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Purpose: National practice guidelines encourage providers address sexual and reproductive health (SRH) as part of all clinical encounters with adolescents. Yet, no studies provide nationally representative estimates of how frequently adolescents are screened., Methods: Data were adolescent participants (aged 14-17 years; N = 826) in the 2018 National Survey of Sexual Health and Behavior, an online, nationally representative study of sexual health experiences of people in the U.S. SRH variables were: (all no/yes) pregnancy prevention, sexual identity, STD/HIV prevention, sexual difficulties, sexually transmitted infections testing, and sexual activity. We used descriptive statistics and weighted logistic regression (Stata 16.0; all p < .05) to examine differences in the odds of SRH discussion with provider by sexual identity, age, gender, and race/ethnicity., Results: The coverage of SRH topics was poor. The most common topic was asking about sexual activity (52.9%), and the least common was being offered a sexually transmitted infection test (21.7%). An adolescent's sexual identity, race/ethnicity, and age affected the odds of topic screening., Conclusions: Health care providers appear to both infrequently and inconsistently address key SRH topics during encounters with young people. Targeted interventions should focus on strengthening the regularity and depth of clinicians' SRH conversations regardless of adolescent demographic or history., (Copyright © 2020 Society for Adolescent Health and Medicine. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

The field of HIV/STI prevention has primarily focused on gay men (or "men who have sex with men" [MSM] as a broad category) with limited attention to bisexual men in particular. Although bisexual men are also at increased risk for HIV and other STI, they are less likely to utilize HIV/STI prevention services than gay men, and very few interventions have been developed to address their unique needs. Further, while biomedical advances are changing the field of HIV prevention, bisexual men are also less likely to use biomedical HIV prevention strategies (e.g., pre-exposure prophylaxis [PrEP]) than gay men. In an effort to advance research on bisexual men and their sexual health needs, the goals of this commentary are: (1) to review the empirical literature on the prevalence of HIV/STI among bisexual men, the few existing HIV/STI prevention interventions developed for bisexual men, and the use of biomedical HIV prevention among bisexual men; (2) to describe the ways in which the field of HIV/STI prevention has largely overlooked bisexual men as a population in need of targeted services; and (3) to discuss how researchers can better address the sexual health needs of bisexual men in the age of biomedical HIV prevention.

Using data from 78 sexting-experienced adolescents from the 2015 National Survey of Sexual Health and Behavior, we describe sexting frequency, sexting partners, sexual relationships with such partners, and characteristics associated with sexting. Most (59.2%) respondents sexted at most monthly, usually with romantic partners (62.0%). About 41% of sexting-experienced adolescents did not usually have sexual relationships with sexting partners, 36.6% usually sexted after starting a sexual relationship, and 16.8% reported that their sexting typically preceded sexual relationships. Younger adolescents sexted more frequently. Those without vaginal sex/anal sex experience, or prior romantic experience, were more likely to have sexted a non-romantic/sexual partner.

People in open and other consensually nonmonogamous partnerships have been historically underserved by researchers and providers. Many studies group such partnerships together with nonconsensual nonmonogamy (NCNM) under the banner of "concurrent sexual partnerships." Discrimination from service providers poses a substantial barrier to care. Responding to such concerns, this investigation explored sociodemographic correlates with open relationships and associations between relationship structure and sexual risk, HIV/STI testing, and relationship satisfaction in a nationally representative probability sample. Data were drawn from the 2012 National Survey of Sexual Health and Behavior (n = 2270). We used multinomial logistic regression to identify correlates with relationship structure, and linear and logistic regression to investigate associations between relationship structure and testing, condom use, and relationship satisfaction. Eighty-nine percent of participants reported monogamy, 4% reported open relationships, and 8% reported NCNM. Males, gay/lesbian individuals, bisexual individuals, and those who identified as "Other, Non-Hispanic" were more likely to report open relationships. Bisexual individuals and Black, Non-Hispanic participants were more likely to report NCNM; older participants were less likely to do so. Participants in open relationships reported more frequent condom use for anal intercourse and lower relationship satisfaction than monogamous participants. NCNM participants reported more HIV testing and lower satisfaction. Identities, experiences, and behaviors within open and other consensually nonmonogamous populations should be regarded as unique and diverse, rather than conflated with those common to other relationship structures. There is a need for greater awareness of diverse relationship structures among researchers and providers, and incorporation of related content into educational programming.

This study assessed the prevalence of sexual behaviors among a nationally representative sample of Latino men and women in the United States (US) (N = 432) including Spanish language data collection. Prior studies of sexual health among US Latinos have consisted of convenience samples, and focused mainly on assessing risk behaviors. We consider a broader range of sexual behaviors, subjective sexual experiences (e.g. pleasure and arousal), and STI testing behaviors. Analyses by language dominance and gender indicate a higher variability in sexual behaviors for English-dominant participants and a link between overall STI testing to regular medical examinations, especially women. Higher rates of pleasure, orgasms and arousal was reported by Spanish-dominant men and women, relative to the English-dominant group. Results represent a nuanced examination of internal differentiation among US Latinos and provides applicable data for reducing sexual health disparities in this population.

Objective To examine the prevalence of student utilization of campus sexual health resources and their association with sexually transmitted infection (STI) testing. Participants: Undergraduate students (n = 7020) at a large Midwestern university completed a confidential online survey in 2015. Methods: A probability-based sample of undergraduate students completed a cross-sectional online survey. Results: Commonly accessed sexual health resources were student orientation activities about sexual assault or rape, sexuality/gender classes, gender and sexual orientation panels, class panels on sexual assault, birth control and STI presentations, and having joined a sexuality-related student organization. Campus sexual health resource utilization was significantly associated with greater STI testing since college. Gender, race, class level, enrollment status, sexual orientation, timing of last sexual event, and perceived STI risk were significantly associated with STI testing in college. Conclusions: Campus sexual health resources play an important role in student sexual health promotion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective Most studies on agreeing to unwanted sex have assessed sexual encounters between people who have had sex before. Thus, we examined instances of sexual compliance with a novel sexual partner. Participants: A probability sample of college students at a university in the Midwest United States (N = 7,112). Methods: Participants completed an online survey based on measures from the National Survey of Sexual Health and Behavior. Results: Only 2.5% (n = 179) agreed to unwanted sexual activity at their most recent sexual encounter. People who were sexually compliant with a novel sexual partner frequently did so due to their own alcohol intoxication. Further, sexual compliance with novel sexual partners was less frequently associated with affectionate sexual behaviors or orgasm. Conclusions: Our initial findings regarding the effect of sexual precedent on sexual compliance warrant further research on instances when people agree to sex they don't want with novel partners. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Facilitators and barriers of Pre-exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) uptake have been established in prior studies; however, most of these studies comprise samples of MSM from metropolitan cities and hypothetical PrEP use. There is a dearth of literature on the uptake factors among rural U.S. MSM who are prescribed PrEP. Thirty-four rural Midwestern MSM who currently take PrEP participated in semi-structured telephone interviews about their barriers and facilitators to their PrEP use. Interviews were analyzed using an inductive thematic analysis approach. There were four barriers: (1) lack of rural dissemination of PrEP information, (2) concern about side and adverse effects of using PrEP, (3) cost of PrEP uptake and engagement, and (4) lack of access to PrEP care and PrEP care quality. Individual and social facilitators that participants utilized to overcome these barriers are discussed. Findings elevate the importance of multilevel interventions that address PrEP adoption from a patient, provider, and healthcare system perspective. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bisexual individuals have disproportionately higher rates of physical and mental health concerns compared to both heterosexual and gay/lesbian individuals. Few studies have examined diverse bisexual-identified men's perceived health concerns for themselves and other bisexual men or their experiences in healthcare settings. This qualitative study explored health and healthcare experiences among cisgender and transgender bisexual men, most of whom were also men of color. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews. Participants included 31 self-identified bisexual men from the Chicago area. Participants were asked questions surrounding bisexual men's health and healthcare experiences in general and their personal experiences, drawing connections between intersecting bisexual and racial/ethnic identities. Interview transcripts were analyzed using thematic analysis. Participants reported sexual health and mental health as the top health concerns for bisexual men. Participants viewed their bisexual identity as a motivator for seeking healthcare services and adopting safer sex practices. Mental health challenges faced by respondents were connected to bisexual stereotypes and fear of disclosing bisexual and transgender identities. Furthermore, perceptions of masculinity amongst bisexual men of color were particularly salient in connecting to their mental health experiences. The intersection of participants' transgender and bisexual identities impacted their healthcare experiences in general healthcare settings, with many participants reporting a lack of cultural competence and provider knowledge concerning their identities. LGBTQ Federally Qualified Health Centers, however, were described as providing compassionate care. Our findings suggest the need for more interventions that account for bisexual men's intersecting identities. Furthermore, increased provider training is necessary for providing affirmative care to bisexual men. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Consistent and correct use of contraceptives and barrier methods are effective ways to prevent sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and unintended pregnancy. We examined contraceptive and barrier use among a sample of 27 sexual- and gender-minoritized individuals assigned female at birth (SGMF) in three cities in India. Contraceptive and barrier use was prevalent among SGMF with male sex partners but was perceived as unnecessary for many who solely engaged with female partners. Perceived lack of risk, cultural and partner-related issues, and concerns about side effects served as barriers to use. Inclusive sexuality education would better address the needs of SGMF. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To explore perceptions of condoms associated with complete use and evaluate relationships between condom perceptions, condom use, and sexual quality. Methods: Using data from a U. S. nationally representative probability sample, we assessed individuals' condom use perceptions and related characteristics of their most recent sexual event through bivariate and regression analyses (n = 234). Results: Most participants reported complete condom use and neutral or positive perceptions of condoms. Though incomplete use was associated with orgasm among women, arousal and pleasure did not differ by gender or duration of condom use. Conclusions: We found no evidence that delayed application or early condom removal increased sexual arousal or pleasure, which may help sexual health promotion interventions address negative cultural ideas about condoms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sexual orientation is a multi-dimensional concept, at a minimum comprised of sexual identity, sexual attraction, and sexual behavior. Our study aimed to assess relationships among self-identified sexual identity, sexual attraction, and sexual behaviors in a probability sample of adults in the U.S. and to identify associated factors with diverse patterns. We collected data from adults in the 2015 National Survey of Sexual Health and Behavior, an Internet-based nationally representative probability survey of the general U.S. population. Concordance between sexual identity versus sexual attraction and sexual behaviors was assessed using percent agreement. We identified correlates of discordance using logistic regression. Concordance between sexual identity versus sexual attraction and past-year sexual behaviors was 94% and 96%, respectively, though our sample was predominately composed of heterosexual individuals. Women and sexual minority individuals reported greater discordance across sexuality-related measures than men and heterosexual individuals. Younger adults (aged 18-24 years) were more likely to report sexual behaviors discordant with sexual identity compared with older adults (including those ages 25-34 years). Higher levels of educational attainment were significantly associated with less discordance of reported recent sexual activity and sexual identity. Measures of sexual identity, attraction, and behaviors are not interchangeable. Future research should consider multiple sexuality-related measures in order to capture the complexity and variability of sexualities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This qualitative study examined the acceptability of female condoms in urban India, with a focus on sexual pleasure. We conducted focus group discussions with 50 women and 19 men, as well as a small number of individual interviews with women (n = 3), in Chennai and New Delhi. Perceived benefits of female condoms included protection against unintended pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections, increased sense of empowerment for women, and simple clean up. The most common drawback was reduced sensation. Participants suggested structural changes to the female condom to ease insertion and use. Consent and privacy were discussed as increasing sexual pleasure. Pleasure should be acknowledged in design and education efforts to increase female condom use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Previous social and behavioral research on identity among bisexual men, when not subsumed within the category of men who have sex with men (MSM), has primarily focused on samples of self-identified bisexual men. Little is known about sexual self-identification among men who are behaviorally bisexual, regardless of sexual identity. Using qualitative data from 77 in-depth interviews with a diverse sample of behaviorally bisexual men (i.e., men who have had sex with at least one woman and at least one man in the past six months) from a large city in the Midwestern United States, we analyzed responses from a domain focusing on sexual self-identity and related issues. Overall, participants' sexual self-identification was exceptionally diverse. Three primary themes emerged: (1) a resistance to, or rejection of, using sexual self-identity labels; (2) concurrent use of multiple identity categories and the strategic deployment of multiple sexual identity labels; and (3) a variety of trajectories to current sexual self-identification. Based on our findings, we offer insights into the unique lived experiences of behaviorally bisexual men, as well as broader considerations for the study of men's sexuality. We also explore identity-related information useful for the design of HIV/STI prevention and other sexual health programs directed toward behaviorally bisexual men, which will ideally be variable and flexible in accordance with the wide range of diversity found in this population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Correction to: Sexuality Research and Social Policy https://doi.org/10.1007/s13178-021-00593-... The original version of this article unfortunately had a missing reference. Sexual health education for adolescent males who are interested in sex with males: An investigation of experiences, preferences, and needs. Correction to: A Mixed Methods Study of Sexuality Education Experiences and Preferences Among Bisexual, Pansexual, and Queer (Bi +) Male Youth. [Extracted from the article]

Unlabelled: Background There is a lack of research that examines event-level lubricant use and outcomes among gay and bisexual men, with the majority of current research addressing lubricant use within the context of sexual risk. Most studies examining sexual health among gay and bisexual men have relied on convenience sampling strategies for participant recruitment.Methods: Data were collected from the 2012 wave of the National Survey of Sexual Health and Behaviour (NSSHB), which involved the administration of an online questionnaire to a nationally representative probability sample of women and men in the United States aged 18 years and older, including an oversampling of self-identified gay and bisexual men and women. The findings from gay (n=307) and bisexual (n=25) participants who reported sexual behaviours with other male partners during their last sexual encounter are included in this paper. Post-stratification data weights were applied to the data to maximise the generalisability of the findings.Results: Men who reported lubricant use during their last sexual event with a male partner (n=163) were significantly more likely to be non-White, Hispanic and between 30 and 39 years old. Bisexual men had lower odds of using lubricant than gay-identified men. The majority of men reported using lubricant during anal intercourse, along with lower numbers with a range of other sexual behaviours.Conclusion: Public health promotion specialists should consider recommending continued lubricant use as a part of comprehensive sexual health promotion efforts for gay and bisexual men, including that it reduces pain and maximises pleasure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Research examining the sexual behaviors and experiences of behaviorally bisexual men is limited. Most studies focus primarily on highlighting sexual risk behaviors among groups of 'men who have sex with men (MSM)' or 'gay and bisexual men,' which may not be appropriate in terms of behaviorally bisexual men's sexual repertoires with both men and women. This study aimed to assess a broad range of sexual behaviors and associated experiences among bisexual men living in the midwestern United States. An interviewer-administered questionnaire containing items from the National Survey of Sexual Health and Behavior assessed lifetime and recent (i.e., past 6 months and last event) sexual behaviors and experiences with both male and female partners among a diverse sample of 75 behaviorally bisexual men. Responses were quantified and analyzed using descriptive and multivariate statistics. A wide range of sexual behaviors with partners of both genders was found. Vaginal intercourse and oral sex with both men and women were the most commonly reported behaviors. Subjective reports of pleasure, arousal, and sexual function during sexual activity were similar with both male and female sexual partners. Many participants reported using condoms during insertive sexual behaviors with male and female partners, but less during oral sex. Unprotected receptive anal sex was less commonly reported. Overall, participants reported a variety of sexual behaviors and experiences; however, unlike other populations, they shared these with partners of both genders. Results have implications for interventions targeting the sexual behaviors and associated issues among behaviorally bisexual men. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many scholars and practitioners have advocated for a more ecological approach to sexual health promotion for adolescents, such as one that includes involvement from schools, parents, and community organizations. Although extensive research has been conducted with schools and parents, little is known about the roles community-based organizations (CBOs) may play in the education and promotion of sexual health to young people. This study aimed to (a) identify the types of sexual health and sexuality-related questions asked by youth and programming/services, resources, and referrals currently being provided by CBOs; (b) explore the approaches used by CBOs when developing and implementing sexual health promotion programs; and (c) compare these findings with those from a similar study on school teachers, counselors, and nurses within the same state. Data collected from 169 people working in CBOs indicate that a wide variety of topics were covered by CBOs through programming and services, resources, and/or referral protocols. Topics covered varied in frequency. Overall, participants indicated a relatively comprehensive and accessible approach to providing sexuality information to youth. The results of this study suggest that CBOs should be included in the range of sources to be used for comprehensive sexual health promotion. If such organizations are supported with information, training, and resources, they could play a valuable role in the promotion of sexual health for adolescents. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

The midwestern United States has a high number of recent Latino migrants, but little information is available regarding their sexual behaviors. A total of 75 behaviorally bisexual men (25 Latino, 25 Black and 25 White) participated in an exploratory study on sexual health. The data presented in this article are restricted to the 25 self-identified Latino men. Qualitative in-depth interviews were conducted and optional self-administered sexual transmitted infection (STI) screening was provided. The measures used were taken from the National Survey of Sexual Health and Behavior (NSSHB), a probability study of the sexual behaviors of nearly 6,000 individuals, age 14 to 94, in the United States. In this sample of bisexual men, the most commonly reported sexual behaviors were masturbation, vaginal intercourse and receiving oral sex from male and female partners. The majority of the participants were the insertive partner during anal sex with male partners. Many of the participants reported alcohol use during their most recent sexual activity. A fair number reported not using condoms during their last sexual event. Pleasure, arousal, orgasm and erectile functioning were markedly similar despite partner gender. A small number of participants also engaged in sexual activities with transgender individuals. All of the Latino participants took part in optional self-collection for STI specimens. The results of the study provide rich insights into the sexual behavior and related factors, as well as potential risk behaviors, of bisexual Latino men that may be targeted for future sexual health promotion efforts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Studies concerning behaviorally bisexual men continue to focus on understanding sexual risk according to a narrow range of sexual behaviors. Few studies have explored the subjective meanings and experiences related to bisexual men's sexual behaviors with male and female partners. In-depth, semistructured interviews were conducted with 75 men who engaged in bisexual behavior within the past 6 months. Participants were asked about their subjective sexual experiences with male and female partners. Findings suggest adherence to normative gender roles, with attraction to men and women conforming to these stereotypes, as well as a segregation of sexual behaviors along gendered lines. Overall, condom use was influenced by perceptions of potential negative consequences. Based on these findings, it remains critical that public health and other social and behavioral sciences continue to study bisexual men's sexual health issues as separate and distinct from their exclusively homosexual and heterosexual counterparts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Research on behaviourally bisexual Latino men in the USA has not yet examined sexual health issues among men living in diverse areas of the nation, including the Midwest. A community-based participatory research approach was used to engage a diverse sample of 75 behaviourally bisexual men (25 White, 25 Black and 25 Latino). Semi-structured interviews were conducted and standard qualitative analysis procedures were used to explore data from the 25 Latino participants. Men described their unique migration experiences as behaviourally bisexual men in this area of the USA, as well as related sexual risk behaviours and health concerns. Lack of culturally congruent public health and community resources for behaviourally bisexual men in the Midwestern USA were identified as significant barriers. As in other studies, familial and community relationships were significant for the participants, especially in terms of the decision to disclose or not disclose their bisexuality. Additionally, alcohol and other drugs were often used while engaging in sexual behaviours particularly with male and transgender, as well as female, partners. Behaviourally bisexual Latino men may benefit from receiving positive and affirmative individual- and structural-level support in regards to their unique experiences in this and other settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses a study which investigated the preferences for chlamydia screening and health seeking behaviours by men attending a public health sexually transmissible infection (STI) clinic. The study was aimed at understanding the features of an STI control program. It involved 29 asymptomatic men recruited from Bellflower Clinic in Indianapolis, Indiana. The men were found to prefer speaking with clinic personnel rather than using electronic informational resources. They also preferred to receive results through the telephone instead of electronic options. The authors emphasise the need for future non-clinic based screening strategies to include an educational component to deal with confidentiality and sample quality concerns.

ABSTRACT Introduction. Little is known about the prevalence of sexual behaviors among the black and Hispanic populations in the United States outside the context of sexual risk and disease transmission in 'high-risk' samples. Aim. This study sought to establish current rates of sexual behaviors, sexual health care practices (i.e., experiences with testing and diagnosis of sexually transmitted infections [STIs]), and condom use in a probability sample of black and Hispanic adult men and women in the United States. Main Outcome Measures. Sexual behaviors including solo masturbation, partnered masturbation, receiving oral sex and giving oral sex, vaginal intercourse, and anal intercourse were assessed. Self-reported rates of HIV and other STI testing, and self-reported history of STI diagnosis were examined. Also assessed were rates of condom use during most recent and past 10 vaginal intercourse events. Methods. Data from a probability sample of 1246 black and Hispanic adults were analyzed to explore sexual behaviors, condom use, and STI testing and diagnosis trends. Results. Masturbation, oral sex, and vaginal intercourse were prevalent among black and Hispanic men and women throughout the life course. Anal intercourse and same-gender sexual activities were less common. Self-reported rates of HIV testing were relatively high but varied by gender across age groups. Similarly, rates of testing for other STI were high and differed by gender across age groups. Overall rates of condom use among black and Hispanic men and women were relatively high and did not appear to be related to a variety of situational factors including location of sexual encounter, relationship status, other contraceptive use, and substance use during sexual activity. Conclusion. These data provide a foundation for understanding diverse sexual behaviors, sexual health-care practices, and condom use among the general population of black and Hispanic men and women in the United States. Dodge B, Reece M, Herbenick D, Schick V, Sanders SA, and Fortenberry JD. Sexual health among U.S. black and Hispanic men and women: a nationally representative study. J Sex Med 2010;7(suppl 5):330-345. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Findings from recent studies in the United States indicate that some men report they perceive problems with the fit and feel of condoms and that these perceptions are associated with lack of consistent condom use. However, little research has explored how men outside the U.S. feel about the fit and feel of condoms. The research project was conducted by researchers in the U.S. in collaboration with a range of community partners in France, Germany, the Netherlands, Slovenia, and Spain. A total of 2,921 men completed The Condom Fit and Feel Scale and other items via Internet-based surveys available in six languages. Men from each nation were compared using descriptive and multivariate techniques to assess condom fit and feel. Although most men reported they generally perceived condoms to fit fine and feel comfortable, there were differences across men in different countries with regard to specific issues they experienced with condom fit and feel. In particular, men in the Netherlands were least likely to report that condoms fit fine and most likely to report that condoms felt too tight and/or too short. Men from Slovenia were most likely to report that condoms were too loose. The fit and feel issues that men identified may be among those that are associated with their likelihood of using, or not using, condoms consistently and correctly. A better understanding of fit and feel perceptions in this study will be beneficial to both condom manufacturers and health professionals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Adolescents in the United States continue to face sexual health issues. While community-based organizations (CBOs) have a long history of addressing the sexual health needs of those they serve, little attention has been given to CBOs focused on adolescent populations and the role youth development professionals (YDPs) might play in the advancement of sexual health. The purpose of this study was to assess the potential of YDPs to provide sexuality information to youth by 1) determining the frequency and type of questions YDPs receive from youth on sexuality and 2) ascertaining the perceived comfort, confidence, skills, and knowledge of YDPs in answering questions from youth and characteristics that might be predictive of increased levels of perceived comfort, confidence, skills, and knowledge. Utilizing a community-based participatory research process that engaged the researchers with leaders, key stakeholders, and youth development professionals from community-based organizations throughout the state, data were collected from 169 YDP in Indiana. YDPs received questions from youth on a broad array of sexuality-related topics with personal skills and relationships being the most frequent topics. YDPs had high perceived levels of comfort, confidence, skills, and knowledge (CCSK) in addressing questions from youth about sexuality. Training, both formal classroom-type training and more informal practices such as advice-seeking from a professional, was the only factor predictive of higher levels of CCSK. Results indicate that YDPs might play an important role in providing sexuality information to youth. Communities interested in ameliorating disparities among youth might want to consider including CBOs and YDPs in an ecological approach to sexual health education. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To identify correlates of women applying condoms. Methods: Cross-sectional survey of 533 sexually-active women; questionnaire. Results: Of the condom users (n = 322), 31.7% reported applying condoms at least once-an average on 59.7% of the occasions. Compared to nonappliers, appliers had more positive affect toward sexually related situations (erotophilia, P.004) and a higher frequency of sex (P.003). Condom users, compared to nonusers, were significantly younger (P=.001), were less likely to be in sexually exclusive relationships (P=.001) or married (P.01), and reported more partners in the past 3 months (P=.001). Conclusions: Condom-applying women may have more positive attitudes toward sexuality and engage in a higher frequency of sexual activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To assess differences in sexual health behaviors, outcomes, and potential sociocultural determinants among male college students in the United States and the Netherlands. Methods: Survey data were collected from random samples of students from both national cultures. Results: American men were more likely to report inadequate contraception, HIV/STD infection, and unintended pregnancy than were Dutch men. Religiosity and sexuality education were able to explain national differences in these sexual health outcomes. Conclusions: Findings suggest that sexuality education seems to decrease, rather than increase, sexual risk in heterosexually active male college students. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents a study which examined the collaboration within the justice system to improve sexual health services for vulnerable women in the U.S. It states that justice-involved women are at high risk for these conditions due to individual risk behavior as well as other network-level risk factors. It examines how community-based participatory research principles (CBPR) were adapted and tailored for use in a court setting. It also cites the lessons learned as well as the implications for CBPR projects in a community court.

Although withdrawal use is routinely measured as part of contraceptive surveillance in the United States, its assessment may be prone to underreporting and measurement errors. Additionally, at the population level, little is known about subjective experiences of withdrawal. To measure respondents' frequency of and reasons for engaging in extra-vaginal ejaculation in the past year, and to compare contraceptive withdrawal vs extra-vaginal/anal ejaculation during the most recent sexual event. The 2018 National Survey of Sexual Health and Behavior is a U.S. nationally representative probability survey of adolescents and adults. This study was administered in February–March 2018 via GfK Research's KnowledgePanel. Respondents who reported consensual penile-vaginal intercourse in the past year were included in the analysis. Logistic regression was used to assess factors associated with finding extra-vaginal ejaculation sexy/arousing. Main outcomes were the frequency of and reasons for extra-vaginal ejaculation in the past year, as well as reported contraceptive withdrawal use and the location of ejaculation at the most recent penile-vaginal intercourse. In the past year, approximately 60% of respondents reported engaging in any extra-vaginal ejaculation; pregnancy prevention and sexual pleasure were given as common reasons. Those who were men, white, or aged 25–29 were more likely to find extra-vaginal ejaculation sexy or arousing; no gender differences were observed in their partner's perception of this act. Prevalence of selecting withdrawal on the contraceptive inventory was 12.2% (95% CI 10.6–14.0) at last sexual event, whereas extra-vaginal/anal ejaculation was reported by 20.8% (95% CI 18.7–23.0). This lack of concordance in differing measures was observed consistently across all age groups, and approximately 12% to 14% of individuals reported an ejaculation location that did not correspond to their withdrawal use. The results of this study have implications for how healthcare providers discuss withdrawal with their patients and counsel them on using extra-vaginal ejaculation as part of their contraceptive use or part of their sexual repertoire. This is the first nationally representative study to directly compare contraceptive withdrawal to extra-vaginal ejaculation. Limited data were collected at event level regarding motivations for extra-vaginal ejaculation, pregnancy attitudes, perceptions of condoms and sexually transmitted infection prevention, or exposure to erotic media, thus limiting further assessment of relationships between various factors and extra-vaginal/anal ejaculation. We found that reporting of withdrawal as a contraceptive method vs extra-vaginal/anal ejaculation was inconsistent and that extra-vaginal/anal ejaculation was commonly used for reasons other than pregnancy prevention; future research should use more precise measures of "withdrawal." Fu TC, Hensel DJ, Beckmeyer JJ, et al. Considerations in the Measurement and Reporting of Withdrawal: Findings from the 2018 National Survey of Sexual Health and Behavior. J Sex Med 2019;16:1170–1177. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective. To examine knowledge of Zika transmission and risk perception and to assess variability by condom use in a probability sample of sexually-active adults in the United States. Methods. Data for this study came from the 2016 wave of the National Survey of Sexual Health and Behavior, a nationally representative probability sample of adults in the United States. Data were collected in November 2016 via a cross-sectional Internet-based survey administered to members of a Knowledge Panel, an address-based random sample service managed by GfK. A weighted subsample (n = 1 713) of sexually active adults, 18 - 50 years of age, was included in analyses. Results. More than 90% of men and women reported low or no perceived risk of Zika. Most participants identified mosquito bite as a route of transmission, while significantly fewer identified sexual intercourse (≈ 40%) and vertical (29% men, 41% women) transmission routes. Conclusion. Sexually-active adults in the United States, especially young men, lack awareness of sexual and vertical transmission of Zika Virus. Given the likely endemic nature of Zika, this low-risk perception is an important prevention challenge. Zika prevention messaging should address lesser known transmission routes, emphasize male education, and promote correct and consistent condom use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction Despite the wealth of literature addressing sexual practices and condom use among men and women, very little data are available among Hispanic/ Latino populations and in the Caribbean Region. This study adds to the existing literature on sexual practices and condom use in Puerto Rico ( PR) and provides comparisons based on sex given the need for more current information on the sexual characteristics and condom use rates among understudied populations. Aim The aim of this study was to assess the rates of sexual practices and condom use among adults, aged 21-49, in PR. Methods We report the prevalence of lifetime and recent (past 3 months) sexual practices by sex, as event-level condom use rates, and condom familiarity and accessibility in an online-based sample of adult men and women in PR. Main Outcome Measures The main variables assessed include sociodemographic characteristics, solo and partnered sexual practices, and condom use frequencies, as well as familiarity and accessibility to male and female condoms. Results Overall, 93% of the sample reported having been sexually active (engaged in oral, vaginal, and/or anal sex) in their lifetime and 78% reported sexual practices in the past 3 months. As in other studies Hispanic/ Latino populations, reported rates of anal intercourse ( AI) among both men and women were relatively high. Overall, a greater proportion of men reported condom use during all sexual practices (41% vaginal intercourse ( VI); 65% receptive AI; 46% insertive AI) than women (22% VI; 18% AI). Conclusions These findings provide current sexual practice and condom use frequency rates that can aid in the understanding of the particular sexual health needs of Hispanic/ Latino populations as well as of other groups in the Caribbean. It also serves for the development of future studies and sexual health promotion programs, including comprehensive sexual health care. Rodriguez-Diaz CE, Collazo E, Dodge B, Roman-Rivera A, Candelaria-Rosa E, Colon-Colon M, and Herbenick D. 'Sexplorando': Sexual practices and condom use among an Internet-based sample of men and women in Puerto Rico. J Sex Med 2014;11:2385-2395. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction Much scientific research focuses on assessing and understanding individuals' perceptions of sexual pleasure, enjoyment and satisfaction. Many existing measures of pleasure and satisfaction provide valuable information but are limited in their ability to assess event-level quality. Aims To develop a scale for measuring the event-level quality of a sexual experience that could be used regardless of the age, gender, sexual orientation, and relationship status of the individual and across sexual activity types. Methods Interviews about the measurement of sexual quality and pleasure were conducted with 15 experts in the field of sexual health and informed the development of an event-level scale to measure the quality of sexual experiences. Scale items were administered to a cross-sectional nationally representative probability survey of Americans ages 18 to 60. Main Outcome Measures Socio-demographic items; Quality of Sexual Experience ( QSE) scale items; event-level items related to overall sexual quality ('Quality item'), comparison to other sexual events ('Comparison item'), and orgasm ('Orgasm item'). Results QSE scores were significantly correlated with responses to the Quality Item ( r = 0.901, P < 0.001 for both women and men). Better experiences were associated with significantly higher QSE scores than were worse experiences; significant linear relationships were found for both women ( GLM F[4,1461] = 129.46, P < 0.001) and men ( GLM F[4,864] = 71.84, P < 0.001). QSE scores were significantly related to responses on the Orgasm Item for women [ F[3,1430] = 246.53, P < 0.001] and men [ F[3,858] = 117.24, P < 0.001]. Conclusions The QSE scale is a valid and reliable event-level measure of the quality of a sexual experience in both women and men with outstanding psychometric properties. Clinical and research implications are discussed. Sanders SA, Herbenick D, Reece M, Schick V, Mullinax M, Dodge B, and Fortenberry JD. The development and validation of a brief quality of sexual experience (QSE) scale: Results from a nationally representative sample of men and women in the United States. J Sex Med 2013;10:2409-2417. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Introduction. Little is known about the characteristics of sexual events during which individuals choose to use lubricant with condoms. Aims. The aims of this article were to evaluate the determinants of adding lubricant to condoms during baseline and at the event level, to assess the event-level variables' influence on adding lubricants to condoms, and to assess the event-level influence of using condoms with lubricant on event-level condom attitudes. Methods. A total of 1,874 men completed a 30-day Internet-based prospective daily diary study of sexual behavior and condom use. Main Outcome Measures. Baseline data included demographic variables and information about condom education. Daily diary data included reports of penile-vaginal sex regarding intercourse duration, intercourse intensity, intoxication level, condom application method, partner contraceptive method, and partner and relationship characteristics. Results. Lubricant was added to 24.3% of the study-provided condoms and 26.2% of the condoms selected by study participants. Those with more education and those who were married were more likely to add lubrication to condoms. Adding lubricant to condoms, a female partner putting the condom on with her hands and using contraception, and the event occurring with a wife (vs. girlfriend) was significantly associated with longer intercourse. Event-level lubricant and condom use significantly predicted lower willingness to buy the condom it was used with, as well as to recommend the condom. Adding exogenous lubricant was not related to the participants' confidence in condoms as a method to prevent pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections. Conclusions. The event-level nature of this study provided for a more comprehensive assessment of the situational factors that are associated with applying lubricant to condoms. Findings from this study suggest that men are adding lubricant to condoms for reasons other than to increase condom efficacy. Reece M, Mark K, Herbenick D, Hensel DJ, Jawed-Wessel S, and Dodge B. An event-level analysis of adding exogenous lubricant to condoms in a sample of men who have vaginal sex with women. J Sex Med 2012;9:672-678. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Introduction. To provide a foundation for those who provide sexual health services and programs to men in the United States, the need for population-based data that describes men's sexual behaviors and their correlates remains. Aims. The purpose of this study was to, in a national probability survey of men ages 18-94 years, assess the occurrence and frequency of sexual behaviors and their associations with relationship status and health status. Methods. A national probability sample of 2,522 men aged 18 to 94 completed a cross-sectional survey about their sexual behaviors, relationship status, and health. Main Outcome Measures. Relationship status; health status; experience of solo masturbation, partnered masturbation, giving oral sex, receiving oral sex, vaginal intercourse and anal intercourse, in the past 90 days; frequency of solo masturbation, vaginal intercourse and anal intercourse in the past year. Results. Masturbation, oral intercourse, and vaginal intercourse are prevalent among men throughout most of their adult life, with both occurrence and frequency varying with age and as functions of relationship type and physical health status. Masturbation is prevalent and frequent across various stages of life and for both those with and without a relational partner, with fewer men with fair to poor health reporting recent masturbation. Patterns of giving oral sex to a female partner were similar to those for receiving oral sex. Vaginal intercourse in the past 90 days was more prevalent among men in their late 20s and 30s than in the other age groups, although being reported by approximately 50% of men in the sixth and seventh decades of life. Anal intercourse and sexual interactions with other men were less common than all other sexual behaviors. Conclusion. Contemporary men in the United States engage in diverse solo and partnered sexual activities; however, sexual behavior is less common and more infrequent among older age cohorts. Reece M, Herbenick D, Schick V, Sanders SA, Dodge B, and Fortenberry JD. Sexual behaviors, relationships, and perceived health among adult men in the United States: Results from a national probability sample. J Sex Med 2010;7(suppl 5):291-304. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Introduction. Past surveys of sexual behavior have demonstrated that female sexual behavior is influenced by medical and sociocultural changes. To be most attentive to women and their sexual lives, it is important to have an understanding of the continually evolving sexual behaviors of contemporary women in the United States. Aims. The purpose of this study, the National Survey of Sexual Health and Behavior (NSSHB), was to, in a national probability survey of women ages 18-92, assess the proportion of women in various age cohorts who had engaged in solo and partnered sexual activities in the past 90 days and to explore associations with participants' sexual behavior and their relationship and perceived health status. Past year frequencies of masturbation, vaginal intercourse, and anal intercourse were also assessed. Methods. A national probability sample of 2,523 women ages 18 to 92 completed a cross-sectional internet based survey about their sexual behavior. Main Outcome Measures. Relationship status; perceived health status; experience of solo masturbation, partnered masturbation, giving oral sex, receiving oral sex, vaginal intercourse, anal intercourse, in the past 90 days; frequency of solo masturbation, vaginal intercourse, and anal intercourse in the past year. Results. Recent solo masturbation, oral sex, and vaginal intercourse were prevalent among women, decreased with age, and varied in their associations with relationship and perceived health status. Recent anal sex and same-sex oral sex were uncommonly reported. Solo masturbation was most frequent among women ages 18 to 39, vaginal intercourse was most frequent among women ages 18 to 29 and anal sex was infrequently reported. Conclusion. Contemporary women in the United States engage in a diverse range of solo and partnered sexual activities, though sexual behavior is less common and more infrequent among older age cohorts. Herbenick D, Reece M, Schick V, Sanders SA, Dodge B, and Fortenberry JD. Sexual behaviors, relationships, and perceived health status among adult women in the United States: Results from a national probability sample. J Sex Med 2010;7(suppl 5):277-290. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Introduction. In the contemporary U.S., men and women are living longer and healthier lives. As such, many people spend greater portions of their lives as sexually active individuals. Yet, little is known about the myriad of ways that older adults experience their sexual lives. Aim. This study sought to assess the context and frequency of sexual behaviors, condom use, sexual pleasure, and sexual experience of men and women over age 50. Methods. Information regarding the sexual experiences of a nationally representative sample of men and women over age 50 within the past year was examined. Main Outcome Measures. Sexual behavior over the past year was assessed in relation to several situational and contextual characteristics (e.g., event location, type of partner, health status, condom use). Participants were also asked about their experience (i.e., pleasure, arousal, pain, lubrication/erectile difficulties, and orgasm) during their most recent partnered sexual event. Bivariate or ordinal logistic regression models were used to investigate the relationship of age, health and partner status to sexual frequency and experience. Results. Although sizable proportions (20-30%) of both men and women remained sexually active well into their 80s age was related to a lower likelihood of solo and most partnered sexual behaviors. When controlling for age, relationship status, and health remained significant predictors of select sexual behaviors. The participant's evaluation of their most recent sexual experience in terms of arousal, erectile difficulty, and orgasm all declined with age. Health status was related to men's evaluation of the experience. Relationship status was the most consistent predictor of women's evaluation of the experience. Condom use rates remained low for participants across age groups. Conclusion. Many older adults continue be sexually active well into advanced age (80+). Thus, providers need to be attentive to the diverse sexual health needs of older adults. Schick V, Herbenick D, Reece M, Sanders SA, Dodge B, Middlestadt SE, and Fortenberry JD. Sexual behaviors, condom use, and sexual health of Americans over 50: Implications for sexual health promotion for older adults. J Sex Med 2010;7(suppl 5):315-329. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Introduction. Given the efficacy of latex condoms for preventing pregnancy, HIV, and most STI, their promotion remains central to global sexual health efforts. To inform the development of accurate and appropriately-targeted interventions, there is a need for contemporary condom use rates among specific populations. Aims. The purpose of this study was to establish rates of condom use among sexually active individuals in the U.S. population. Methods. Data were collected via a national probability sample of 5,865 U.S. adolescents and adults aged 14 to 94 years. Main Outcome Measures. Condom use was assessed during the most recent partnered vaginal or anal sexual event and over the past 10 vaginal and anal intercourse events. Results. Condom use by men during past 10 vaginal intercourse events was slightly higher (21.5%) than that reported by women (18.4%), and consistent with rates of condom use reported during most recent vaginal intercourse by men (24.7%) and women (21.8%). Adolescent men reported condom use during 79.1% of the past 10 vaginal intercourse events, adolescent women reported use during 58.1% of the same. Condom use during past 10 anal intercourse events was higher among men (25.8%) than women (13.2%); the same was observed for most recent anal intercourse event (26.5% for insertive men, 44.1% for receptive men, and 10.8% for receptive women). Generally, condom use was highest among unmarried adults, higher among adolescents than adults, and higher among black and Hispanic individuals when compared with other racial groups. Conclusion. These data indicate clear trends in condom use across age, gender, relationship status, and race/ethnicity. These contemporary rates of condom use will be helpful to those who lead efforts to increase condom use among individuals who may be at risk for sexually transmitted infections or who desire to prevent pregnancy. Reece M, Herbenick D, Schick V, Sanders SA, Dodge B, and Fortenberry JD. Condom use rates in a national probability sample of males and females ages 14 to 94 in the United States. J Sex Med 2010;7(suppl 5):266-276. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Introduction. Despite a demonstrated relationship between sexual behaviors and health, including clinical risks, little is known about contemporary sexual behavior. Aims. To assess the rates of sexual behavior among adolescents and adults in the United States. Methods. We report the recent (past month, past year) and lifetime prevalence of sexual behaviors in a nationally representative probability sample of 5,865 men and women ages 14 to 94 in the United States (2,936 men, 2,929 women). Main Outcome Measures. Behaviors assessed included solo masturbation, partnered masturbation, giving and receiving oral sex, vaginal intercourse, and anal intercourse. Results. Masturbation was common throughout the lifespan and more common than partnered sexual activities during adolescence and older age (70+). Although uncommon among 14- to 15-year olds, in the past year 18.3% of 16- to 17-year-old males and 22.4% of 16- to 17-year-old females performed oral sex with an other-sex partner. Also in the past year, more than half of women and men ages 18 to 49 engaged in oral sex. The proportion of adults who reported vaginal sex in the past year was highest among men ages 25-39 and for women ages 20-29, then progressively declined among older age groups. More than 20% of men ages 25-49 and women ages 20-39 reported anal sex in the past year. Same-sex sexual behaviors occurring in the past year were uncommonly reported. Conclusions. Men and women engage in a diverse range of solo and partnered sexual behaviors throughout the life course. The rates of contemporary sexual behavior provided in this report will be valuable to those who develop, implement, and evaluate programs that seek to improve societal knowledge related to the prevalence of sexual behaviors and to sexual health clinicians whose work to improve sexual health among the population often requires such rates of behavior. Herbenick D, Reece M, Schick V, Sanders SA, Dodge B, and Fortenberry JD. Sexual behavior in the United States: Results from a national probability sample of men and women ages 14-94. J Sex Med 2010;7(suppl 5):255-265. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]