulant use. Earlier ASD may function as an important proxy measure for deleterious health outcomes in adulthood, particularly recent anxiety and opioid use. Expansion of comprehensive and affirming sexual health education is critical to early engagement of individuals with a higher risk of HIV acquisition, with plausible downstream health benefits lasting into adulthood among SMM living with HIV.

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Article Details

Title:
Association Between Age of Anal Sex Debut and Adult Health Behaviors Among Sexual Minoritized Men Living with HIV.

Author(s):
Diaz JE; Preciado E; Chiasson MA; Hirshfield S

Summary:
The study looked at how starting anal sex earlier affects health in men living with HIV. It found that men who started anal sex younger were more likely to feel anxious and use opioids recently. The study suggests that better sexual health education could help improve health for these men as they grow older.

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pubmed id: 37378702 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

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Abstract

Transgender and gender expansive emerging adults experience multiple forms of gender minority stress, which affect their mental health and wellbeing. Belongingness has been identified as a factor that fosters resilience among this population, with potential protective effects. Few studies have explored the role of thwarted belongingness and its potential moderating effect on the relation between gender minority stress and mental health. This study recruited a sample of 93 transgender and gender expansive emerging adults between the ages of 18 and 21 to examine whether thwarted belongingness significantly moderates the relations between gender minority stressors and mental health symptoms. We found evidence that thwarted belongingness moderates the relation between social rejection and depressive symptoms and the interaction effect between thwarted belongingness and victimization was significantly associated with psychological stress. For both of these associations, high levels of thwarted belongingness amplified the positive relation between gender minority stress and mental health symptoms. In contrast, at low levels of thwarted belongingness, the relation between rejection and depression was negative and the association between victimization and psychological stress was no longer statistically significant. Findings suggest that factors that minimize or interrupt thwarted belongingness among transgender and gender expansive emerging adults may be points of intervention to improve mental health outcomes in this population.

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Article Details

Title:
Transgender and gender expansive emerging adults: The moderating role of thwarted belongingness on mental health.

Author(s):
Watts KJ; Matijczak A; Tomlinson CA; Wagaman MA; Murphy JL; O'Connor K; McDonald SE

Summary:
The study looked at how feeling like you don't belong affects the mental health of transgender young adults. It found that when people feel left out and also face stress from being a gender minority, their mental health can get worse. Helping these young adults feel like they belong could make their mental health better.

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pubmed id: 37378301 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

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Abstract

We investigated the prevalence of problematic masturbation using different criteria. We also investigated if masturbation-related distress was associated with sexual abuse history, family attitudes towards sexuality during childhood, and depression and anxiety symptoms. Here, 12,271 Finnish men and women completed a survey reporting masturbation frequency, desired masturbation frequency, sexual distress, childhood sexual abuse, sex-positive family background, as well as depression and anxiety symptoms. Among both sexes, those whose masturbation frequency did not match with desired frequency experienced more sexual distress. Different conceptualizations of problematic masturbation resulted in different proportions of individuals categorized as having it (i.e., 8.3% of men and 2.7% of women experienced self-perceived problematic masturbation, that is masturbating more than they desired and experiencing sexual distress; 2% of men and 0.6% of women masturbated more frequently than average and meanwhile experienced self-perceived problematic masturbation; 6.3% of men and 2.1% of women masturbated less frequently than average but still experienced self-perceived problematic masturbation). Moreover, among both sexes, self-perceived problematic masturbation was positively associated with childhood sexual abuse, depression, and anxiety, while negatively associated with a sex-positive family background. Our results point to the complexity of defining problematic masturbation. Causes of sexual distress related to masturbation need to be carefully examined case by case to choose an appropriate clinical approach.

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Article Details

Title:
Actual and Desired Masturbation Frequency, Sexual Distress, and Their Correlates.

Author(s):
Huang S; Nyman TJ; Jern P; Santtila P

Summary:
Researchers studied how many people had problems with masturbation and if there was a link to childhood experiences or feelings of sadness and worry. They found that people who didn’t feel good about how much they were masturbating had more stress, and this was linked to tough childhood experiences and negative family attitudes about sex. The study shows that understanding these problems is complicated and needs careful attention.

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pubmed id: 37365448 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

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Abstract

This study aimed to better understand the factors influencing the provision of sexuality-related post-stroke rehabilitation services by clinicians on different sites and to explore strategies to improve post-stroke rehabilitation services with stakeholders. A qualitative study with co-design methods was conducted with 20 clinicians from five post-stroke rehabilitation centers in Canada, 1 manager and 1 patient-partner. Participants either took part in a focus group or in sessions of an adapted version of the LEGO Serious Play method to explore influencing factors and strategies of improvement in relation to post-stroke sexual rehabilitation services. Thematic analysis was conducted semi-deductively using the Theoretical Domains Framework (TDF), the Capability, Opportunity, Motivation and Behaviour (COM-B) system and the Behaviour Change Wheel (BCW). A total of twenty factors pertaining either to the categories of Capability (n = 8; e.g., Sexual rehabilitation procedural knowledge), Motivation (n = 4; e.g., Professional boundaries) or Opportunity (n = 8; e.g., Workload) were perceived as influencing provision of sexual rehabilitation services by participants. A theoretical model was conceptualized. Strategies (n = 10) were categorized in concordance with the BCW as Training (n = 1), Enablement (n = 5) or Environmental restructuring (n = 4). This study showed that factors influencing provision of post-stroke rehabilitation services were numerous and interrelated, and that various strategies aiming either clinicians or the rehabilitation environment would be relevant to improve services. This study will help guide the design and implementation of future interventions studies aiming at improving post-stroke sexual rehabilitation services.

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Article Details

Title:
Sexual Rehabilitation After a Stroke: A Multi-site Qualitative Study About Influencing Factors and Strategies to Improve Services.

Author(s):
Auger LP; Filiatrault J; Allegue DR; Vachon B; Thomas A; Morales E; Rochette A

Summary:
The study looked at what affects how doctors help people with stroke with their health, especially relating to sexuality, and how to make their services better. They talked to doctors, a manager, and a patient in Canada and used special group activities and tools to find what helps or stops good service and made plans to improve it. They found lots of things that affect services, like what doctors know and how busy they are, and made a plan to help doctors do better in these areas.

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pubmed id: 37362801 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

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Abstract

In the current intersectionality-focused discourse within sexuality research, individuals existing at the convergence of intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) and lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer+ (LGBTQ+) are often overlooked. Individuals with IDD face difficulties acquiring sexual knowledge and skills due to limited opportunities for sexual socialization, misconceptions concerning sexuality and IDD, lack of comprehensive sexual education, restricted support from staff and caregivers, and a lack of community experiences that facilitate the development of healthy sexuality. When an individual with IDD identifies as LGBTQ+, these disability-related barriers can exacerbate the stigma and discrimination some LGBTQ+ people experience. Using the intimate justice framework, we explore avenues to support and foster inclusivity within the LGBTQ+ community for members with IDD. Several recommendations were identified from the literature search, including logistical considerations and using accessible language for outreach events, presentations, workshops, training, and other activities and opportunities for sexuality education while challenging disability-related stigma in LGBTQ+ spaces.

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Article Details

Title:
Increasing Opportunities for Healthy Sexual Socialization in LGBTQ+ People with IDD: The Role of LGBTQ+ Organizations and Community.

Author(s):
Simić Stanojević I; Baugh M; Greer KM; Piatt J; Yarber W

Summary:
Some people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) who are also LGBTQ+ face challenges in learning about and exploring their sexuality because of stereotypes and a lack of support. This study looks at ways to help include these individuals in the LGBTQ+ community by using clear communication and better education to reduce stigma.

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pubmed id: 37362800 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

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Abstract

People with mild to borderline intellectual disabilities face many barriers toward their sexual health. To promote sexual health and overcome these barriers, they need individualized forms of sexuality support and education. To align sexuality support and education insight is needed on their understanding of sexual health. The current paper aims to provide greater insight in what sexual health consists of according to people with mild to borderline intellectual disabilities. Nine people with a mild to borderline intellectual disability participated in a concept mapping procedure, consisting of brainstorming, sorting, and ranking the statements. The resulting clusters and concept map were interpreted by an expert group. Analysis resulted in five clusters which participants considered important for their sexual health. According to people with mild to borderline intellectual disability cluster pertaining to romantic relationships and sexual socialization were the most important. These were followed by clusters on sexual health and lastly sexual selfhood. These results have implications for the development of sexuality support and education, as well as further research.

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Article Details

Title:
Using to .

Author(s):
de Wit W; Roeg D; Embregts PJCM

Summary:
The study talked to people with mild to borderline intellectual disabilities to learn what they think is important for sexual health. Five important areas were found, with romantic relationships and socialization being the most important. The findings can help create better sexual health support and education for them.

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pubmed id: 37362799 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

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Abstract

Child sexual abuse material (CSAM) has become a global problem. With technological advancements, a sub-type of material has emerged: virtual child sexual abuse material (VCSAM). Despite the far-reaching harms of this material, little is known about VCSAM offenders. Research has found some disconnect between the perceived harmfulness of VCSAM and legislative definitions, compared with CSAM. Given the media's influential ability to shape public perceptions, this exploratory study aimed to: (1) identify the characteristics of VCSAM offenders and (2) explore whether the harms of VCSAM are represented in this reporting. For the most up-to-date data, the search spanned 1 January 2019 to 23 September 2022. Of the 160 newspaper articles that appeared, 25 met the inclusion criteria. Four themes emerged from the qualitative content analysis: (1) VCSAM is a form of CSAM, (2) potential for escalation in offending from viewing VCSAM, (3) offenders have preferences in specific types of VCSAM (with the sub-theme: written stories and documents are VCSAM too), and (4) offenders "didn't know" the material was illegal. Overall, these findings were positive; how cases were reported may broadly educate the public about VCSAM offending, with articles signifying the harms of this offending. The current findings have the potential to contribute to prevention and intervention efforts, with utility in policymaking, criminal justice, media, and psychology disciplines.

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Article Details

Title:
The Characteristics of Virtual Child Sexual Abuse Material Offenders and the Harms of Offending: A Qualitative Content Analysis of Print Media.

Author(s):
Christensen LS; Vickery N

Summary:
This study looked at how newspapers talk about virtual child sexual abuse material (VCSAM). They found that many articles explained it well and showed how harmful it can be, which can help make better rules and help prevent it in the future.

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pubmed id: 37360021 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

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Abstract

Despite being a common sexual practice, not much is known about masturbation within the Malaysian context. The current study examined the masturbation practices of a convenience sample of Malaysian young adults, and how one's reported experience of masturbating and frequency of masturbation is associated with sexual and psychological well-being. Satisfaction with sex life, satisfaction with life, depression, anxiety, and stress were measured as outcome variables. Responses from 621 participants ( = 22.1 years, = 2.4 years) that were collected through an online questionnaire were analyzed. Results revealed that most participants (77.7%) had masturbated at least once in their life. Sexual satisfaction and psychological well-being did not differ between those who reported masturbating before and those who did not. Among those with masturbation experience, higher frequency of masturbation was associated with less sexual satisfaction and more symptoms of anxiety and stress. Masturbation frequency was not associated with life satisfaction or reports of depressive symptoms. Gender, frequency of partnered sex, availability of a sexual partner, and religiosity did not moderate the relationships between masturbation frequency with sexual satisfaction and psychological well-being. Although the limitations of the current study impede generalizability, masturbation was found to be a common behavior among the current sample. Causal inferences cannot be drawn from the significant associations found in the current study, as the findings indicate such relationships may be bidirectional.

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Article Details

Title:
Masturbation Among Malaysian Young Adults: Associated Sexual and Psychological Well-Being Outcomes.

Author(s):
Phuah LA; Teng JHJ; Goh PH

Summary:
The study looked at how often young adults in Malaysia masturbate and how it affects them. It found that most people had tried it at least once, but doing it more often didn't always make them happier. In fact, more frequent masturbation was linked to feeling more anxious and stressed.

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pubmed id: 37360020 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

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Abstract

The misconceptions that old age is an asexual phase of human life has been challenged by increasing empirical evidence which shows that sexual activity persists in old age albeit in different forms and frequency. This study examined how a group of older people in southeastern Nigeria express their sexual behaviour. The semi-structured individual interviews with 14 older people (9 male, 5 female) aged 60?89 years were conducted using an exploratory qualitative approach. The data generated were analysed thematically, and two themes were conceptualised including and . These themes supported a pattern among the participants where there is a drop in the frequency of physical sexual behaviour but their sexual interests were described to be more stable. However, the sexual interest is channelled into more intimate sexual behaviour. Thus, sexual behaviours in later life in this study were not declining but showed diversity and modifications; most have adjusted to incorporate more emotional bonding and caring. More so, what forms of sexual behaviour constitute for these older partners are often linked to the presence of dynamic interplay of influencing factors ingrained on the level of the older partners mutuality in understanding and responding to theencroaching age-related changes in their sexual behaviour. Remarkably, these factors could be controlled, which signposts a potential premise and point of policy and practical intervention to promote healthy sexual behaviour in later life.

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Article Details

Title:
Changes and Forms of Sexual Behaviour in old age: A Qualitative Study of Older People in Southeastern Nigeria.

Author(s):
Ede SS; Chepngeno-Langat G; Okoh CF

Summary:
Older people can still be interested in and have different types of sexual behaviors. In this study, older people in Nigeria showed they may act less physically but connect more emotionally in their relationships. The research suggests that even with aging, people can keep their sexual interests in new ways that include more caring and emotional bonds.

Meta:
pubmed id: 37360019 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

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Abstract

Sexual satisfaction is important to individual well-being and relationship satisfaction, making it a research topic relevant for sex clinicians and relationship therapists. The current study adds to sexuality literature by asking participants questions about the factors involved in "great sex." We conducted 78 interviews via email or phone with participants ranging in age from 18 to 69. The sample included a diverse range of sexual orientations and identities, and various relationship statuses. Three primary themes emerged regarding great sex: orgasm, an emotional component, and chemistry/connection. Though some participants equated an emotional aspect as love; most participants made clear the difference between love and emotional elements in sex. Many participants shared their belief that a man only invests in his female partner's orgasm when he also invests in her emotionally. Thus, some women explained that the emotional component helped them be present enough to orgasm. Others explained the emotional component as trust and affection. Participants also elaborated to define chemistry, which they regarded as out of one's control and impossible to manufacture. A smaller number of participants stated unequivocally the lack of necessity of an emotional aspect to great sex; they stated instead that physical connection trumped an emotional component.

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Article Details

Title:
Caring, Chemistry, and Orgasms: Components of Great Sexual Experiences.

Author(s):
Walker AM; Lutmer A

Summary:
Researchers interviewed people about what makes sex great. They found that important parts of great sex include orgasm, emotions, and chemistry. Some people said emotions like love or trust helped them enjoy sex more, but others said physical connection was the most important.

Meta:
pubmed id: 37360018 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

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Abstract

Victims of revenge pornography (RP) suffer long-term psychological, personal, and social consequences, given that the spread of explicit content may continue to disturb them throughout their lives. However, there is a scarcity of studies on this phenomenon in Portugal. The present study aims to identify the prevalence of RP and analyze its impact on self-esteem, humiliation, depression, and anxiety, and compare victims and non-victims of RP on these same variables. The sample comprises 274 Portuguese women aged between 18 and 82. The data was collected through an online protocol consisting of a sociodemographic questionnaire, the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale, the Humiliation Inventory, and the Brief Symptoms Inventory. From the total sample, 45 (16.4%) participants reported at least one experience of RP. RP victims reported higher levels of humiliation, anxiety, and depression and lower levels of self-esteem than non-victims. However, only humiliation distinguished RP victims and non-victims. RP is a growing phenomenon enhanced by the intensified use of technology. Along with this phenomenon comes the impact on victims, which has long-term consequences. This study contributes to the scientific community since the scientific study of RP and its impact on victims is still incipient.

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Article Details

Title:
Prevalence and Impact of Revenge Pornography on a Sample of Portuguese Women.

Author(s):
Murça A; Cunha O; Almeida TC

Summary:
The study looked at what happens when people's private photos are shared without their permission in Portugal. It found that women who had this happen felt more humiliated, anxious, and sad, and had lower self-esteem. Not many studies like this have been done there, so this research helps us learn more about the problem.

Meta:
pubmed id: 37360017 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

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Abstract

Around 142 million American adults are currently single; at least half of these singles want to pursue a romantic partner. Romantic dating can involve exposure to numerous people. Thus, dating can significantly impact pathogen exposure risk. In a demographically-representative cross-sectional survey conducted in 2021 ( = 5,000), we examined U.S. American singles' COVID-19 vaccination status, assessed their preferences around a potential partner's COVID-19 vaccination status, and identified demographic subgroups of singles particularly opposed to or indifferent to a partner being vaccinated against COVID-19. Our results showed 65% of participants were fully vaccinated, 10% were partially vaccinated, and 26% were unvaccinated against COVID-19. With regards to partner preferences, half wanted a vaccinated partner; 18.9% wanted a vaccinated partner but would make exceptions; 6.1% wanted an unvaccinated partner; and 25% reported that they did not care about their dating partner's vaccination status. Partner preferences were largely aligned with participants' own vaccination status, such that vaccinated participants preferred vaccinated partners. However, those preferring unvaccinated partners-or those willing to make exceptions for a partner-were most likely to identify as men, younger in age, a political affiliation outside of the two-party political system, a gender or sexual minority, or as a racial minority (i.e., Black/African-American or South Asian). Additionally, participants who were employed (vs. unemployed) were more likely to make exceptions for or prefer an unvaccinated partner. These results suggest that singles prefer homophily in COVID-19 vaccine status, and that minoritized subgroups of singles are more likely to maintain a social network including unvaccinated close others.

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Article Details

Title:
American Singles' Attitudes Toward Future Romantic/Sexual Partners' COVID-19 Vaccination Status: Evidence for both Vigilance and Indifference in a National Sample.

Author(s):
T Campbell J; Bennett-Brown M; S Marcotte A; M Kaufman E; Moscovici Z; R Adams O; Lovins S; R Garcia J; N Gesselman A

Summary:
Many people in the U.S. are single and dating, which affects how they feel about COVID-19 vaccination. A study found that most singles prefer partners who match their own vaccine status; vaccinated people want vaccinated partners, and some unvaccinated or flexible people are often younger, belong to minority groups, or have different political views. This shows that people usually look for partners with similar thoughts on the vaccine.

Meta:
pubmed id: 37360016 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

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Abstract

Infertility is one of the components of sexual and reproductive health and rights, but is not as widely addressed as pregnancy, birth, and contraception. Infertility is a global problem, and it is estimated that around 186 million individuals are affected worldwide. Infertility and infertility treatment impact on women's overall wellbeing including their mental, emotional, sexual and spiritual health. Anxiety and depression is prevalent in these women. This study sought to explore the experiences of women going through infertility and IVF in a global context. This study is a metasynthesis with a meta-ethnographic analysis design based on 19 qualitative research studies, including 503 women, focusing on women's experiences of infertility and IVF treatments. Three main themes were identified; the personal reproductive trauma, the impact of and on relationships, and being failed by the healthcare system and society. The personal trauma and experiences included stress, grief, inability to focus, chock, insomnia, anxiety, withdrawing from others, sense of hopelessness and guilt and shame. The infertility and IVF journey also either caused conflicts in relationships or helped the couples to grow stronger. At the same time, relationships with friends and family were strained due to isolation and feeling stigmatized, and not understood. Finally, the healthcare system and providers lacked adequate support, holistic and caring care, and the women felt dehumanized and failed by the healthcare system. It is therefore critical that the healthcare system provide the time, information and support needed to deal with infertility and IVF to maintain quality of life and wellbeing.

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Article Details

Title:
Women's experience of infertility & treatment - A silent grief and failed care and support.

Author(s):
Assaysh-Öberg S; Borneskog C; Ternström E

Summary:
Many people around the world face challenges with having babies, which can make women feel very sad and stressed. This study looked at how women feel when they can't have babies and try treatments like IVF. The women felt let down by doctors and society, which made things harder for them.

Meta:
pubmed id: 37356208 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

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Abstract

COVID-19 and associated policy responses created unique social, economic and health risks for sex workers. Through semi-structured interviews we explored pre- and early COVID-19 experiences and work practices of ten cisgender female sex workers 50 years of age and older in Queensland, Australia, analysing the findings using a risk environment framework. Throughout early 2020, participants navigated a complex risk environment, managing economic needs, health and safety, occupational stigma and policing. Australia's policy responses altered the risks and opportunities available to participants. Half the participants continued sex work and half stopped sex work with some accessing economic support and withdrawing superannuation savings. Those who continued sex work drew on life and work experience to reassess changing health, stigma, and policing risks, and adapted their work strategies by increasing client screening and modifying services. Participants relied on information from peer networks and organisations to guide work practices but remained wary of contact tracing, police and the media. Decriminalisation of sex work and the strengthening of sex worker organisation and government partnerships are important in embedding equity in responses to ongoing and new public health threats.

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Article Details

Title:
'Change creates change' - older female sex workers' experiences through the early COVID-19 pandemic.

Author(s):
Brennan RP; Fitzgerald L; Dean JA; Selvey L

Summary:
The study looked at how older female sex workers in Queensland, Australia, were affected by COVID-19. Some continued their work while others stopped, trying to handle health and money challenges. They adapted by being more careful with clients and getting help from others, and the study suggests making sex work legal could help protect them.

Meta:
pubmed id: 37355340 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

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