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Copyright of Gynäkologische Endokrinologie is the property of Springer Nature and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Revista Ciência & Saúde Coletiva is the property of Associacao Brasileira de Pos-Graduacao em Saude Coletiva and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

College-age students are disproportionately impacted by sexually transmitted infections. Campus programs that reduce sexual violence have received recent investment, are increasingly common, and may offer a platform to increase condom use, but this has not yet been investigated. We explore this novel question through a secondary analysis of a randomized control trial of RealConsent, a web-based, sexual assault program for college women, on three college campuses. By estimating single and multiple-mediator models we examine the relationships between study assignment, the hypothesized mediators: self-efficacy to discuss safer sex, and clarity and assertiveness in sexual communication, and consistent condom use at follow-up. In the single mediator models, self-efficacy for safer sex communication (aOR: 1.11, 95% CI: 1.03–1.19, p =.004), assertiveness in sexual communication (aOR: 1.06, 95% CI: 1.02–1.11, p =.004), and clarity in sexual communication (aOR: 1.03, 95% CI: 1.00–1.05, p =.026) demonstrated significant direct effects on condom use. No statistically significant relationships between RealConsent and the mediators, nor indirect effects were found. In the multimediator model, there were no statistically significant associations identified. Self-efficacy, assertiveness, and clarity in communication about sex may have a positive impact on condom use but we did not find evidence that RealConsent impacted these mediators and thus no mediated effect was identified. Additional research is needed to develop and assess college-based sexual violence prevention programs that include an additional focus on skills specifically related to condom negotiation and use to understand if these widespread programs offer an efficient and effective platform to reduce the impact of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) among this high-risk population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Using national probability data from the 2022 National Survey of Sexual Health and Behavior, the present study evaluated whether moderators of the association between frequency of pornography exposure and condomless sex are consistent with the sexual script acquisition, activation, application model's (3AM) suppositions about the facilitating effects of wishful identification and decreased self-regulation and forethought capacity. Consistent with the 3AM, two-way interaction effect analysis indicated that the strength of the positive association between exposure frequency and condomless sex increased as identification intensified. Inconsistent with the 3AM, two-way interaction effect analysis indicated that the association between exposure frequency and condomless sex was not significantly different among those who had and had not consumed alcohol before their last sexual encounter. However, the three-way interaction between exposure frequency, identification, and alcohol use did suggest a role for each 3AM moderator, as the catalyzing effect of identification was operable among those who had consumed alcohol only. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sexual orientations, such as gay, lesbian, and bisexual, are prevalent among individuals at high risk of experiencing mental health problems, including drug use, depression, emotional distress, and suicide. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the compliance of men who have sex with men with protective equipment and determine the dominant influential factors. This cross-sectional study included 187 men who had sexual intercourse with men who were recruited from two foundations based in Palembang City, Indonesia, focusing on people living with HIV/AIDS. Data were analyzed using Chi-square and binomial logistic regression. In this context, 50.8% of men who have sexual intercourse with men did not comply with the use of sexual protective equipment, exceeding those in compliance. The multivariate logistic regression showed that knowledge was the dominant factor (PR = 15.733; 95% CI = 4.063-60.920), and most lowknowledge individuals were 15.733 times more at risk of non-compliance. Intensive education is needed regarding the potential risk of transmission, considering the ease of access to condoms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sexual health continues to be a socially complex problem globally with rising rates of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) despite extensive government and health marketing initiatives. In particular, STIs are rising at a greater rate in mature consumers than any other age group with the main reason cited as lack of condom use. The rules around condom use are based on sexual scripts or internalised guidelines and thus a key step in developing social marketing initiatives to increase condom use and address this global challenge is identifying the sexual scripts that motivate and inhibit condom use by mature consumers. Using sexual script theory, this research involves interviews with 24 mature single heterosexual Australian consumers to identify the sexual scripts that can be leveraged in health marketing to address the grand challenge of increasing mature consumer participation in protective sexual health behaviours. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Doxycycline-based prevention of bacterial sexually transmitted infections (STIs) has been assessed in various studies and has been recommended by the European AIDS Clinical Society to be proposed to persons with repeated STIs on a case-by-case basis. However, while good preventive effects could be shown for Chlamydia trachomatis and Treponema pallidum in Europe, no reliable prevention against doxycycline resistance-affected bacterial causes of STIs like Neisseria gonorrhoeae and Mycoplasma genitalium was confirmed. Methods: In a modelling-approach, we assessed potential beneficial effects even against the latter microorganisms in case of optimized adherence with doxycycline prevention. These effects were modelled for Germany in comparison to traditional prevention schemes like condom-based STI-prevention and testing-as-prevention. Results: With estimated risk reduction in the ranges of 86% for N. gonorrhoeae and of 82% for Mycoplasma genitalium, expectable preventive efficacy similar to alternative preventive approaches could be calculated in case of optimized adherence with doxycycline prevention. In case of repeated risk exposure, the preventive potential of condom-based prevention was decreased compared to both optimized doxycycline prevention and testing-as-prevention. Conclusions: As suggested by the applied modelling, the preventive effect of optimized doxycycline prevention against bacterial STIs is in a similar range, like other common prevention strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of AIDS & Behavior is the property of Springer Nature and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are some of the most common infections seen in humans, affecting over half of the female population. Though easily and quickly treatable, if gone untreated for too long, UTIs can lead to narrowing of the urethra as well as bladder and kidney infections. Due to the disease potential, it is crucial to mitigate the development of UTIs throughout healthcare. Unfortunately, sexual activity and the use of condoms have been identified as common risk factors for the development of sexually acquired UTIs. Therefore, this study outlines a potential alteration to existing condom technology to decrease the risk of developing sexually acquired UTIs using S‐nitroso‐N‐acetylpenicillamine (SNAP), a nitric oxide (NO) donor. Herein, varying concentrations of SNAP are integrated into commercialized condoms through a facile solvent swelling method. Physical characterization studies showed that 72%–100% of the ultimate tensile strength was maintained with lower SNAP concentrations, validating the modified condom's mechanical integrity. Additionally, the evaluation of room‐temperature storage stability via NO release analysis outlined a lack of special storage conditions needed compared to commercial products. Moreover, these samples exhibited >90% relative cell viability and >96% bacterial killing, proving biocompatibility and antimicrobial properties. SNAP‐Latex maintains the desired condom durability while demonstrating excellent potential as an effective new contraceptive technology to mitigate the occurrence of sexually acquired UTIs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Estudios Demográficos y Urbanos is the property of El Colegio de Mexico AC and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Revista Horizontes Pedagógicos is the property of Corporacion Universitaria Iberoamericana, Facultad Ciencias de la Educacion and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Journal of Psychology & Education / Revista de Psicología y Educación is the property of Revista de Psicologia de Educacion and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Introduction: A significant increase in HIV cases among male who having sex with male (MSM) population from 2010 until 2020 has confirmed that sexual behaviour is a primary factor of exposure to sexually transmitted infections (STIs), with condom use behaviour as the dominant risk factor. This study aim to identify factors associated with consistent condom use among MSM in Sabah. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study carried out among MSM in Sabah. Information on sociodemographics, self-esteem, self-efficacy regarding condom use, and condom use behaviour during the last sex was collected using a Google Form survey. Results: The prevalence of consistent condom use during last sexual intercourse among 331 MSM was 26.3%. From the multivariate analysis, consistent condom use was associated with Chinese ethnicity (aOR = 5.557; 95% CI = 1.533 - 20.147), unmarried (aOR = 17.251; 95% CI = 6.709 - 44.355), unemployment (aOR = 8.375; 95% CI = 2.385 - 29.409), and condom use self-efficacy (aOR = 1.069; 95% CI = 1.045 - 1.094). Conclusion: Chinese ethnicity, unmarried, unemployment, and condom use self-efficacy were significantly related to consistent condom use among respondents. The utilization of comprehensive prevention programs, including interventions targeting psychological factors and increasing access to condoms, may promote safe sex behaviour and reduce STIs among MSM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Respecting the Circle of Life (RCL) is a teen pregnancy prevention program that was evaluated for effectiveness on sexual health risk behaviors through a two-arm randomized control trial (RCT) with American Indian (AI) youth ages 11–19. The objective of this study is to investigate the effects of RCL compared to a control group on items of condom and contraception self-efficacy. Linear regression analysis was used to compare differences in each item that included condom and contraception self-efficacy scales among the intervention and control participants at baseline, 3 and 9 months post intervention. Youth enrolled in the intervention reported higher levels of condom and contraception self-efficacy across almost all individual items. Exceptions include items related to partner negotiation of condom self-efficacy at 3 months (p = 0.227) and 9 months (p = 0.074) post intervention. Findings indicate RCL is effective at improving overall condom and contraception self-efficacy but did not impact the specific component of partner negotiation for either condom or contraception self-efficacy. This inquiry provides rationale to further explore components of RCL related to partner negotiation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this article, we present a mathematical model for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)/Acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS), taking into account the number of CD4+T cells and antiretroviral treatment. This model is developed based on the susceptible, infected, treated, AIDS (SITA) framework, wherein the infected and treated compartments are divided based on the number of CD4+T cells. Additionally, we consider the possibility of treatment failure, which can exacerbate the condition of the treated individual. Initially, we analyze a simplified HIV/AIDS model without differentiation between the infected and treated classes. Our findings reveal that the global stability of the HIV/AIDS-free equilibrium point is contingent upon the basic reproduction number being less than one. Furthermore, a bifurcation analysis demonstrates that our simplified model consistently exhibits a transcritical bifurcation at a reproduction number equal to one. In the complete model, we elucidate how the control reproduction number determines the stability of the HIV/AIDS-free equilibrium point. To align our model with the empirical data, we estimate its parameters using prevalence data from the top four countries affected by HIV/AIDS, namely, Eswatini, Lesotho, Botswana, and South Africa. We employ numerical simulations and conduct elasticity and sensitivity analyses to examine how our model parameters influence the control reproduction number and the dynamics of each model compartment. Our findings reveal that each country displays distinct sensitivities to the model parameters, implying the need for tailored strategies depending on the target country. Autonomous simulations highlight the potential of case detection and condom use in reducing HIV/AIDS prevalence. Furthermore, we identify that the quality of condoms plays a crucial role: with higher quality condoms, a smaller proportion of infected individuals need to use them for the potential eradication of HIV/AIDS from the population. In our optimal control simulations, we assess population behavior when control interventions are treated as time-dependent variables. Our analysis demonstrates that a combination of condom use and case detection, as time-dependent variables, can significantly curtail the spread of HIV while maintaining an optimal cost of intervention. Moreover, our cost-effectiveness analysis indicates that the condom use intervention alone emerges as the most cost-effective strategy, followed by a combination of case detection and condom use, and finally, case detection as a standalone strategy.

Introduction: Research has begun to examine human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) prevention strategies within the Ghanaian context. Still, little is known about specific populations such as gay, bisexual, and other cisgender men who have sex with men (GBMSM) living in slum communities. We studied HIV prevention strategies such as condoms and preexposure prophylaxis (PrEP) in slum communities and the awareness and willingness to use these choices among GBMSM. This qualitative study examines HIV prevention strategies, specifically examining PrEP and condom use behaviors among GBMSM in Ghana. Methods: We conducted in-depth face-to-face interviews among 12 GBMSM from slums in Accra and Kumasi cities in Ghana. Data were analyzed through a summative content analysis with multiple reviewers to develop codes. Data were collected from participants in January 2022. Results: We found the fear and perceived risk of infection were motivators for consistent condom use, especially during anal sex. GBMSM living with HIV receiving antiretroviral therapy were more inclined to use condoms. We found motivations for using PrEP were influenced by the type of sexual activity and a history of negative HIV status. Also, the barriers to PrEP for GBMSM included limited access to healthcare facilities and the distance to these facilities. Conclusions: To improve condom and PrEP access and uptake, we recommend addressing structural barriers by increasing the number of health facilities and implementing targeted interventions to address the lack of information on HIV awareness and prevention. Involving peer educators may also effectively promote HIV prevention strategies, especially in communities with limited access to healthcare such as slums. Overcoming these access constraints could significantly enhance awareness and prevention of HIV, leading to improved health outcomes for GBMSM living in slum communities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: As condoms are effective tools for pathogen-avoidance in sexual intercourse, seeking information about condoms online may be a reactive response to the COVID-19 according to the behavioral immune system theory. Design: Taking an infodemiology perspective, this research employed multilevel analyses to examine how COVID-19 online query data (i.e., Google topic search terms Coronavirus and COVID-19) and coronavirus epidemiological data (i.e., COVID-19 cases per million and case fatality rate) would predict condom information seeking behavior online (i.e., Google topic search term Condom) throughout the pandemic across American states (Study 1) and 102 countries/territories (Study 2), after accounting for death-thought accessibility (i.e., illness-related searches), interest in birth control (i.e., birth-control-related searches), COVID-19 control policy, stay at home behavior, season, religious holidays, yearly trends, autocorrelation, and contextual variables such as HIV prevalence rate and socioeconomic development indicators (GINI index, urbanization, etc.). Results: When there were high levels of COVID-19 concerns in cyberspace in a given week, search volume for condoms increased from the previous week across American states and different countries/territories. By contrast, the effect of actual coronavirus threat was non-significant. Conclusion: Seeking information about condoms online could be a reactive response to high levels of COVID-19 concerns across different populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sexual health is essential to the complete well-being of every individual, and provision of all-inclusive and superior-quality information about living a healthful sexual life is necessary for everyone in a community, especially for youths. Using data collected in 2019 from 467 male and female immigrant youths between 18 and 34 years of age who resided in a suburb of the inner city of Johannesburg, this secondary analytical study examined the determining factors of sources of information about sexual health, using condoms inconsistently, and engaging in multiple sexual relationships. Binary logistic regression and negative binomial regression models were employed to understand the relationships between explanatory variables and outcome variables. The determinants of the sources of information about sexual health were gender, educational attainment level, wealth index, and age at first sexual intercourse. Gender, age group, marital status, and migration status were the determining factors for inconsistency of condom use. Gender, migration status, marital status, age at first sexual intercourse, and having had sex while drunk were the determinants of engaging in multiple sexual relationships. Avoiding behaviours that expose individuals to sexual risks and the negative consequences of unprotected sexual activity is crucial for youths. This study shows that receiving information about sexual health from informal sources and high-risk sexual behaviour are major public health problems amongst the immigrant youths.

ObjectiveTo investigate the condom use of men who have sex with men （MSM） in Shanghai， the information motivation behavioral skills model （IMB） theory was used to introduce psychosocial factors and study the relevant factors of consistent condom use （CCU） in this population.MethodsA cross-sectional study of 547 MSM in four districts of Shanghai was conducted by snowball sampling. The structural equation model based on psychosocial optimization was constructed and validated using the data collected by structured questionnaires.ResultsAmong the 547 respondents， the proportion of CCU in the past six months was 45.5%. Comparing the fitness of the initial model with that of the adjusted model， we found that the fitness of the adjusted model was good.ConclusionThe proportion of CCU among MSM in Shanghai is relatively low； In addition， information and motivation do not directly affect the CCU of this population； Only behavioral skills have a direct effect on CCU. Finally， social psychological measures should be emphasized for this population， and comprehensive and multi-level strategies should be formulated to control the spread of HIV in this population.

Regulatory Focus Theory suggests that goal pursuit is driven by two separate and fundamental motives. Being more focused on prevention motivates people to enact safer behaviors and avoid negative outcomes (e.g., to prevent diseases), whereas being more focused on promotion motivates people to take risks and pursue pleasurable experiences (e.g., condomless sex). A quasi-experimental study (N = 476) examined if differences in regulatory focus (i.e., prevention vs. promotion) determined condom use intentions with a prospective casual partner, depending on condom availability delay and STI risk cues. Participants focused on prevention (vs. promotion) were less likely to consider having condomless sex across condom availability delays conditions. However, STI risk cues changed condom use intentions. When STI risk was lower, condom use intentions decreased as condom availability delays increased (particularly for participants focused on promotion). When STI risk was higher, condom use intentions were stronger and consistent across condom availability delays (particularly for participants focused on prevention). These findings highlight the importance of distinct sexual motives when examining sexual health practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article argues that the material approach to religion can productively be extended to the domain of the secular, so as to grasp its material dimension. It investigates the Dutch field of sexual health to examine the ways in which the male condom was employed to underscore an image of religion as an obstacle to open conversations about sexual matters. It analyzes how the condom was deployed during sex education classes to evoke discussions about sexuality, but also to demonstrate the organizations' alleged comfortability with discussing these objects. I argue that, in my fieldwork, the condom materialized secularity because it was key to the introduction of what my interlocutors called "an open attitude" towards sexuality: an open appreciation of sexuality that implicitly references religion as the antithesis of a good sex education class. In doing so, the stereotypical representation of religion as prudish and constrained is reproduced and cultivated through sex education classes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sexual health is essential to the complete well-being of every individual, and provision of all-inclusive and superior-quality information about living a healthful sexual life is necessary for everyone in a community, especially for youths. Using data collected in 2019 from 467 male and female immigrant youths between 18 and 34 years of age who resided in a suburb of the inner city of Johannesburg, this secondary analytical study examined the determining factors of sources of information about sexual health, using condoms inconsistently, and engaging in multiple sexual relationships. Binary logistic regression and negative binomial regression models were employed to understand the relationships between explanatory variables and outcome variables. The determinants of the sources of information about sexual health were gender, educational attainment level, wealth index, and age at first sexual intercourse. Gender, age group, marital status, and migration status were the determining factors for inconsistency of condom use. Gender, migration status, marital status, age at first sexual intercourse, and having had sex while drunk were the determinants of engaging in multiple sexual relationships. Avoiding behaviours that expose individuals to sexual risks and the negative consequences of unprotected sexual activity is crucial for youths. This study shows that receiving information about sexual health from informal sources and high-risk sexual behaviour are major public health problems amongst the immigrant youths. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Contraceptive methods play a vital role in family planning and has been established a cornerstone in reducing maternal and infant mortality rate. Family planning is encouraged as a tool to address the reproductive health needs of men and women, as well as the pivotal problem in regard to rapid population increase. The total fertility rate in Uttarakhand is 2.1 children per woman with couple protection rate of 53%, according to National Family Health Services. Aims and Objectives: We aimed to assess the knowledge regarding contraceptives and its usage among married women of reproductive age group in urban area. Materials and Methods: The study was a cross-sectional study using a quantitative survey questionnaire of duration 5 months. Women in reproductive age-group (15–45 years) were included in the study. A total of 102 study participants were enrolled. Results: Mean ± standard deviation of study participants was 29.09 ± 5.04. "Knowledge" questions had over 90% of correct responses. The attitude of study participants toward contraceptive usage was mostly favorable. Contraception usage practice was fairly good. Conclusion: There is a need to promote positive attitude among the general public so that they can create an environment to raise awareness among the general public regarding contraception.

Background: Not long ago, the National AIDS Control Organization awakened the matter of men who have sex with men (MSM) and incorporated it as the most important group population. Targeted interventions (TI), as projected in the NACP-III, have made dauntless efforts to launch about, that this group demands an urgent and intensive attention, indicating a significant amount of departure from its previous polices. All above-mentioned reasons prompted us to undertake this study on evaluating the risk of MSM for sexually transmitted infections. Methods: A cross sectional descriptive study was conducted and all the acquired data were entered using epi info version 3.5 software and along with proper statistical procedures. Results: In the current study, 156 participants were involved, of which 90% of respondents were male and the remaining were transgender. Majority of the participants in the present study were involved in MSM activity with both regular and nonregular partners (RP)/casual partners. In the present study, 85.3% of the study participants were involved in MSM activity with a regular partner in the last 6 months, which is similar to nonregular partners reflecting high-risk activity. Conclusion: This study offers compelling evidence that MSM is more vulnerable to HIV due to a variety of variables. According to the current studies, about 37% of MSM were married. This brings up additional issues, such as the fact that women often contract HIV, because they are partners of men who are members of the population groups that are most at risk for HIV infection, such as MSM, rather than due to their own sexual behavior.

Abstract Background A number of previous sex-related studies among international students in Australia and other Western societies may be limited by conflating students from conservative and non-conservative sexual backgrounds. Such conflation leads to situations where nuances and complexities around sex-related experiences are lost or, at most, tangentially investigated. To address this research problem, this study used a mixed-methods design to examine protective practices against blood-borne viruses and sexually transmissible infections (BBVs/STIs) among Sydney-based East Asian and sub-Saharan African international students. Methods This mixed-methods study generated quantitative data using anonymous online survey (n = 149), and qualitative data through in-depth interviews (n = 20). The main recruitment strategy involved advertising the study through paper and electronic flyers. Quantitative data were analysed using logistic regression, while interviews data were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis. Results Self-reported BBVs/STIs protective practices in the last 12 months include abstinence (28.7%), consistent condom use (19.9%), occasional condom use (18.7%), single partner fidelity (25.1%), other strategies (1.8%), and nothing (5.8%). Further, findings from the bivariate analysis showed higher BBVs/STIs prevention knowledge, lower acculturation into Australian sexual culture, greater access to sexual health information, less conservative sexual norms, greater emotional social support and older age were significantly associated with increased protective practices. Variables significant at bivariate level were entered into a logistic regression. The model was statistically significant, (X 2(6) = 31.33, p

Background: Sexually transmissible infections (STI) are prevalent and increasing among young Australians. This study examined trends in STI testing, sexual health knowledge/behaviours, and pornography use in young people aged 15 – 29 years in Victoria, Australia between 2015 and 2021. Methods: Seven online cross-sectional surveys were conducted in a convenience sample of young people, recruiting a total of 7014 participants (67% female). Logistic regression analyses determined trends over time in binary outcomes. Results: There was a decrease in reports of lifetime vaginal sex over time, while lifetime anal sex remained stable. Among those who had ever had vaginal sex, results showed an increase in the use of long-acting reversible contraceptives on the last occasion of vaginal sex. There was no change in STI testing or condom use with all partner types. Knowledge of STIs and sexual health changed over time: the proportion knowing that chlamydia can make women infertile decreased over time, while knowledge that taking the pill does not reduce fertility increased. There was no change in pornography use after adjusting for demographic variables. Conclusions: Although uptake of long-acting contraceptives increased, STI knowledge and testing, as well as consistent condom use, remained low. Public health interventions should continue to address these critical components of STI prevention. Young people aged 15–29 years account for more than 70% of sexually transmissible infections (STIs) reported in Australia. This study surveyed self-reported STI testing, sexual behaviours, pornography use, and sexual health knowledge in samples of young Victorians over the period of 2015–21, captured through an online survey. Results provide current trends in sexual health behaviours and knowledge to help inform effective public health interventions for young people. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to investigate the effect of empowerment-based counseling intervention on increasing the main indices of safer sex in women with substance use disorder. The present study was a quasi-experimental research conducted on 68 at-risk women in the Compulsory Rehabilitation Center in Qom, Iran. They were assigned to two groups of intervention (n = 34) and control (n = 34) using the convenient sampling method. The data were collected using the questionnaires of demographic characteristics and the main indices of safer sex use before the intervention, 4 and 12 weeks after intervention. The intervention group received the counseling program for 6 sessions. The control group received routine services including an obstetric visit, and sex education if needed. Repeated measurement, Freidman test, t-test, and Chi-square test were used to analyze the data. Negotiation score for safe sex in intervention and control groups were 20.77 ± 3.89 and 17.46 ± 5.73, respectively. Self-efficacy of safe sex score were 20.87 ± 4.45 and 13.40 ± 4.56 in the intervention and control groups, respectively. 21 subjects (67.7%) in the intervention versus 10 (32.3%) in the control group used condoms in their last intercourse, 4 weeks after discharge (p = 0.014). Empowerment–based counseling increased the main indices of safer sex in addicted women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BackgroundContraceptive use has many advantages for personal growth and societal advancement, but there is still the problem of unmet needs for women, which highlights the gap between women's reproductive intentions and contraceptive use. This study investigated knowledge, perceptions, and factors that influence contraceptive use among married women living in a military base in Ghana.MethodsThis cross-sectional study involved 350 married women between the ages of 20 and 58 years at the Uaddara Barracks, Kumasi. A structured questionnaire was used to collect information on the background, knowledge, perceptions on contraceptive use, and contraceptive methods used by participants. Data was entered into an Excel sheet and analysed using R version 4.2.1.ResultsMost of the participants were between the age range of 36 and 40 years (25.5%). Almost all study participants (97.4%), had heard about contraceptives with 80.6% showing a high level of knowledge on contraceptives. The majority of the women (84.6%) had previously used some form of contraceptives and 53.1% presently do. More than half of the participants (69.4%) had a positive perception of contraceptive use; 80.6% responded it was their own decision to use contraceptives, and 80.3% had the support of their husbands. Husbands' support of contraception resulted in a 5 times higher usage of contraceptives among women (aOR = 5.35; p

Edao Sado Genemo,1 Ayana Tadesse Korsa,2 Habte Gebeyehu Bayisa2 1Department of Pharmacy (Pharmacoepidemiology and Social Pharmacy Unit), Institute of Health Sciences, Wollega University, Nekemte, Ethiopia; 2Department of Pharmacy (Clinical Pharmacy Unit), Institute of Health Sciences, Wollega University, Nekemte, EthiopiaCorrespondence: Ayana Tadesse Korsa, Department of Pharmacy, Institute of Health Sciences, Wollega University, P.O Box 395, Nekemte, Ethiopia, Tel +251912143175, Email Korsa.ayana02@gmail.com; ayanat@wollegauniversity.edu.etPurpose: Emergency contraceptive pills (ECPs) prevent unplanned pregnancy but not sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and the practice of ECP may affect condom use. This study, therefore, aimed to assess ECP use and its impact on condom utilization among female students of private universities in Nekemte town, western Ethiopia.Methods: An institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted on 400 female students in three different private universities from February 1 to 28, 2019. Study samples were selected through simple random sampling technique. Data collected from a structured self-administered questionnaire were analyzed using SPSS version 23.0. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression were performed to determine factors associated with condom utilization, and statistical significance was set at 95% confidence interval (CI) using a p-value of < 0.05 as a cutoff point.Results: The response rate was 95.3% (381/400). Overall, 51.4% (196/381; 95% CI = 45.1%, 57.7%) had awareness of ECP. Besides, 186 (48.8%) students reported history of sexual intercourse, of which 115 (61.8%) have ever practiced ECP and 96 (51.6%) have ever used condom. However, only 11 (5.9%) have ever utilized ECP and condom concurrently. Use of ECPs (adjusted odds ratio (AOR) = 0.32; 95% CI = 0.164, 0.632; p = 0.001), belief that condom prevents STI (AOR = 3.17; 95% CI = 1.045, 8.646; p = 0.041) and thought that ECP does not prevent STI (AOR = 2.217; 95% CI = 1.172, 4.59; p = 0.032) had statistically significant association with condom utilization.Conclusion: The practice of ECP was average, while dual method contraception use was low in the study area. History of ECP use and beliefs that ECP is not effective to prevent STI or condom protects against STI were factors associated with condom use.Keywords: condom, emergency contraception, female students, Nekemte

Background: Few studies investigate group sex among heterosexuals. The aim of this study was to provide an exploration of characteristics and practices among heterosexual men and women who engage in group sex.Method: We conducted a cross-sectional survey between May 2019 and March 2020 among heterosexual men and women attending a sexual health clinic in Melbourne, Australia. Participants were asked whether they had participated in group sex (sex involving more than two participants) in the past 3months, the size of the most recent event, sexual activities in which they engaged, and condom use.Results: Of 3277 heterosexuals surveyed (1509 women and 1768 men), the mean age was 29.9years (s.d. 8.8) and more than half (56.0%, n=1834) were born outside Australia. One in 20 participants (5.4%) had engaged in group sex in the past 3months with the number of events ranging 1-10times. Kissing was the most common activity in group sex, and women were significantly more likely to kiss a same-sex partner than men. Overall, of 165 participants who engaged in vaginal sex, 57 (34.5%) reported always using condoms and changing condoms between consecutive partners. Of the 100 men and women who had condomless vaginal sex, 79 (79.0%) received or performed fellatio after condomless vaginal sex.Conclusion: About two-thirds of heterosexuals who engaged in group sex neither used condoms nor changed condoms between partners in the most recent group sex event. Safe sex messages on changing condoms between partners and between sexual activities should be reinforced for sexually transmitted infections prevention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Whenever the word ‘feminism’ is used in any issue, the main purpose is to show the equality of sexes through movements or ideologies. Interestingly, Bollywood in the past year has taken the definition to a level that demands equality among families seeking a literate bride for their less-educated son. Referring to India known for its democracy and women empowerment, the bride has the option of being a working woman but cannot tarnish the family’s image by establishing herself in the factories or companies dealing with condom production. The reason behind it is ‘You are a Woman’! Movies namely ‘Janhit Mein Jaari’ released in 2022 and ‘Chhatriwali’ released in 2023 were taken for understanding the depiction of the feminist approach in such fictitious works. Nushrratt Bharuccha plays the role of the actress in the former film while Rakul Preet Singh is in the latter. Both are shown on ZEE5. The research problems concentrated on situations where these women are underestimated to be associated with condom-based factories and then how they proved that the job designated to them is truly meant for health and social awareness among people of all age groups irrespective of gender. Interference and cooperation of men in the family and workplace were seen in both these research problems apart from women’s involvement in the lead character’s existence. The case study was the research method for it is the common qualitative research technique and uses data sources as possible to systematically investigate individuals, groups, organizations, or events. The Heuristic characteristic of the case study method was adapted specifically to help people to understand what’s being studied. Further, Focus Group was also adapted. Feminist Film Theory and Lasswell Formula were connected to this secondary study for theoretical reference. Purposive sampling from non-probability sampling was followed to conduct the study. The research helped in understanding how Bollywood films identify the root cause of social and health problems which are generally not discussed out of shame or hesitation and come out with a solution that denizens can adopt in their daily lives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Not long ago, the National AIDS Control Organization awakened the matter of men who have sex with men (MSM) and incorporated it as the most important group population. Targeted interventions (TI), as projected in the NACP-III, have made dauntless efforts to launch about, that this group demands an urgent and intensive attention, indicating a significant amount of departure from its previous polices. All above-mentioned reasons prompted us to undertake this study on evaluating the risk of MSM for sexually transmitted infections. Methods: A cross sectional descriptive study was conducted and all the acquired data were entered using epi info version 3.5 software and along with proper statistical procedures. Results: In the current study, 156 participants were involved, of which 90% of respondents were male and the remaining were transgender. Majority of the participants in the present study were involved in MSM activity with both regular and nonregular partners (RP)/casual partners. In the present study, 85.3% of the study participants were involved in MSM activity with a regular partner in the last 6 months, which is similar to nonregular partners reflecting high-risk activity. Conclusion: This study offers compelling evidence that MSM is more vulnerable to HIV due to a variety of variables. According to the current studies, about 37% of MSM were married. This brings up additional issues, such as the fact that women often contract HIV, because they are partners of men who are members of the population groups that are most at risk for HIV infection, such as MSM, rather than due to their own sexual behavior. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The condom market expanded significantly during the Fascist period. How could the industrial production of condoms coexist with the demographic imperatives of the regime? What was the circulation and who were the target audiences for advertising of such a «prohibited product»? What were the main advertising characteristics? By analysing condoms advertising published in «Il farmacista italiano», the official journal of the «Sindacato nazionale fascista farmacisti», the essay reconstructs the evolution of the communication strategies that, in the second half of the 1930s, transformed the sale of condoms into an autarkic imperative and a patriotic duty for the «defense of the race». The analysis brings out the specific circuits of advertising for condoms, which did not aim directly at the consumer, but at an exclusive recipient: the pharmacist. As a health professional and retailer at the same time, the pharmacist had a direct link with the clientele, and so became the human pivot of the advertising process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plain language summary In Kenya, about 15% of women age 15–19 have already had a birth and approximately one third of these women did not want to have a child at that time. Yet about 45% of sexually active women ages 15–24 report that they currently use family planning (FP). Among young people, friends and peers are an important influence on behaviors. This study focused on a representative sample from Kenya of female and male youth (ages 15–24) who ever had sex. Men and women were asked questions about use of FP, if they think their peers use FP and about characteristics such as age and education. The results showed that young women and men who believed their peers use FP were more likely to use FP themselves. Also, young men and women who believed that peers use FP were more likely to use condoms than not use any FP and more likely to use condoms than to use another modern method of FP. Young women who thought their peers use were more likely to use another modern method (not including condoms) than to be a nonuser of FP. Programs targeting young people should include information on a range of FP methods and aim to include groups of peers and encourage open discussion.

Introduction: People living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) face several stressors. It is important that they get both physical, emotional, spiritual, and psychosocial support. Sexual partners are highly encouraged to offer the needed support, since, disclosure of one’s HIV status to a sexual partner can have significant health implications, that are necessary to assist in reaching the goal of an AIDS-free generation. However, little is known about the support systems offered by sexual partners. Aim: The study aimed to explore the support systems offered by the sexual partners of people living with HIV/AIDS at selected primary health care clinics in Mpumalanga. Setting: The study was conducted in three primary health care facilities offering comprehensive HIV care in the Nkangala district, Mpumalanga province South Africa. Methods: The study was qualitative. Purposive sampling was utilized to select 11 patients who were on antiretroviral treatment and receiving care from the selected primary health care facilities. The semi-structured individual interview was used to collect data. Data were analyzed using Tesch's method. Trustworthiness was ensured, and ethical principles were upheld. Results: The study findings revealed three themes describing how PLWHA are supported by their sexual partners to adhere to HIV/AIDS management; The findings show that sexual partners of people living with HIV/AIDS use various support systems to encourage adherence to HIV/AIDS management. Conclusion: The findings highlight the importance of sexual partners' support systems towards HIV/AIDS management adherence. It is therefore important for health care providers to explore ways in which sexual partners can be encouraged to provide support to their partners.

In developed countries, women bear the primary, and sometimes exclusive, responsibility for preventing pregnancy in heterosexual sexual relations. This unequal burden is not an intrinsic fact; it is the consequence of broad social narratives and interpersonal negotiations. The contraceptive counseling visit is increasingly recognized as a site of the discursive production of normative ideas about reproduction, suggesting that clinicians themselves may contribute to the assignment of responsibility for contraceptive labor to women (i.e. the feminization of contraception). Scholars have not yet considered how providers talk to patients about methods that are male body-based (i.e. condoms, withdrawal, and vasectomy) and, as such, may disrupt the feminization of responsibility for contraception. Using transcripts of 101 contraceptive counseling visits recorded between 2009 and 2012 in the San Francisco Bay Area, I investigate how clinicians discuss male body-based methods with female patients. Drawing on a constructivist approach, I find that clinicians generally devalued male body-based methods in their counseling. They did so by, first, failing to discuss them as options for long-term contraception. Second, when they did discuss them, clinicians tended to emphasize aspects of the methods that were presumed "negative" (e.g. the lower efficacy of withdrawal and condoms) but not features that patients might view positively (e.g. the high efficacy of vasectomy or the lack of side effects with condoms and withdrawal). In aggregate, these discursive practices marginalize male body-based methods as contraceptive choices. As a practical effect, this may encourage women to choose a method that does not best meet their preferences. At a structural level, by devaluing methods that could undercut the unequal division of fertility work, these discursive patterns contribute to the feminization of responsibility for contraception and the retrenchment of the unequal gendered division of fertility work.

BackgroundGiven the young structure of Iran's population and the fact that extramarital sexual relationships are both prohibited by legislation and shunned by society and religion, examining condom use practices among Iranian youth is highly important. The aim of this study was to explore condom use and its correlates among Iranian young adults.MethodsIn a sample of 3,045 individuals aged 19-29 who were recruited from a nation-wide study, we analyzed data from 633 participants who reported a history of extramarital sex. Subjects were asked about their condom use practices during their last penetrative sex. Data were collected through a self-administered questionnaire where the respondents completed the survey on their own and passed it to trained gender-matched interviewers. Multivariable regression models were constructed to report adjusted odds ratios (AOR) along with 95% CI.ResultsOf the 633 participants, 222 (35.1%) reported condom use at last sex. Men reported significantly higher condom use than women (38.5% vs. 25.7%). Having a stable job (AOR = 1.86, 95% CI: 1.01, 3.43), higher knowledge of condom use (AOR = 1.57, 95% CI: 1.03, 2.37) and sexual transmission of HIV (AOR = 1.83, 95% CI: 1.18, 2.85) were positively associated with condom use at last sex. Conversely, experience of sex under the influence of substances (AOR = 0.66, 95% CI: 0.45, 0.94) was significantly associated with reduced odds of condom use at last sex.ConclusionThis study shows that only one out of every three young adults reported using condoms at last sex. While educational programs are helpful, multi-sectoral approaches (eg, individual-, community-, and structural-level interventions) are required to change sexual behaviours towards safe sex practices and reinforce negotiating condom use among youth.

Background and Objectives: This qualitative study was conducted to identify reasons for not using condoms by people who inject drugs (PWID) in Iran. Materials and Methods: Purposeful sampling was applied to recruit four groups [male PWID (n = 14), female PWID (n=6), service providers (n=8), and HIV/Addiction experts (n = 9)] into a qualitative study. Data were collected through focus group discussions (FGDs) or individual in-depth interviews. Data were analyzed using conventional content analysis. Results: The mean age was 44.0 years for male and 38.2 for female PWID. Qualitative analysis showed 16 themes for not using a condom, which were grouped in three main categories, including knowledge (3 themes), accessibility (4 themes), and individual barriers to use condoms (9 themes). Poor knowledge included low perceived level of risk, insufficient training, and misconceptions. Lack of access to condoms resulted from the country's new policy for population growth control and decrease in the number of pharmacies and harm reduction centers and prisons where condoms were previously distributed free of charge. Common reported individual barriers to condom use were poverty, homelessness, depression, low self-care, and low self-esteem, less pleasure, having sex under the influence of drugs, and stigma. Conclusion: Both structural and individual factors may play a role as barriers to condom use among PWID.

Introduction: Internationally, trans women are disproportionately impacted by HIV, encounter specific barriers navigating safer sex and face inequities accessing HIV prevention, including pre‐exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). Aotearoa/New Zealand (hereafter Aotearoa) was one of the first countries internationally to publicly fund PrEP in 2018, including for trans people. However, few data exist on PrEP awareness or sexual negotiation among trans populations to guide implementation. We present the first Aotearoa data on trans people's ability to negotiate barrier protection and awareness of PrEP efficacy and availability. Methods: We used data from a large, diverse community‐based nationwide survey of trans (including non‐binary) people in Aotearoa: Counting Ourselves (N = 1178) conducted from 21 June to 30 September 2018. Generalized regression analyses were carried out among participants who have had sex (n = 704; Mage = 32.5) to identify associations between demographic factors (age, gender and sexual attraction, ethnicity, income, education qualification and current sex work involvement) and the Trans‐Specific Barrier Negotiation Self‐Efficacy (T‐Barrier) Scale and PrEP awareness. Results: The mean value of a 40‐point T‐Barrier Scale was 33.45 (SD: 6.89), suggesting a relatively high perceived ability among our participants to negotiate protective barrier usages in different situations. Asian participants scored 3.46 points lower compared to Pākehā (White) participants, and trans women attracted to men (cisgender and/or trans men) scored 2.40 points higher than trans women not attracted to men. Three‐fifths (59.7%) were aware that PrEP reduced HIV risks and did not prevent sexually transmitted infections (STI) transmission, and only two‐fifths (40.2%) knew PrEP was publicly funded for trans people. In multivariate models, we found participants who were older, trans women or those with lower education qualifications were less likely to have increased levels of PrEP awareness. Conclusions: Participants attracted to men have a higher potential need for PrEP and were more likely to report PrEP awareness and that they could negotiate protective barrier usage. However, trans women and those with lower educational qualifications reported lower levels of PrEP awareness. More trans‐competent sexual health education, drawing on the newly released PrEP guidelines, is needed to promote the benefits of PrEP in the Aotearoa HIV epidemic context, particularly for trans women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study describes sex trafficking and associations with violence and health among female migrants in the sex industry in Mae Sot, Thailand. The mixed-methods study included a qualitative interview phase (n = 10), followed by a cross-sectional survey phase (n = 128). Entry via trafficking (force, fraud, or coercion [FFC], or as minors) was prevalent (76.6%), primarily FFC (73.4%). FFC was associated with inconsistent condom use, inability to refuse clients, poor health, and anxiety. Past-year violence was normative including client sexual violence (66.4%), client coercion for condom nonuse (> 95%), and police extortion (56%). Working conditions enabled violence irrespective of mode of entry. Profound unmet needs exist for safety and access to justice irrespective of trafficking history. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and aims: Female sex workers (FSWs) play an essential role in the transmission of HIV and are considered critical groups compared to the public groups of society and their customers. Therefore, this study was conducted to investigate the status of sexual intercourse among prostitutes in Shiraz in 2015-2016. Methods: This is a cross-sectional study conducted on 162 prostitutes referred to Shiraz transitional damage reduction centers and the information was gathered through a checklist. Results: The results showed that the mean age at the first vaginal intercourse was 16.57±3.65. In 62.3% of people, the main reason for prostitution was the need for money to help the family. It was also found that 39.5% of prostitutes had anal sex, and more than 95% of them did not use condoms during sex. There was also a statistically significant relationship (P

The technical truth is defined here as a scientifically determined truth, validated by an epistemic community prior to ratification by political authorities. To illustrate the political uses of technical truth we have chosen the Chilean example of two lines of argument in the area of HIV prevention, both using scientific arguments. The first, which is secular, is inspired by international medical organizations and advocates the use of condoms, while the second, of Catholic inspiration, promotes abstinence and fidelity. These two technical truths clash in a public controversy, the aim of which is not to establish scientific supremacy but to exert influence on public opinion and decision makers. We will see, after an analysis that is as much of scientific as of epistemological interest, that the hesitations of the political world around these two truths resulted in a dramatic increase of new cases of AIDS in Chile.

Abstract Introduction Internationally, trans women are disproportionately impacted by HIV, encounter specific barriers navigating safer sex and face inequities accessing HIV prevention, including pre‐exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). Aotearoa/New Zealand (hereafter Aotearoa) was one of the first countries internationally to publicly fund PrEP in 2018, including for trans people. However, few data exist on PrEP awareness or sexual negotiation among trans populations to guide implementation. We present the first Aotearoa data on trans people's ability to negotiate barrier protection and awareness of PrEP efficacy and availability. Methods We used data from a large, diverse community‐based nationwide survey of trans (including non‐binary) people in Aotearoa: Counting Ourselves (N = 1178) conducted from 21 June to 30 September 2018. Generalized regression analyses were carried out among participants who have had sex (n = 704; Mage = 32.5) to identify associations between demographic factors (age, gender and sexual attraction, ethnicity, income, education qualification and current sex work involvement) and the Trans‐Specific Barrier Negotiation Self‐Efficacy (T‐Barrier) Scale and PrEP awareness. Results The mean value of a 40‐point T‐Barrier Scale was 33.45 (SD: 6.89), suggesting a relatively high perceived ability among our participants to negotiate protective barrier usages in different situations. Asian participants scored 3.46 points lower compared to Pākehā (White) participants, and trans women attracted to men (cisgender and/or trans men) scored 2.40 points higher than trans women not attracted to men. Three‐fifths (59.7%) were aware that PrEP reduced HIV risks and did not prevent sexually transmitted infections (STI) transmission, and only two‐fifths (40.2%) knew PrEP was publicly funded for trans people. In multivariate models, we found participants who were older, trans women or those with lower education qualifications were less likely to have increased levels of PrEP awareness. Conclusions Participants attracted to men have a higher potential need for PrEP and were more likely to report PrEP awareness and that they could negotiate protective barrier usage. However, trans women and those with lower educational qualifications reported lower levels of PrEP awareness. More trans‐competent sexual health education, drawing on the newly released PrEP guidelines, is needed to promote the benefits of PrEP in the Aotearoa HIV epidemic context, particularly for trans women.