×

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a detrimental impact on sexual and reproductive health (SRH) and rights globally. However, little is known about the experiences of people with disabilities accessing SRH services during the COVID-19 pandemic. In this community-engaged qualitative study, we examined COVID-related impacts on access to SRH services for people with disabilities. We interviewed 61 women and gender-diverse people in Canada from May 2022 to March 2023. Informed by disability reproductive justice, we identified four major themes through constructivist analysis. First, COVID-related changes to SRH service delivery disrupted access to care and caused disability-related health implications. Second, pandemic response measures changed SRH service accessibility: in-person accessibility barriers were amplified, new in-person accessibility barriers were introduced, and the transition to telehealth exacerbated, as well as mitigated, accessibility barriers. Third, COVID-related social changes (e.g. lockdowns) had disability-related SRH and rights implications. Fourth, disabled people recommended improving SRH services by enhancing funding, provider training, information and communication, disability accommodations, representation, and comprehensive community engagement. Cutting across these themes were disproportionate negative impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on access to SRH services for racialised women and gender-diverse people with disabilities. Failure to ensure SRH and rights for women and gender-diverse people with disabilities during the COVID-19 pandemic undermined disability reproductive justice. Comprehensive disability community engagement is necessary to inform accessible SRH services and policies, both during and beyond a pandemic.

Read the full article

---

Article Details

Title:
Impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on access to sexual and reproductive health services for women and gender-diverse people with disabilities in Canada: a qualitative study.

Author(s):
Evans M; Rego A; Ogbonna N; Welsh K; Zafar SK; Barker LC; Berndl A; Mont JD; Lunsky Y; McPherson A; Tarasoff LA; Vandermorris A; Brown HK

Summary:
The COVID-19 pandemic made it harder for people with disabilities to get health services related to sex and having babies. Many people, like women and those with different gender identities in Canada, faced new problems with getting help in-person and online. They suggest better training for helpers and more support for their needs.

Meta:
pubmed id: 39668741 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

×

Abstract

Clitoral priapism is persistent clitoral engorgement without sexual stimulation. Presentation is sparse, and therefore limited treatment options have been investigated.

Read the full article

---

Article Details

Title:
Extracorporeal shock wave therapy as a treatment option for persistent clitoral priapism: a case report.

Author(s):
Buford K; Phung L; Zwaans BMM; Padmanabhan P; Rubin RS; Peters KM

Summary:
Clitoral priapism is when the clitoris stays swollen for a long time without being sexually excited. There aren’t many reported cases, so not much is known about how to treat it.

Meta:
pubmed id: 39664412 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

×

Abstract

Although various compartments of the human cardiovascular system have been thoroughly elucidated, the penile fibrovascular assembly remains an exception that has yet to be fully explored; therefore, this gap in our understanding prompts us to conduct further investigations.

Read the full article

---

Article Details

Title:
A detailed analysis of the penile fibro-vascular assembly.

Author(s):
Hsu GL; Chang HC; Molodysky E; Hsu CY; Tsai MH; Yin JH; Chen MT

Summary:
Scientists know a lot about the heart and blood vessels, but they don't know as much about the blood vessels in the penis. This means they need to study this area more.

Meta:
pubmed id: 39664021 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

×

Abstract

Postpartum depression affects 10-15% of women. Novel evidence suggests that genomic markers for enhanced sensitivity to estradiol signaling may help identify women at high risk of postpartum depression. We explored the women's perceptions of testing for genomic risk markers for developing postpartum depression.

Read the full article

---

Article Details

Title:
Women's perceptions of biological causes and potentials of genomic risk markers in postpartum depression: A qualitative study.

Author(s):
Høgh S; Hegaard HK; Renault KM; Svendsen MN; Navne LE; Frokjaer VG

Summary:
Some women get sad after having a baby, called postpartum depression. Scientists think there might be clues in our genes that show who is more likely to get it. This study looked at what women think about testing for these gene clues.

Meta:
pubmed id: 39662147 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

×

Abstract

Genital herpes simplex virus (HSV) type 1 and 2 infections are lifelong and can cause symptomatic genital ulcer disease (GUD). HSV-2 almost always causes sexually transmitted genital infection, while HSV-1 mainly causes oral infection but can be sexually transmitted to cause genital infection. This study estimated genital infection with both HSV types and associated GUD globally in 2020, breaking down the data by WHO region and sex for females and males.

Read the full article

---

Article Details

Title:
Estimated global and regional incidence and prevalence of herpes simplex virus infections and genital ulcer disease in 2020: mathematical modelling analyses.

Author(s):
Harfouche M; AlMukdad S; Alareeki A; Osman AMM; Gottlieb S; Rowley J; Abu-Raddad LJ; Looker KJ

Summary:
Herpes simplex virus (HSV) can cause lifelong infections and sores on the genitals. HSV-2 usually spreads through sexual contact, while HSV-1 typically causes cold sores but can also spread to the genitals. This study looked at how many people had these infections around the world in 2020, separating the data by different regions and by gender.

Meta:
pubmed id: 39658199 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

×

Abstract

Background Abortion is a common procedure in Australia; it is estimated that the rate is between 15 and 17 per 1000 women. Surgical and medical abortion options are available; however, the use of medical abortion is not as common as in other similar countries. The aim of this study is to understand preferences for the provision of early abortion services in Australia. Methods We conducted a survey of 821 members of an online panel representative of the Australian adult general population. The survey consisted of a discrete choice experiment including 16 choice tasks and a number of follow-up questions. A mixed logit model was used to analyse the responses to the discrete choice experiment. Results Respondents preferred services that provided surgical abortion compared with early medical abortion (EMA). They preferred consultations with a specialist gynaecologist compared with a general practitioner (GP); consultations with a GP were preferred to those with a nurse practitioner. Face-to-face consultations were preferred to telehealth. For EMA, respondents preferred to collect medication from the doctor's surgery rather than from a pharmacy or to receive it by post. Overall, respondents preferred lower-cost services. There were no differences in preferences between respondents with or without experience of abortion or between genders. Conclusions Respondents prefer abortion services with low out-of-pocket costs. Their reluctance to use a nurse-led service may reflect the general public's lack of understanding of and familiarity with the training and expertise of nurse practitioners. Similarly, the safety and benefits of EMA relative to surgery, including EMA delivered by telehealth, need to be emphasised.

Read the full article

---

Article Details

Title:
Preferences for the delivery of early abortion services in Australia: a discrete choice experiment.

Author(s):
Church J; Haas M; Street DJ; Bateson D; Mazza D

Summary:
This study looked at what kind of abortion services people in Australia like best. Most people preferred surgical abortions with face-to-face consultations with a specialist. They also wanted the services to cost less and felt unsure about services run by nurse practitioners.

Meta:
pubmed id: 39652438 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

×

Abstract

The main objective of this study is to identify the barriers that prevent Roma women and girls from accessing reproductive rights derived from reproductive justice by analysing the discourses of service providers as a facilitating source of information. A qualitative study including nine semi-structured in-person interviews with community service providers was conducted in April-June 2019. The interview script addressed intercultural competences, views on gender discrimination against Roma women, resources available to fight against this discrimination, knowledge and use of these resources in reproductive justice, as well as the networks of actors involved. The qualitative analysis involved a discourse analysis. In the analysis, three focal areas were defined around which barriers to access spaces inspired by reproductive justice for Roma women could be identified. In each of the focal areas (stereotypes, discrimination and intercultural competences), discourses and practices have been observed in contrasting ways that can prevent access, as well as others that can facilitate access based on prejudices about Roma culture and people. The relationship models between professionals and users of the Roma population project stereotypes that are an obstacle in terms of accessing reproductive justice. The right of Roma women to preserve their culture and to actively participate in policies that affect them is not included and guaranteed in public policies. The intention to include the Roma population's situation in an inclusive narrative exists, although without short-term effects. Reproductive justice is an absent framework within professional intervention and the institutional system. .

Read the full article

---

Article Details

Title:
Service providers' perspectives and reproductive (in)justice among Roma women: a qualitative study in Spain.

Author(s):
Rodríguez-Camacho MF; Sanchís-Ramón MJ; Ortiz Barreda G; Gil-González D

Summary:
This study looked at why Roma women and girls have trouble accessing their reproductive rights. Interviews with people who help the Roma community showed that stereotypes and discrimination are big problems. Public policies often don't include Roma women's voices or support their cultural rights.

Meta:
pubmed id: 39651960 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

×

Abstract

Research has identified teaching as a high-risk occupation for lateral violence in the form of harmful covert or overt acts of verbal or non-verbal behaviour carried out by one employee against another who holds an equal or lower position of power. The goal of this study was to explore and describe experiences of lateral violence and its impact on the health of sexual minority pre-service teachers in township schools in South Africa. There is a paucity of research on the experiences of sexual minority teachers in South African schools. A phenomenological approach was adopted, in which eight sexual minority pre-service teachers took part in in-depth interviews to capture their day-to-day experiences during teaching practice. Findings from the study revealed that sexual minority pre-service teachers experienced incidents of lateral violence, predominantly from school management and in-service teachers. These actions exist in tension with the Constitution of South Africa, which prohibits discrimination against citizens based on sexual orientation. Pre-service teachers in this study reported negative mental, physical and social health consequences arising from incidents of lateral violence in schools. Professional development for school management and both pre- and in-service teachers on issues of sexuality and gender diversity in South Africa is needed.

Read the full article

---

Article Details

Title:
Lateral violence and its effects on the health of sexual minority pre-service teachers in township schools in South Africa.

Author(s):
Mampane J; Varjas K

Summary:
The study looked at how mean actions, called lateral violence, affected new teachers who are part of sexual minority groups in South African schools. The new teachers talked about being treated unfairly, mostly by other teachers and school managers, which made them feel bad both mentally and physically. The study says that teachers need more training on understanding different sexualities and genders.

Meta:
pubmed id: 39648714 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

×

Abstract

Immigrant adolescents in Canada face challenges accessing accurate sexual and reproductive health (SRH) information and services. Many challenges stem from taboos associated with SRH, cultural and religious restrictions, and social beliefs regarding the unnecessity of SRH education for adolescents. We explored the SRH experiences of immigrant adolescents in the context of their cultural and religious perspectives. We engaged adolescents as collaborators and active participants in the research process. With the support of an Adolescent Advisory Group (AAG) and community partners, we conducted qualitative interviews with immigrant adolescents in Edmonton, Toronto, and Vancouver ( = 58). Through thematic analysis, we identified three broad themes: (1) 'What's really happening?' Experiencing body changes from puberty to adulthood; (2) 'It's something that's shameful': Encountering myths, misperceptions, and norms about SRH; and (3) 'I'll be there for you': Navigating family and digital resources for support. Our findings highlight the specific SRH challenges faced by immigrant adolescents in Canada, such as differences between cultural values, and communication barriers within families. Dealing with SRH matters is dependent on education, family readiness, and personal values attached to these topics. Programmes must focus on engaging cultural and religious preferences and tailoring interventions to adolescents' needs.

Read the full article

---

Article Details

Title:
Between cultures and traditions: a qualitative investigation of sexual and reproductive health experiences of immigrant adolescents in Canada.

Author(s):
Meherali S; Rehmani AI; Ahmad M; Kauser S; Scott Fiddler P; Pinzon-Hernandez P; Khan Z; Flicker S; Okeke-Ihejirika P; Salami B; Stroulia E; Vandermorris A; Wong J; Norman W; Scott S; Munro S

Summary:
Immigrant teenagers in Canada have a hard time learning about health topics related to their bodies and growing up because of cultural and family beliefs. Researchers talked to teenagers to learn about their experiences and found that myths and family communication made it harder for them to get the help they need. It's important to create programs that respect their cultural and personal needs.

Meta:
pubmed id: 39648708 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

×

Abstract

To investigate the associations between psychological well-being, measured with the Postnatal Well-being in Transition (PostTrans) Questionnaire, and diabetes distress among mothers with type 1 or type 2 diabetes.

Read the full article

---

Article Details

Title:
Psychosocial well-being and diabetes distress in the transition to motherhood among women with type 1 or type 2 diabetes.

Author(s):
Rasmussen B; Mekonnen A; Geller G; Holton S; Orellana L; Nankervis A; Houlihan C; Hendrieckx C; Steele C; McNamara C; Read M; Wynter K

Summary:
The study looks at how being happy affects moms with type 1 or type 2 diabetes. Researchers used a special questionnaire to measure their well-being. They want to see if it helps lower stress about diabetes.

Meta:
pubmed id: 39644589 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

×

Abstract

Various European countries noted increasing (Ng) positivity among cis-gender women and heterosexual men. We assessed changes over time in Ng among men who exclusively have sex with men (MSM), men who exclusively have sex with women (MSW), men who have sex with men and women (MSMW), women and transgender and gender diverse people (TGP).

Read the full article

---

Article Details

Title:
Increase in infections after ending COVID-19 lockdown measures in Amsterdam, the Netherlands.

Author(s):
Teker B; Schim van der Loeff MF; Boyd A; Hoornenborg E; Stam AJ; de Vries HJC; Jongen VW

Summary:
Scientists looked at how often a certain disease shows up in different groups like women, men who like women, men who like men, men who like both, and transgender people in Europe. They noticed more people getting this disease over time.

Meta:
pubmed id: 39643436 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

×

Abstract

Compared to first trimester abortions, those in the second trimester significantly contribute to maternal morbidity and mortality, particularly in low- and middle-income settings where access to safe second trimester abortion services is restricted. This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence and factors associated with induced second trimester abortions in India.

Read the full article

---

Article Details

Title:
Assessment of delayed termination of pregnancy in India: Evidence from National Family Health Survey, 2019-21.

Author(s):
Shekhar C; Sahoo H; Das L

Summary:
This study looks at how often second trimester abortions happen in India and what factors are linked to them. These abortions can be more dangerous, especially in places where it's hard to get safe medical help.

Meta:
pubmed id: 39642666 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

×

Abstract

Background Top-down implementation strategies led by researchers often generate limited or tokenistic community engagement. Co-creation, a community engagement methodology, aims to create a shared leadership role of program beneficiaries in the development and implementation of programs, and encourages early and deep involvement of community members. We describe our experience using a four-stage co-creation approach to adapt and implement a sexually transmitted diseases (STD) testing intervention among men who have sex with men (MSM) in China. Methods We adapted a four-stage approach to co-creation. First, we conducted a needs assessment based on our prior work and discussions with community members. Second, we planned for co-creation by establishing co-creator roles and recruiting co-creators using both stratified convenience and opportunistic sampling. Third, we conducted co-creation via hybrid online/in-person focus groups (four multistakeholder groups and four MSM-only groups). Finally, we evaluated validity of the co-creation process through qualitative observations by research staff, analyzed using rapid qualitative analysis, and evaluated co-creator experience through post-discussion survey Likert scales and open-ended feedback. Results Needs assessment identified the needs to adapt our STD intervention to be independently run at community-based and public clinics, and to develop explanations and principles of co-creation for our potential co-creators. In total, there were 17 co-creation members: one co-creation lead (researcher), two co-chairs (one gay influencer and one research assistant), eight MSM community members, four health workers (two health professionals and two lay health workers) and two research implementers and observers. Co-created contents for the trial included strategies to decrease stigma and tailor interventions to MSM at public STD clinics, strategies to integrate STD testing services into existing community-led clinics, and intervention components to enhance acceptability and community engagement. Our evaluation of validity identified three main themes: challenges with representation, inclusivity versus power dynamics and importance of leadership. Surveys and free responses suggested that the majority of co-creators had a positive experience and desired more ownership. Conclusion We successfully adapted a structured co-creation approach to adapt and implement an STD testing intervention for a vulnerable population. This approach may be useful for implementation, and further research is needed in other contexts and populations.

Read the full article

---

Article Details

Title:
Co-creation and community engagement in implementation research with vulnerable populations: a co-creation process in China.

Author(s):
Zhang L; Li KT; Wang T; Luo D; Tan RKJ; Marley G; Tang W; Ramaswamy R; Tucker JD; Wu D

Summary:
Researchers worked with community members to improve a program for testing sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) among men who have sex with men in China. They involved community members in planning and running the program to make it better and more accepted. Most people involved felt good about the process and wanted to have more control in the future.

Meta:
pubmed id: 39636717 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

×

Abstract

In sub-Saharan Africa, approximately 86% of HIV infections in adolescents aged 15-19 years occur among girls. Their heightened susceptibility is likely influenced by converging sociobehavioural and biological factors, although the relative contributions remain unclear. To address this, we compared known and hypothesised risk factors for HIV between cisgender adolescent girls and adult women in South Africa and evaluated the relationships between these factors and sexually transmitted infection (STI) status.

Read the full article

---

Article Details

Title:
Differences in HIV risk factors between South African adolescents and adult women and their association with sexually transmitted infections.

Author(s):
Mkhize P; Mehou-Loko C; Maphumulo N; Radzey N; Abrahams AG; Sibeko S; Harryparsad R; Manhanzva M; Meyer B; Radebe P; Liebenberg LJP; Ngcapu S; Ahmed N; Busakwe F; Mqaba N; Archary D; Sivro A; Samsunder N; Potloane D; Horsnell W; Jordan C; Abdool Karim Q; Bekker LG; Passmore JA; Jaspan H; Humphries H; Masson L

Summary:
In sub-Saharan Africa, most teens with HIV are girls, and this study looks at why girls might be more likely to get HIV. It compares certain risk factors between teen girls and adult women in South Africa and checks how they relate to other infections.

Meta:
pubmed id: 39632075 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

×

Abstract

Given the continued increases in rates of both Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) and Neisseria gonorrhoeae (NG) infection, additional diagnostic assays may be useful in increasing access to testing for these sexually transmitted infections. We evaluated the performance of the NeuMoDx™ CT/NG Assay 2.0 on the NeuMoDx-96 and NeuMoDx-288 Molecular Systems.

Read the full article

---

Article Details

Title:
Multicenter Clinical Performance Evaluation of the NeuMoDx™ CT/NG Assay 2.0.

Author(s):
Van Der Pol B; Avery A; Taylor SN; Miller J; Emery CL; English A; Lazenby GB; Lillis R; Ruth J; Young D; Young S; Chavoustie S; Crane L; Reid V; Wall G; Johnson S

Summary:
The study looked at how well a new test works for finding specific infections. These infections are caused by bacteria called Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae. They tested this new method with special machines to see if it could help people get tested more easily.

Meta:
pubmed id: 39629837 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

×

Abstract

Young men who have sex with men in Brazil face vulnerability to HIV and display lower PrEP uptake and adherence. Understanding their engagement with digital technologies can better inform mobile health (mHealth) strategies for HIV prevention and care. As part of the Conectad@s study, a HIV status-neutral prevention and care intervention for young men who have sex with men, we conducted semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions with 38 participants between January-February 2021. Participants discussed their use of digital technologies and their perceptions of mHealth interventions for HIV prevention and care. Key findings included the high use of digital technologies for social interaction and to meeting sex partners through dating apps; novel uses of communication and social networking apps to meet sex partners; strong acceptance of mHealth strategies to improve HIV prevention and care, with WhatsApp being the preferred platform; preference for receiving short messages containing information about HIV and other sexually transmitted infections in addition to PrEP reminders; and interest in interacting with research team members, especially peers, to discuss combination HIV prevention.

Read the full article

---

Article Details

Title:
Young men who have sex with men and digital technologies for HIV prevention and care: qualitative findings from the conectad@s study.

Author(s):
Castanheira D; Pereira CR; Jalil CM; Novaes D; Peixoto E; Fernandez NM; Neto EC; Bezerra DRB; Alves AS; Jalil EM; Veloso VG; Mc Farland W; Wilson EC; Grinsztejn B; Torres TS

Summary:
In Brazil, young men who are attracted to other men use phones a lot to meet people and talk about health. They like using apps like WhatsApp to get messages about staying healthy and reminders for medicine. They’re also interested in chatting with people who know about HIV prevention.

Meta:
pubmed id: 39628042 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

×

Abstract

Including a "something else" response option for survey questions about sexual identity significantly moderates estimated differences between sexual identity subgroups in terms of behaviors and attitudes reported in U.S. health surveys. We hypothesize that these moderation effects will be larger in states with negative policies that fail to protect sexual minorities from discrimination. We tested this hypothesis by linking public-use data from the National Survey of Family Growth (2015-2019), which randomly assigned respondents to receive either a four-category measure of sexual identity, including "something else" as a response option, or a three-category measure omitting "something else," to year-specific state-level policy data from the Movement Advancement Project, which tracks state policies related to sexual minorities. In multivariable models for measures of substance use, reproductive health, family formation, and other correlates of health, we tested three-way interactions involving sexual identity, measurement type, and state-level policy classification. As hypothesized, we find repeated evidence (10 of the 32 health-related measures analyzed) of changes in the moderating effects of question type on sexual identity differences, with more prominent effects in negative policy environments. Suboptimal measurement of sexual identity may therefore have the largest negative effects on estimated health disparities in states with fewer protective policies.

Read the full article

---

Article Details

Title:
Are the Effects of Poor Survey Measurement of Sexual Identity on Estimated Associations between Sexual Identity and Health-Related Measures Moderated by the State-Level Policy Environment?

Author(s):
West BT; Engstrom CW; McCabe SE; Schepis TS; Hu RF; Evans-Polce RJ

Summary:
Researchers found that adding a "something else" option to survey questions about sexual identity changes the results, especially in states with fewer protections for sexual minorities. They used data to see how this impacts health-related topics and noticed that it makes a big difference in places with negative policies.

Meta:
pubmed id: 39626109 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

×

Abstract

Faith-based colleges often navigate a complex terrain where religious convictions sometimes conflict with the presence of queer students on campus, leading to Title IX discrimination challenges. Within the legal and policy landscape, a critical aspect often overlooked by campus leaders is the provision of resources and support aimed at nurturing queer students' religious identities. Pulling from a sample of  = 887 queer students, multilevel regression results showed that utilizing campus safety and financial aid services, joining an LGBTQ+ student organization, participating in intergroup dialogue, and engaging in religious discussions with other students may contribute to religious identity salience.

Read the full article

---

Article Details

Title:
Queer Students and Religious Identity Salience: Legal Challenges and a Call for Inclusivity.

Author(s):
Yang J

Summary:
Some religious schools face difficulties when their beliefs clash with having LGBTQ+ students. A study of 887 LGBTQ+ students showed that when these students used campus services and joined groups, it helped them feel stronger about their religious identity.

Meta:
pubmed id: 39626107 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

×

Abstract

Research on the views and experiences of older LGBTQ+ adults accessing long-term care (LTC) identifies concerns of discrimination and identity loss. However, what the concept of psychological safety means to this population in LTC and later-life housing has been neglected. Understanding psychological safety could help ensure the needs of LGBTQ+ elders are understood and considered more appropriately in LTC planning and operation. Thirty-six older LGBTQ+ adults were interviewed individually or in focus groups. Data were analyzed inductively using reflexive thematic analysis. Eleven subthemes were identified and organized around six main themes: 1) historical impact on psychological safety, 2) discrimination in the current living context, 3) acceptance from others and self, 4) belonging and connection, 5) protection and security, and 6) moving away from heteronormative care. This novel study found that the past and current experiences of LGBTQ+ elders with discrimination and its impact on psychological safety need to be understood and incorporated within staff training. Acceptance, belonging and connection, and protection and security strengthened psychological safety. LTC services and its staff need to move away from heteronormative care, present positive LGBTQ+ attitudes, and show an understanding and awareness of LGBTQ+ intergenerational and intercommunity similarities and differences to engender psychological safety.

Read the full article

---

Article Details

Title:
Psychological Safety in Later Life Housing: What it Means to Older LGBTQ+ Adults.

Author(s):
Helmrath S; Flynn S; Shirley LJ

Summary:
The study talked to older LGBTQ+ adults about their feelings and experiences in long-term care. It found that understanding safety feelings, like feeling accepted and protected, is important for making care places better for them. The study says that care services should be more open and kind to LGBTQ+ people.

Meta:
pubmed id: 39626106 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

×

Abstract

Minority stress is the leading explanation for sexual minority women's (SMW) higher rates of, and heavier, alcohol use compared to heterosexual women. Little is known about how both partners' sexual minority stressors impact alcohol consumption in a dyadic context, and even less research has considered these effects at the day-level. This study utilizes dyadic daily diary data to test associations of each partner's sexual minority stress events with drinking outcomes (day-level alcohol use, heavy episodic drinking [HED], and estimated blood alcohol content [eBAC]) among women in same-gender relationships ( 159 couples). Because high-quality relationships may buffer adverse effects of minority stress on alcohol use outcomes, effect modification was also considered. Results differed across alcohol use outcomes. One's own experience of sexual minority stress was associated with one's own greater odds of drinking that day, = 1.33, 95% CI 1.10, 1.61, = .003, whereas one's partner's experience of sexual minority stress was associated with greater odds of same-day HED, = 1.60, 95% CI 1.24, 2.01, < .001 (no significant effects emerged for eBAC). Relationship functioning was associated with lower eBAC only, = -0.01, 95% CI -0.01, -0.00, = .031. No significant effect modification emerged. This initial exploration of how both partners' exposure to sexual minority stressors impact SMW's alcohol use demonstrates nuanced effects across different alcohol outcomes, and is among the first to demonstrate some degree of sexual minority stress contagion on HED.

Read the full article

---

Article Details

Title:
Stigma and the Couple: How Daily Stigma Experiences Influence Relationship Functioning and Alcohol Use in Female Cisgender Couples.

Author(s):
Norris AL; Cornelius T; Panza E; Lewis RJ

Summary:
This study looks at how stress from being a sexual minority affects drinking habits in women partners. It found that both partners' stress can increase drinking, and strong relationships can help lower some effects. Different stress experiences led to different drinking outcomes.

Meta:
pubmed id: 39624642 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

×

Abstract

The dark-ego-vehicle principle (DEVP) suggests that individuals with so-called dark personalities (e.g., high narcissistic traits) are attracted to political and social activism that they can repurpose to satisfy their specific ego-focused needs (e.g., signaling moral superiority and manipulating others) instead of achieving prosocial goals. Currently, research on the DEVP is still rare. With two pre-registered studies, we sought further evidence for the DEVP by examining the associations of pathological narcissistic grandiosity with involvement in LGBQ activism (Study 1) and gender identity activism (Study 2). Socioeconomically diverse samples from the USA (Study 1; N = 446) and the UK (Study 2; N = 837) were recruited online via the research-oriented crowdsourcing platform Prolific. Individuals completed the Pathological Narcissism Inventory as well as measures of involvement in activism. Moreover, we assessed different covariates (e.g., altruism), and potential correlates within the narcissism-activism relationship (i.e., virtue signaling, dominance, and aggression). In addition, we examined potential relationships between other dark personality variables (e.g., psychopathy) and activism. In both samples, higher pathological narcissistic grandiosity was related to greater involvement in activism. As expected, virtue signaling was consistently involved in the relationship between pathological narcissistic grandiosity and activism. However, neither dominance nor aggression was related to individuals' involvement in activism. The results did also not consistently support a relationship between higher psychopathy and greater involvement in activism. Overall, the findings help to further specify the DEVP.

Read the full article

---

Article Details

Title:
Further Evidence for the Dark-Ego-Vehicle Principle: Higher Pathological Narcissistic Grandiosity and Virtue Signaling Are Related to Greater Involvement in LGBQ and Gender Identity Activism.

Author(s):
Krispenz A; Bertrams A

Summary:
The research looked at how people with certain dark personality traits, like being very self-focused, might join activism not to help but to feel important. They found that people with high narcissism were more involved in some types of activism, often to show off their virtue, but not in a way that involves being bossy or aggressive. They didn't find a strong link between being more psychopathic and joining activism.

Meta:
pubmed id: 39623238 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

×

Abstract

Sexual health centres (SHCs) in the Netherlands report a surge in gonorrhoea, especially among young women (notably oropharyngeal) and men who have sex with women (MSW) since the second half of 2022. MSW are not routinely oropharyngeal tested, and women only when reporting oral sex. This cross-sectional study aimed to assess oropharyngeal gonorrhoea in MSW and women, and potential underdiagnosis.

Read the full article

---

Article Details

Title:
Oropharyngeal gonorrhoea among heterosexual men and women at a sexual health centre in Rotterdam, the Netherlands, 2023: reservoir for transmission?

Author(s):
Twisk DE; Klaassen C; van Westreenen M; Götz HM

Summary:
There are more cases of gonorrhea in the Netherlands, especially in young women and men who have sex with women. The study looked at throat infections to see if they are being missed because people aren’t always tested.

Meta:
pubmed id: 39613328 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

×

Abstract

Rural, indigenous populations in Mexico face barriers to accessing sexual and reproductive health (SRH) resources and services. Given the lack of information to inform educational materials tailored to the needs of these indigenous communities, we aimed to: (a) quantitatively characterise the SRH awareness and practices among adolescents and adults in a rural, mostly indigenous community in northern Mexico and (b) qualitatively assess community perspectives on an educational pamphlet with SRH information (e.g. contraceptive options). Quantitative data collection occurred in November 2018 and April 2019 using convenience sampling in a community clinic and random sampling for community households. Qualitative data collection occurred in November 2019 via individual interviews and focus group discussions to assess community perspectives about an SRH educational pamphlet developed from quantitative data. Participants in the quantitative phase of our study ( = 217) were a median age of 30 years, 71% were female, and those with children reported having a median of three (range = 1-11). SRH knowledge was low, as were self-reported efforts to obtain contraceptives or testing for HIV/STIs. Most believed that children should learn about SRH by age 10-15 years, and 94% felt that parents should deliver such education. Participants had low knowledge about SRH but high motivation to educate children and adolescents on these topics, indicating potential for SRH campaigns in this community. Health education materials were well-received in the qualitative phase of our study ( = 17 from individual interviews;  = 22 from focus group discussions), and raised interest among community members in learning more about these topics.

Read the full article

---

Article Details

Title:
Sexual and reproductive health awareness and practices among adolescents and adults in a rural farming community in Baja California, Mexico: a quantitative and qualitative cross-sectional study.

Author(s):
Espinosa da Silva C; Santibanez M; Lee AR; Pacheco LS; Brodine S; Fraga MA; Desmarais TB; Crespo NC; Martínez Hernandez J; McKennett M; Garfein RS

Summary:
This study looked at how much people in a rural community in Mexico knew about health related to having babies and staying healthy. People didn't know much about it but wanted to teach their kids. They liked the pamphlet they were shown and wanted to learn more.

Meta:
pubmed id: 39601156 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

×

Abstract

Individuals from all over the world are increasingly using the internet to purchase sex toys and gadgets to enhance their sexual experience and provide variety and excitement to their sexual encounters.

Read the full article

---

Article Details

Title:
Global web trends analysis of sex toys.

Author(s):
Değer MD; Akgul B

Summary:
People around the world are buying more sex toys and gadgets online. They want to make their sexual experiences more exciting and fun.

Meta:
pubmed id: 39600963 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

×

Abstract

Sexual orientation is multidimensional, yet existing studies often only assess one dimension. This study examines multiple dimensions of sexual orientation in a sample of Hispanic adolescents using a latent profile analysis. The study also examines differences in levels of adolescent family functioning (i.e., parent-adolescent communication, parental involvement, family communication) and depressive symptoms by latent profile or subgroup.

Read the full article

---

Article Details

Title:
Sexual Orientation and Adolescent Health Outcomes: A Latent Profile Approach.

Author(s):
Fernandez A; Ochoa LG; Lozano A; Lee TK; Estrada Y; Tapia M; Crespo SDL; Prado G

Summary:
This study looks at different parts of sexual orientation in Hispanic teens and groups them into categories. It also checks how family relationships and feeling sad might be different in each group.

Meta:
pubmed id: 39600542 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

×

Abstract

Biological mechanisms proposed to play a role in the development of sexual orientation in men include hormonal, genetic, and immunological factors. The posited roles of these factors are not mutually exclusive; instead, they may be at play to different degrees in different individuals. Direct measurement of these influences is challenging; thus, researchers rely on putative markers. We collected data on five well-established markers in a sample of gay and heterosexual men. We then (1) compared the levels of those markers in gay and straight men, (2) identified latent profiles based on those markers, and (3) compared the proportions of gay and straight men within the profiles. Gay men reported less gender conformity in childhood, a higher proportion of older brothers, were more right-handed, had more non-heterosexual relatives, and had more feminized digit ratios. Of the six identified profiles, the most numerous, containing a significantly higher proportion of straight men, had masculine digit ratios, masculine behavior in childhood, and was the most right-handed. Proportions of gay and straight men did not differ in the profile with the most feminine digit ratio, the profile associated with the highest proportion of older brothers, and the profile associated with left-handedness. Two remaining profiles, associated with familiality, and the most feminine childhood gender behaviors, consisted predominantly of gay men. The study suggests that further investigations of differences within sexual orientation categories are warranted.

Read the full article

---

Article Details

Title:
Biodevelopmental Correlates of Sexual Orientation in Men: Evidence from a Polish Sample.

Author(s):
Folkierska-Żukowska M; Dragan WŁ

Summary:
Researchers studied differences in gay and straight men using markers like childhood gender behavior, family traits, and physical traits like hand preference. They found that some traits like more older brothers and being right-handed were common in gay men, while others like masculine behavior were more common in straight men. They suggest more studies to understand these differences better.

Meta:
pubmed id: 39585600 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

×

Abstract

Female sex workers (FSW) have a higher burden of sexually transmitted infections (STI), including Neisseria gonorrhoeae (NG), than the non-sex worker population, mainly due to social vulnerability and work-related factors. This large study evaluated the anatomical site distribution of NG, and specifically the occurrence of single-site pharyngeal NG, among FSW visiting Dutch STI clinics in the Netherlands.

Read the full article

---

Article Details

Title:
The occurrence of single-site pharyngeal Neisseria gonorrhoeae among female sex workers in the Netherlands.

Author(s):
Evers YJ; Peters CM; Wolffs PF; Horsten DL; Weijzen C; Dukers-Muijrers NH; Hoebe CJ

Summary:
Female sex workers in the Netherlands have more sexually transmitted infections like Neisseria gonorrhoeae than others because of their job and social issues. This study looked at where these infections happen in the body, especially in the throat, for these workers.

Meta:
pubmed id: 39576209 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

×

Abstract

Background Sexual health is an essential component of health and well-being across the life course. However, sexual health research often focuses on young adults and excludes those aged 45years and older. We organized a national crowdsourcing open call and co-creation events to identify recommendations to improve sexual health service provision for middle-aged and older adults in the United Kingdom (UK). Methods We conducted a crowdsourcing open call and seven co-creation events consisting of workshop-style meetings and one-to-one in-depth interviews. Open call submissions and qualitative data from the co-creation events were analyzed using a thematic approach. A social-ecological framework was used to code deductively, but new codes were allowed to emerge. Thematic categories were organized to describe factors influencing the accessibility and inclusivity of sexual health services for middle-aged and older adults. Results We received 22 submissions in total; of those, 35% of participants reported a disability, 40% of individuals were aged 45-65years, and 6% of submissions came from individuals that identified as gay/lesbian. Five key themes highlighted that improving sexual health services for adults aged 45years and over requires a multi-leveled approach: increase sexual health education, enhance patient and provider relationships, utilize community-led sexual health promotion efforts and delivery of reliable sexual health information, improve inclusive sexual health services, and break down sexual health taboos against adults aged 45+ years. Conclusions Our data suggest that middle-aged and older adults can co-create compelling strategies to enhance sexual health services for middle-aged and older adults in the UK. Further implementation research is needed to pilot these strategies.

Read the full article

---

Article Details

Title:
Community-engaged strategies to improve sexual health services for adults aged 45 and above in the United Kingdom: a qualitative data analysis.

Author(s):
Nunez M; Sakuma Y; Conyers H; Day S; Terris-Prestholt F; Ong JJ; Pan SW; Shakespeare T; Tucker JD; Kpokiri EE; Wu D

Summary:
Sexual health is very important for people of all ages, but many times, older people are left out of the conversation. This study looked at how to make sexual health services better for people over 45 by asking for ideas and talking to lots of different people. They found that education, better relationships with doctors, community help, good information, and stopping unfair ideas about older adults can all help improve sexual health for older people.

Meta:
pubmed id: 39570734 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

×

Abstract

This study employs a queer theoretical framework to explore three student teachers' interpretations and perceptions of two LGBT+ picture books, including their considerations on integrating these texts into classroom pedagogy. The participants are nearing completion of their initial teacher training at a university in the northern part of England. The picture books that are the focus of the study were purposefully selected owing to their exploration of varied queer themes. Discussion is anchored in metaphor of picture books functioning as either "window" or "mirror," depending on children's individual experiences or identities, therefore necessitating acknowledgment of children's potential future queerness. Through semi-structured interviews and thematic analysis, the study uncovers multifaceted perspectives. Participants respond positively to both texts and express interest in incorporating these into their teaching practices. However, they additionally demonstrate awareness of potential limitations and complexities, including negative reactions from stakeholders and promoting heteronormativity. Uncertainty is expressed around navigating these issues within existing curriculum and policy frameworks. The study concludes by advocating for enhanced exploration of these difficulties in initial teacher training and early career stages, if aiming to adequately support these emerging educators in effectively promoting LGBT+ inclusivity in their future classrooms.

Read the full article

---

Article Details

Title:
Navigating Queer Narratives: Student Teachers' Perspectives on LGBT+ Picture Books.

Author(s):
McCormick E

Summary:
This study looks at how three student teachers in England feel about two books that talk about LGBT+ themes. The teachers think the books are good for the classroom, but they are also worried about possible problems like negative reactions. The study suggests that more training is needed to help new teachers include LGBT+ topics in their lessons.

Meta:
pubmed id: 39570066 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

×

Abstract

Erogenous sensation zones (ESZs) elicit sexual pleasure upon stimulation. General ESZ maps exist, but they do not assess internal areas of the body, differentiate between individual structures, or quantify the importance of individual ESZs to sexual pleasure. Maps of aversive sensation zones (ASZs), or bodily areas individuals dislike having touched during sex, have not been described.

Read the full article

---

Article Details

Title:
Anatomic maps of erogenous and aversive sensation zones of the breasts, vulva, and vagina: a questionnaire-based study.

Author(s):
Stelmar J; Zaliznyak M; Sandhu S; Isaacson D; Duralde E; Smith SM; Knudson GA; Garcia MM

Summary:
People have special spots on their bodies that feel good when touched, called erogenous zones, but there are no detailed maps showing these areas inside the body. There are also no maps showing parts of the body that people don't want touched during sex.

Meta:
pubmed id: 39566929 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

×

Abstract

This study aimed to explore the experiences, needs, and interests of queer people who are also neurodivergent, or live with a chronic illness or disability (i.e. IMMI: individuals with multi-minority identities) in Italy and the Netherlands. Five focus groups were conducted in Italy with 22 queer IMMI to identify their most relevant topics regarding and experiences with sex education. Building on the discussion topics of the focus groups, a survey in Italian and English was distributed via snowball sampling. The survey was created to explore the experiences related to sex education in the two countries. The final sample of respondents included 138 (97 Italian, 41 Dutch) queer IMMI. Results indicated that sex education received in both formal (e.g. school) and informal (e.g. family) contexts failed to include information that was sensitive and supportive of queer community's experiences. Participants reported the need to explore more topics addressing the specific needs of different identity intersections. Cross-cultural differences related to the experiences of Italian and Dutch participants were found. Overall, current sex education in Italy and the Netherlands is far from meeting the sexual health needs of queer people living with different intersections. Practical implications are discussed.

Read the full article

---

Article Details

Title:
From Sex Education to Sexualities Education: Navigating the Intersectionality of Queer Communities in Italy and the Netherlands.

Author(s):
Pavanello Decaro S; Gemignani M; Covolan EZ; Aubin SG; Prunas A; Giacomozzi M

Summary:
This study looked at how queer people in Italy and the Netherlands learn about sex, especially if they have other challenges like being neurodivergent or having a chronic illness. The researchers found that the sex education these people received didn't address their unique experiences well. People said they wanted more information that met their needs better.

Meta:
pubmed id: 39565167 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

×

Abstract

Many Africans assume the call for acceptance of Sexual and Gender Minority (SGM) was an imposition from the Western cultures, unknowing that the history of same-sex sexual relationships predated the invasion of the colonial masters in Africa. As such, SGM persons continue to face serious prejudice and discrimination, which has culminated in the infringement of the socio-medical, psychological, and legal rights. The study set to develop a cognitive interpolation (CI) module from the longstanding aboriginal concepts (i.e. Lakiriboto-Ălàgbedemeji) and pilot the efficacy toward prejudiced attitudes of heterosexual peoples in the Yoruba-speaking region of Nigeria. This study utilized an exploratory research design. Sixteen eligible participants aged between 19 years and 47 years ( = 31.05, SD = 08.17) were purposively selected to participate. Participants were screened for eligibility using double-standard criteria. Participants were assigned to two Focus Groups and the retrieved data were content-analyzed. The outcome revealed that heterosexual participants expressed favorable dispositions toward people with diverse sexual orientations and gender identities after (RCA = +93.80%) exposure to CI intervention than before (RCA = -100%) intervention. The researcher concluded that the study provides preliminary evidence that CII is efficacious for cognitive re-orientation of prejudiced attitudes toward SGM persons and communities. Recommendations and limitations were therefore stated.

Read the full article

---

Article Details

Title:
Development of Cognitive Interpolation Intervention from Aboriginal Concepts and the Piloting Effect on Prejudice Attitudes Toward Sexual and Gender Minorities.

Author(s):
Olaseni AO

Summary:
The study shows that people in Nigeria had better attitudes towards those with different sexual orientations and gender identities after learning from a new teaching module. This module was based on old local ideas and helped change prejudiced thoughts. The findings suggest this teaching method can improve understanding and acceptance.

Meta:
pubmed id: 39565160 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

×

Abstract

Increased access to and indications for genetic testing will lead to more women undergoing risk-reducing salpingo-oophorectomy (RRSO), with a potential impact on sexual function.

Read the full article

---

Article Details

Title:
Sexual function following risk-reducing salpingo-oophorectomy: a prospective cohort study.

Author(s):
von Kartaschew ÅE; Hirschberg AL; Gemzell-Danielsson K; Flöter Rådestad A

Summary:
More women might have surgery to lower cancer risk because they get more genetic tests. This could change how they feel about sex.

Meta:
pubmed id: 39564519 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

×

Abstract

A study of topical Sildenafil Cream 3.6% was completed among healthy premenopausal women with female sexual arousal disorder.

Read the full article

---

Article Details

Title:
Impact of age, race, and medication use on efficacy endpoints in a randomized controlled trial of topical sildenafil cream for the treatment of female sexual arousal disorder.

Author(s):
Johnson I; Thurman AR; Cornell KA; Dart C; Hatheway J; Friend DR; Goldstein A

Summary:
A study was done using Sildenafil Cream 3.6% on healthy women who had trouble getting aroused before menopause.

Meta:
pubmed id: 39564518 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

×

Abstract

The feminist approach to sexuality education challenges and changes power dynamics and inequalities embedded within sexuality, while social media serves as a tool for building online communities and raising awareness about feminist issues. Adopting a feminist approach to sexuality education, particularly through social media platforms, remains largely unexplored and underdeveloped. In China, where traditional sex education is often limited and stigmatized, sexuality has been influenced by a complex interplay of traditional gender norms, evolving social attitudes, and state intervention. The aim of this study was to evaluate both sex educators and their online followers' perceptions of the implementation of social media-based sexuality education using a feminist approach in China. Semi-structured online interviews were carried out with 10 educators and 18 young followers, followed by thematic analysis using NVivo. The findings indicated that social media-based sexuality education using a feminist approach might be used to help disrupt oppressive norms about gender and sexuality and foster a positive attitude toward women's sexuality. Chinese online sex educators strategically avoided the term "feminism" and creatively evaded censorship and spread their messages in alignment with government policies while advocating for gender equality. However, participants also highlighted the existence of barriers, including internal conflicts, gender imbalances, social stigmatization, and political constraints, which needed to be addressed in order to effectively implement this approach.

Read the full article

---

Article Details

Title:
Perspectives of Young People on Social Media-Based Sexuality Education Using a Feminist Approach in China: A Qualitative Study.

Author(s):
Ma Y; Chen SS; Eleanor H; Wong WCW

Summary:
This study looked at how people in China use social media to teach about sexuality in a way that supports gender equality. It found that educators can creatively share their messages while following rules, but there are still challenges like people misunderstanding feminism and government restrictions.

Meta:
pubmed id: 39557778 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

×

Abstract

Human papillomavirus (HPV) can cause cervical cancer, a leading cause of female cancer mortality in South Africa and worldwide. We assessed the burden of, and factors associated with, HPV infection using a molecular assay and cervical cytology among women living with HIV (WLHIV) in South Africa.

Read the full article

---

Article Details

Title:
High burden of human papillomavirus and premalignant cervical lesions among women starting HIV treatment in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.

Author(s):
Naicker N; Osman F; Naidoo K; Bodley N; Mbambo N; Madlala S; Mhlongo T; Mbatha N; Maphumulo A; Munatsi P; Radebe P; Liebenberg L; Dorward J; Drain PK; Garrett N

Summary:
HPV can cause cervical cancer, which is a big problem for women in South Africa and around the world. This study looked at how common the virus is and what factors are related to it in women with HIV in South Africa.

Meta:
pubmed id: 39557497 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

×

Abstract

In this study, we aimed to map theories and constructs used in psychological research to address LGBTQI and Christian belonging. Through the scoping review method aligned with PRISMA-Extension for Scoping Reviews, we revised 150 studies from the psychological field between 2012 and 2022. We found conflict/negative theories, a turning point from negative to increasingly positive frameworks, exclusively positive perspectives, and broader and challenging theories. There is a gradual shift from conflict/negative perspectives to include positive and broader theories. These findings are critical to base and expand new approaches regarding LGBTQI issues and Christianity in future research.

Read the full article

---

Article Details

Title:
Being Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans, Queer, or Intersex (LGBTQI) and Christian: A Scoping Review of Theories and Constructs in Psychological Research.

Author(s):
Rêgo-Moreira C; Rocha-Silva T; Rodrigues L; Nogueira C

Summary:
The researchers looked at many studies to see how people talk about LGBTQI and Christian belonging. They found that people used to focus on the bad parts but are now starting to see more good and wider views. This change can help us understand these issues better in the future.

Meta:
pubmed id: 39552628 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

×

Abstract

Our study aimed to assess perspectives of the Thai transgender adults toward three diagnostic criteria: 1) transsexualism (the World Health Organisation's International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems, tenth revision; ICD-10), 2) gender incongruence (the International Classification of Diseases, eleventh revision; ICD-11), and 3) gender dysphoria (the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, fifth edition; DSM-5). We also gathered comments and suggestions on these criteria for future refinement, especially specific to Thai sociocultural contexts.

Read the full article

---

Article Details

Title:
Perspectives of Thai Transgender Adults on Diagnostic Criteria for Transsexualism, Gender Incongruence, and Gender Dysphoria.

Author(s):
Bumphenkiatikul T; Hataiyusuk S; Suwan A; Panyakhamlerd K; Wainipitapong S

Summary:
The study asked Thai transgender adults what they thought about three different ways doctors diagnose gender issues. They also wanted to hear ideas on how to make these rules better for people in Thailand.

Meta:
pubmed id: 39552626 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

×

Abstract

We tested whether social activities and interactions as part of a condom campaign strengthened young adults' condom-use intentions and normative perceptions of condoms compared to simple exposure to campaign information.

Read the full article

---

Article Details

Title:
Let's Talk About Condoms: Social Engagement in a Sexual Health Intervention Targeting Young Adults in Denmark.

Author(s):
Bohr M; Koudenburg N

Summary:
The research looked at whether taking part in social activities about condoms helped young adults want to use them more and have better thoughts about them, compared to just seeing the campaign information.

Meta:
pubmed id: 39552624 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

×

Abstract

There has been growing recognition of the need to address the sexual and reproductive health (SRH) needs of men and boys, including a need for more explicit guidance in domestic health policy and plans. This paper reports on a policy analysis, covering five East and Southern African countries, and discusses the extent and ways in which male clinical and non-clinical needs, and their roles in SRH are currently being reflected. It draws attention to the policy discourse, trends, and gaps in including men in the region as clients, partners and change agents to inform a way forward.

Read the full article

---

Article Details

Title:
Are We Getting Any Closer to Including Men and Boys in Sexual and Reproductive Health? A Multi-Country Policy Analysis on Guidance to Action in East and Southern Africa.

Author(s):
Aantjes CJ; Govender K

Summary:
More attention is needed for the health needs of men and boys in East and Southern Africa. This research looks at how men are included in health policies and suggests ways to improve this.

Meta:
pubmed id: 39552622 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

×

Abstract

We explored participants' experiences in a randomized controlled trial that evaluated the Home-Based Intervention Strategy (HIS-UK) to improve male condom use skills/experiences.

Read the full article

---

Article Details

Title:
Evaluating the Home-Based Intervention Study (HIS-UK) to Improve Condom Use Skills and Experience: A Qualitative Study.

Author(s):
Bedford R; Towler L; Stone N; Graham CA

Summary:
Researchers studied how people felt about a program called HIS-UK that helps them use condoms better at home. They wanted to see if this program made a difference in using condoms correctly.

Meta:
pubmed id: 39552619 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

×

Abstract

There is a lack of knowledge in Swedish healthcare regarding correlations of exposure to intimate partner violence (IPV) from before to during pregnancy, and associated factors as well as pregnant women's perceptions related to screening for IPV in healthcare settings. The frequency of women exposed to IPV during pregnancy is difficult to establish as it is reported at different rates across different studies, depending on the definitions and screening strategies used.

Read the full article

---

Article Details

Title:
I had to tell to survive"- a cross-sectional study on exposure to intimate partner violence in pregnant women and the importance of screening.

Author(s):
Eikemo R; Elvin-Nowak Y; Åhlund S; Vikström A; Nyman V; Jonas W; Barimani M

Summary:
Many people in Swedish healthcare don't know how often pregnant women experience partner violence or what might cause it. Studies show different results about how much it happens, and screening methods matter a lot.

Meta:
pubmed id: 39550811 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

×

Abstract

Sexual health communication between general practitioners (GPs) and individuals with chronic diseases is well documented as an important component of sexual well-being. However, a notable gap exists in understanding factors that contribute to sexual health communication in the endometriosis context. Endometriosis-related research has focused on the assessment of sexual functioning and its role in influencing health-related quality of life, with a limited understanding of the management of sexual well-being in primary healthcare settings.

Read the full article

---

Article Details

Title:
"No doctor ever asked me…so I thought it wasn't a valid concern": endometriosis patients' perspectives of barriers and facilitators to sexual health communication in general practice.

Author(s):
Davenport RA; Mills J; McHardy H; Lores T; Sherman K; Misajon R; Van Niekerk L

Summary:
The research says it's important for doctors to talk about sexual health with patients who have long-term illnesses. There isn't enough information about how this communication works for people with endometriosis.

Meta:
pubmed id: 39545356 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

×

Abstract

Disparities in adolescent sexual and reproductive health (SRH) outcomes in rural areas of the USA persist as a concern in achieving health equity for youth. A growing body of literature recognises that improving adolescents' health necessitates systems thinking to address the culture and environment in which adolescents live. This paper uses systems thinking to identify leverage points to improve adolescent SRH in rural Latino communities in California. We conducted focus group discussions with 22 young people and interviewed 10 adult stakeholders to centre the perspectives of youth and youth-serving professionals. Transcripts were coded and analysed using systems thinking. Five themes were developed: (1) community and cultural norms can be a source of both support and stigma for youth; (2) families are key to supporting health education and services; (3) rural schools provide a central hub for programme delivery; (4) community-based organisations can work to serve rural youth, but limited resources and transport are challenges; and (5) youth face considerable barriers accessing SRH services in their communities. Using systems thinking to identify leverage points and gaps in interactions between system components influencing youth can aid in the development of more holistic and culturally responsive approaches for rural youth SRH.

Read the full article

---

Article Details

Title:
Using systems thinking to leverage adolescent sexual and reproductive health in rural Latino communities.

Author(s):
Mazur A; Berglas NF; Decker MJ

Summary:
Researchers explored how to improve health for young people in rural Latino communities in California. They talked to youth and adults to find ways to help, discovering that family, schools, and community support are important. They found challenges like stigma and limited resources, but believe understanding these issues can make health services better for young people.

Meta:
pubmed id: 39543984 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

×

Abstract

People with intellectual disability face a variety of epistemic injustices-systems of knowledge and educational inequality-related to their access to sex education and perceptions of their sexuality. Sex educators are in a position to address these injustices; however, they may not be fully aware of their own epistemic ethics. Furthermore, there is little theoretical understanding of how sex educators provide instruction within an environment that exhibits hostility toward the sexual expression of those with intellectual disability. This grounded theory study of interviews with 58 people who taught sex education to people with intellectual disability sought to understand the role of educators in perpetuating and resisting epistemic injustice by utilizing sex education to either facilitate or restrict the sexual expression of people with disabilities. We identified four micro-contexts: centralizing capacity to consent, emphasizing risk, desexualizing (through) sex education, and acknowledging gender identity. In each micro-context, we explore mechanisms of how educators were either allied in support of autonomy (person-centered values, expertise, access to curricular resources, self-advocates as teachers and partners, subversiveness, and de-problematizing normative sexual behavior) or reified sexual stigmas (fear of sexual abuse and sexual perpetration, conscripting to asexuality, the paternalistic service system, and complex ethical dilemmas) in the context of hostility to sex education and sexual expression. These findings have implications for promoting prosocial sexual expression and access to sex education for people with intellectual disability.

Read the full article

---

Article Details

Title:
Theorizing the Role of Sex Educators in the Resistance and Reification of Epistemic Injustices Related to the Sexual Expression of People with Intellectual Disability.

Author(s):
Curtiss SL; Stoffers M

Summary:
The study looked at how teachers give sex education to people with intellectual disabilities. It found that some teachers help them learn about their sexuality, while others don't, often because of fear and misunderstanding. The research shows ways to help people understand and express their sexuality better.

Meta:
pubmed id: 39543052 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

×

Abstract

Expanding delivery of oral pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) to community pharmacies could improve access, aligning well with the UK government's goals to eliminate new HIV acquisitions by 2030. Using the Capability, Opportunity, Motivation, Behaviour (COM-B) model for behaviour change, the aim of this research was to explore the barriers and facilitators of community pharmacy PrEP delivery, for pharmacists and community members.

Read the full article

---

Article Details

Title:
Qualitative exploration of the barriers and facilitators to community pharmacy PrEP delivery for UK pharmacists and underserved community members using the COM-B model of behaviour change.

Author(s):
Harrison C; Family H; Kesten J; Denford S; Scott J; Sabin C; Copping J; Harryman L; Cochrane S; Saunders J; Hamilton-Shaw R; Horwood J

Summary:
This research looked at how selling HIV prevention medicine at local pharmacies could help stop the spread of HIV. It also studied what makes it easy or hard for pharmacists and community members to do this.

Meta:
pubmed id: 39542715 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

×

Abstract

Premature ejaculation (PE), affecting approximate 5%, has an unclear pathogenesis, limited treatment efficacy, and a lack of effective diagnostic methods.

Read the full article

---

Article Details

Title:
A diagnostic study on the application of segmental somatosensory evoked potential examination to acquired premature ejaculation.

Author(s):
Zhao Y; Chen M; Li J; Li Z; Xu Z; Liao Z; Xu K; Huang X

Summary:
Premature ejaculation (PE) is a condition that affects about 5% of people. Scientists don't fully understand why it happens, and there aren't many ways to diagnose or treat it effectively.

Meta:
pubmed id: 39539763 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

×

Abstract

In 2023 the editors of Perspectives on Sexual and Reproductive Health issued a special call for papers related to the economics of abortion. Ten of those submissions are included in this volume and address critical issues including: (1) the role Medicaid continues to play in abortion access and how changes in state Medicaid coverage of abortion have expanded and restricted abortion care use; (2) how low-income individuals without insurance coverage for abortion utilize resources from abortion funds and through crowdsourcing platforms; (3) how the price of medication abortion has decreased with the availability of telemedicine medication abortion and how providers of that service are making efforts to reduce those prices even further; and (4) how legally restricting abortion access has significant economic implications for state economies and the US society as a whole. In this introduction, I review the general scope of prior research on the economics of abortion in the US as it relates to stigma-induced silences, abortion seekers, abortion providers, and abortion assistance organizations. I then highlight the new contributions made by the articles contained in this special issue.

Read the full article

---

Article Details

Title:
Making sense of the economics of abortion in the United States.

Author(s):
Weitz TA

Summary:
This research paper talks about different ways money and abortion are connected. It looks at how Medicaid helps people get abortions, how people raise money for abortions without insurance, how telemedicine is making abortions cheaper, and how laws that make it hard to get an abortion can affect the economy.

Meta:
pubmed id: 39537337 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

×

Abstract

Previous research has indicated that internet-based Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) can reduce pain during intercourse and increase pain acceptance in individuals with provoked vulvodynia, but the factors associated with treatment outcomes remain unknown.

Read the full article

---

Article Details

Title:
Internet-based treatment for provoked vulvodynia: factors associated with treatment outcomes.

Author(s):
Hess Engström A; Flink I; Kero V; Bohm-Starke N; Skalkidou A

Summary:
Internet-based therapy can help reduce pain during intercourse and help people accept their pain more when they have a condition called provoked vulvodynia. However, scientists are still trying to figure out what helps make these treatments successful.

Meta:
pubmed id: 39537187 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

×

Abstract

Sexual health and well-being are critical for people across all age groups. However, older adults are neglected in sexual health research, programs, and policies. This editorial is a call to action for greater attention to the sexual health of older adults. We welcome all related research on this topic, but are particularly interested in manuscripts related to sexual functioning and co-morbidities, menopause and related topics, sexual health service utilization, research that links sexual activity and health, perspectives from low and middle-income countries, and community-engaged research on sexual health among older adults.

Read the full article

---

Article Details

Title:
Sexual health in an aging world: a global call to action for more resilient services for older and disabled adults.

Author(s):
Randazzo S; Day S; Kritzer I; Zou H; Conyers H; Sakuma Y; Wu D; Kpokiri EE; Gonsalves L; Tucker JD

Summary:
The abstract talks about the importance of sexual health for everyone, even older adults. It asks for more studies and attention on the sexual health of older people, including topics like menopause and how sexual health services are used.

Meta:
pubmed id: 39531374 Indexed on February 9th, 2025