Article Feed - This Week in Sexual Health

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Abstract

Multisensory birthing rooms are specially designed and integrate elements such as sound, light, and visual stimuli to create an immersive atmosphere.

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Article Details

Title:
Exploring midwives' perceptions of the multisensory birthing room work environment: A qualitative analysis.

Author(s):
Eidhammer A; Melgaard D; Madsen LS; Glavind J; Lundgaard SR; Højlund MK

Summary:
Special birthing rooms use sounds, lights, and pictures to make a calming and special place for moms having babies.

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pubmed id: 39740579 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

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Abstract

From the evolutionary perspective, maintaining a committed relationship is beneficial for reproductive success but involves risks such as losing a partner or infidelity. People typically prefer partners with similar mate value (MV) to avoid rejection. However, when a mate value discrepancy (MVD) arises, the partner with lower MV might employ mate retention strategies to maintain the relationship. This study investigated whether men with lower MV compared to their female partners used cunnilingus more often and whether this effect was mediated by their motivation to satisfy the partner. Additionally, it tested the moderating role of men's perceived vulnerability to disease (PVD), predicting that men less concerned about disease would show a stronger link between MVD and cunnilingus frequency, given the health risks associated with oral sex. Data from 540 men in committed heterosexual relationships confirmed that a higher MVD-where the man's MV was lower than his partner's-led to more frequent cunnilingus, and this relationship was mediated by a greater motivation to sexually satisfy the partner. However, the moderating role of PVD was not confirmed. We explore the evolutionary perspective that men may perform oral sex on their partners as a mate retention strategy. This behavior potentially serves as a benefit-provisioning mechanism, compensating for discrepancies in mate value.

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Title:
Oral Sex May Serve as Low Mate Value Compensation Among Men: Evidence from a Pre-registered Study.

Author(s):
Frankowska N; Szymkow A; Galbarczyk A

Summary:
The study looked at why some men in relationships do a lot of nice things, like giving their partner oral sex, when they feel their partner is "out of their league." They found that men did this more if they were trying to make their partner happy, even though doing this could have some health risks. However, being worried about getting sick did not change this behavior.

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pubmed id: 39725782 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

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Abstract

Prior correlational studies have shown that belief in the biological theory of sexual orientation (BTSO) is associated with more positive attitudes toward homosexuality. However, individuals often interpret scientific evidence in ways that align with their pre-existing beliefs and motivations. This research experimentally investigated whether gender and religiosity moderate heterosexual individuals' responses to scientific evidence either supporting or refuting BTSO. In two studies, heterosexual men (Study 1, N = 118) and both men and women (Study 2, N = 280) reported their religiosity and were exposed to evidence suggesting either biological differences or similarities between heterosexual and gay individuals. Results showed that, in the biological differences condition, heterosexual women and less religious men were more likely to perceive homosexuality as a natural biological variation and expressed more positive attitudes toward it. In contrast, more religious men interpreted the same evidence as indicating a biological anomaly in gay individuals and displayed more negative attitudes toward homosexuality.

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Title:
Perceived Biological Bases of Sexual Orientation and Sexual Prejudice: The Moderating Role of Gender and Religious Beliefs.

Author(s):
Falomir-Pichastor JM; Confino D; Anderson JR; Koc Y

Summary:
The study looked at whether men and women with different levels of religious beliefs changed their attitudes about homosexuality after seeing scientific evidence about its causes. It found that women and less religious men were more likely to see homosexuality positively when told it is a natural biological variation, while more religious men saw it negatively, thinking it was a biological problem.

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pubmed id: 39715934 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

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Abstract

Bisexual women are an at-risk population for hazardous drinking. One factor contributing to their risk is binegativity (discrimination from heterosexual and lesbian/gay communities). Research has found a positive association between binegativity and alcohol use, but few studies have explored protective factors (bisexual identity affirmation, connectedness to bisexual community) that may buffer this relationship. Consequently, we examined the impact of bisexual identity and connectedness on the association between binegativity and alcohol use and problems. Participants were 225 self-identified young bisexual women 18 to 30 years old ( = 22.77, = 3.45) who reported heavy drinking at least once in the past month. Participants completed an online survey about their experiences of binegativity, alcohol use and problems, bisexual identity, and connectedness to the bisexual community. Results revealed that binegativity was positively associated with connectedness, but not bisexual identity. Binegativity was positively associated with alcohol use and alcohol problems, but moderation analyses revealed that neither identity nor connectedness impacted these associations. Thus, although binegativity was linked to greater alcohol use and problems, bisexual identity and connectedness did not serve as protective factors. It may be that bisexual women who are more "out" have a stronger connection to the bisexual community. However, they may experience greater external stigma within the sexual minoritized community due to their sexual attractions and relationships with both men and women. Future research is needed to identify other protective factors for the bisexual community.

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Title:
An Examination of Protective Factors for Bisexual Stigma and Alcohol Use among Heavy Drinking Young Bisexual Women.

Author(s):
Rothstein MC; Schulz CT; Todaro SM; Stamates AL; Ehlke SJ; Kelley ML

Summary:
The study looked at young bisexual women and how feeling rejected by others relates to their drinking. They found that being connected to the bisexual community didn't help reduce drinking, even though more rejection was related to more drinking problems. More research is needed to find ways to help the bisexual community with these issues.

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pubmed id: 39712993 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

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Abstract

Emotional labor, the act of suppressing or altering one's feelings to enhance another person's well-being, is predominantly performed by women, especially within intimate relationships. Despite its impact on well-being, research on its role in sexuality remains limited. We developed the Women's Sexual Emotional Labor Assessment (WOSELA), a 12-item scale based on themes identified by past qualitative studies. To ensure its reliability and validity, we conducted three studies with women partnered with men, as well as heterosexual single women from the UK and the USA (N = 831). Drawing on exploratory factor analysis in Study 1, four subscales were identified: faking orgasm, performing desire, tolerating discomfort or pain, and partner-referenced sexual satisfaction. Confirmatory factor analyses in Study 2 (pre-registered) provided support for the WOSELA in its current form. In Study 3 (pre-registered), we demonstrated the validity of the WOSELA by establishing significant negative correlations with sexual agency, sexual communication, and sexual pleasure. Our results further show that the WOSELA was not significantly related to positive-partner-oriented sexual responsiveness. The WOSELA offers a unique tool to explore the role of emotional labor in sustaining the pleasure gap, as well as in broader power dynamics within intimate relationships and its impact on women's well-being.

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Article Details

Title:
The Intimate and Sexual Costs of Emotional Labor: The Development of the Women's Sexual Emotional Labor Assessment.

Author(s):
Oschatz T; Piemonte JL; Klein V

Summary:
Researchers created a new tool called WOSELA to study how women change their feelings to improve others' happiness in relationships. They tested it with many women, finding it helps understand feelings like faking happiness in sex. This tool can help learn more about women's experiences and well-being in relationships.

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pubmed id: 39702613 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

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Abstract

Despite the high prevalence of sexual objectification, the understanding of gender differences in its victimization and perpetration remains limited. We bridged victim and perpetrator perspectives, expecting that objectification victimization positively predicts perpetration, and investigated the mediating role of social dominance orientation (SDO), and gender and perceived social mobility as moderators. Participants (valid N = 530) completed measures of sexual objectification victimization, perceived social mobility, SDO, and sexual objectification perpetration. We found that sexual objectification victimization predicted its perpetration, and that this relationship was stronger among men than women. SDO partially mediated the moderation effect of gender, whereby mediation through SDO was significant among men, but not significant among women. Moreover, a three-way interaction between sexual objectification victimization, gender, and perceived social mobility predicted SDO and carried subsequent implications for sexual objectification perpetration. Despite the mediation effect through SDO not achieving significance among women, it was significantly moderated by perceived social mobility. Specifically, the indirect effect among women with high perceived social mobility was significantly different than that among women with low perceived social mobility, but not significantly different than that among men, whose results were not influenced by perceived social mobility. This study provides a more nuanced understanding of gender in sexual objectification-specifically that gender differences may be related to social power and differences in socialization. The findings offer implications for the development of theories and clinical programs for coping with objectification victimization and preventing perpetration.

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Article Details

Title:
Gendered Cycles of Sexual Objectification: The Roles of Social Dominance Orientation and Perceived Social Mobility.

Author(s):
Chan RSW; Poon KT

Summary:
The study looked at how being a victim of sexual objectification can lead someone to objectify others, and how this is different for men and women. It found that this behavior is stronger in men and is influenced by their feelings about social power. The study helps us understand gender differences in objectification and can improve ways to help people who are affected by it.

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pubmed id: 39702612 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

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Abstract

This article conceptualises how masculinity and masculine ideals are played out in relation to prostate cancer treatment and its side-effects, offering a heuristic and theoretical perspective with which to make sense of the complex interrelationship between lived gendered bodies and social structures. With the support of three case studies of older men treated for prostate cancer, the article explores how the concept of hegemonic masculinity can be used to analyse the ill and ageing body. A phenomenologically informed approach to the body, which illustrates how masculinity is lived and experienced through certain body schemas, is used. The three case studies show variation in how masculinity is enacted and embodied, illustrating actions to (1) restore and maintain masculinity through phallic experience; (2) reconstruct masculinity by connecting bodily experience to notions of the ageing and a less potent body; and (3) to counter narrowly defined notions of masculinity by dissociating or decoupling masculinity from ideals of potency and performance. With the help of the case studies, the strategies identified, and the fluidity and dynamism of the concept of hegemonic masculinity, findings reveal how inequalities between men and women are produced and maintained, in and through bodily experience, and diverse body schemas.

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Article Details

Title:
Theorising masculinity, ageing, and the lived body: the case of prostate cancer.

Author(s):
Andreasson J; Johansson T

Summary:
The article looks at how older men with prostate cancer deal with ideas about being "manly" while handling the effects of their illness. It uses stories of three men to show different ways they express being masculine, like trying to stay strong, adjusting to changes, or changing what it means to be a man. These stories help us understand how being male is felt and how it can lead to unequal treatment between men and women.

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pubmed id: 39699126 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

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Abstract

Religious and moral exemptions have burgeoned since the U.S. Supreme Court affirmed marriage equality in 2015. These laws allow individuals to refuse services based on religious or moral beliefs. LGBTQIA+ advocates have raised concerns regarding exemptions to deny care to LGBTQIA+ individuals with heightened health needs. Research suggests that LGBTQIA+ individuals have higher anticipated needs for nursing home care; however, a gap in empirical research exists on how nursing home staff understand religious exemptions in the context of their caregiving. This study, thus, employs a qualitative case approach to examine this question: How do nursing home staff make sense of staff refusal to provide care to LGBTQIA+ residents because of religious or moral beliefs? Data includes semi-structured interviews of nursing home staff ( = 90) and was analyzed with thematic analysis. While dominant narratives present religious exemptions as a conflict between religious liberty and equality, staff employed a variety of cultural frames to reconcile cultural discord and achieve social coherence about whether to accommodate a colleague who refused care to an LGBTQIA+ resident. Cultural frames included individual rights, individual religious belief, fairness, job obligations, resident safety and comfort, and legal compliance.

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Article Details

Title:
Caregiving for LGBTQIA+ Older Adults: Religious Exemptions and Cultural Discord in Long-Term Care.

Author(s):
Perone AK

Summary:
The study looks at how nursing home workers feel about not helping LGBTQIA+ people because of religious or moral beliefs. Interviews with 90 workers showed they use different ideas like fairness and safety to decide what to do in these situations.

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pubmed id: 39688035 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

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Abstract

People use cues of facial gender typicality when making sexual orientation judgements, where gender typical faces (masculine men and feminine women) are more likely to be judged as heterosexual and gender atypical faces (feminine men and masculine women) are judged as non-heterosexual. Individual differences in the belief of associated stereotypes have been shown to influence how these stereotypes are used to make social judgments of others; therefore, across two studies, we tested whether the strength of beliefs in gender stereotypes impacted how facial gender typicality cues were used when making sexual orientation judgements. In both Study 1 and 2 (n = 283 and 219, respectively), participants made sexual orientation judgements of 80 faces (40 male, 40 female) that varied in gender typicality and completed a measure of belief in gender stereotypes. In Study 2, participants also completed a sexual prejudice measure. In line with predictions, both studies found that the strength in belief of gender stereotypes significantly moderated the use of facial gender typicality cues when making sexual orientation judgements. Participants with a greater belief in gender stereotypes were more likely to judge a face as heterosexual as gender typicality increased. In Study 2, the association between sexual prejudice and use of gender typicality cues was fully mediated by beliefs in gender role stereotypes. These results highlight the importance of considering individual differences of the perceiver and how they can interact with cues from a target, particularly when making sexual orientation judgements.

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Article Details

Title:
Belief in Gender Role Stereotypes Moderates the Use of Gender Typicality Cues when Making Sexual Orientation Judgements from Faces.

Author(s):
De La Mare JK; Taylor MG; Lee AJ

Summary:
The research found that people use how "typical" a face looks for its gender to decide if someone might be straight or not. Believing more strongly in gender stereotypes made people more likely to think typical-looking faces were straight.

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pubmed id: 39674866 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

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Abstract

Two main ways to enter a marriage are through free choice and through an arrangement between families, known as an arranged marriage. In this study, we compared differences in three dimensions of love (Intimacy, Passion, and Commitment) between spouses in love-based marriages and arranged marriages among five non-Western societies: Bhotiya from the Himalayas, Igbo from Nigeria, Kimeru from Kenya, Meru from Tanzania, and Tsimane' from Bolivia. When considering all data gathered from the five cultures, free choice and arranged marriages did not differ significantly in average love scores. However, within cultures, some differences did emerge between free choice and arranged marriages, such as spouses from free choice marriages from Bhotiya and Tsimane' culture showing higher levels of Intimacy than those from arranged marriages. However, in the Bhotiya, this difference was only evident in marriages lasting longer than 10 years. Moreover, spouses from free choice marriages from Bhotiya reported higher levels of passion, while spouses from free choice marriages from Tsimane' reported higher levels of commitment than individuals from arranged marriages. Conversely, wives from arranged marriages from Meru culture from Tanzania reported higher levels of Intimacy and Passion as compared to wives from free choice marriages. In Kimeru and Igbo, no significant differences were found. These results contribute to the growing body of literature on the relationship between culture, love, and marriage. Our data also challenge the Western perception that arranged marriages lack love.

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Article Details

Title:
Love Components in Free-Choice and Arranged Marriages Among Five Non-Western Populations From Africa, Amazonia, and Himalayas.

Author(s):
Sorokowski P; Groyecka-Bernard A; Kowal M; Butovskaya M; Stefanczyk MM; Huanca T; Kumar A; Manral U; Odo OM; Onyishi IE; Jędryczka W

Summary:
The study looked at love in two types of marriages: those chosen by people and those arranged by families. In different cultures, some differences were noticed, like in the Bhotiya and Tsimane', where marriages chosen by the couple sometimes had more love, while in the Meru culture, arranged marriages had more love. The research helps us understand how love can be different in arranged marriages and challenges the idea that arranged marriages don't have love.

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pubmed id: 39671123 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

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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.

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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.

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pubmed id: 39668741 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

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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.

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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.

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pubmed id: 39652438 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

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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. .

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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.

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pubmed id: 39651960 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

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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.

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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.

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pubmed id: 39648714 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

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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.

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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.

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pubmed id: 39648708 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

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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.

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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.

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pubmed id: 39636717 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

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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.

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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.

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pubmed id: 39628042 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

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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.

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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.

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pubmed id: 39626109 Indexed on February 9th, 2025

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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.

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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

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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.

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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

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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.

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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

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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.

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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

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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.

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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

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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.

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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

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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.

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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

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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.

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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

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