Reproductive Health Research Articles

Sexually Transmitted Infections in Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis Patients

Background: Pre-exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) has revolutionized HIV prevention, but concerns exist about its potential impact on other Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs). This study aimed to assess the prevalence and patterns of STIs among PrEP users at a single urban clinic. Methods: We conducted a retrospective analysis of 100 patients on PrEP, evaluating STI diagnoses over a 12-month period. Comprehensive STI screening was performed quarterly, including nucleic acid amplification tests for chlamydia and gonorrhea at multiple anatomical sites, and serological testing for syphilis. Results: Of the 100 participants (mean age 32.5 years, 82% men who have sex with men), 42% were diagnosed with at least one STI during the study period. The most common infections were chlamydia (28%), gonorrhea (18%), and syphilis (8%). Among chlamydia and gonorrhea cases, 60.9% were rectal infections. Fifteen percent of patients experienced multiple STI diagnoses. Factors independently associated with STI diagnosis included age <30 years (OR 2.1, 95% CI: 1.3-3.4), ≥5 sexual partners in the past 6 months (OR 2.8, 95% CI: 1.7-4.6), and inconsistent condom use (OR 1.9, 95% CI: 1.2-3.0). Conclusion: This study demonstrates a high prevalence of STIs among PrEP users, emphasizing the need for comprehensive STI prevention, frequent screening, and prompt treatment in this population. While PrEP effectively prevents HIV transmission, it must be implemented as part of a holistic approach to sexual health to address the risk of other STIs.

Telehealth for HIV care and management among people living with HIV in Australia: results from an online survey.

Background The aims of this study were to evaluate the experiences of telehealth for routine HIV care and identify preferred models of HIV routine care for the future. Methods Anonymous, online questionnaire among people living with HIV aged 18years or older. This survey was advertised via posters with a QR code in six sexual health clinics and one community organisation as well as on social media from November 2021 to December 2022. Results Of 89 participants, the majority were males (80/89, 89.9%), between 36 and 55years old (49/89, 55.1%), spoke English at home (74/89, 84.1%), had been living with HIV for >5years (68/89, 76.4%) and reported having a telehealth consultation since the COVID-19 pandemic began (69/89, 77.5%). The top three liked aspects of telehealth were: the convenience of not leaving home or work (50/69, 72.5%); less travel time (48/69, 69.6%); and avoiding contact with other people (30/69, 43.5%). The top three dislikes of telehealth were: they could not be screened for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) or have a physical examination at the same time (29/69, 42.0%); it was an impersonal experience (20/69, 29.0%); and it was more difficult to discuss health concerns (18/69, 26.1%). Among all participants, the preference for future consultations was to have a mix between in-person and telehealth (40/89, 44.9%); however, nearly one-quarter prefer in-person consultations only (20/89, 22.5%). Conclusions Use of telehealth during COVID-19 has been evaluated positively among people living with HIV that participated in this survey. Participants support the use of telehealth for routine care in conjunction with in-person consultations.

Alpha-Linolenic Acid Supplementation Improves Testosterone Production in an Aged Breeder Rooster Model: Role of Mitochondrial Modulation and SIRT1 Activation.

Aging in males can lead to declines in testosterone production, essential for maintaining male reproductive health. To investigate the effects of dietary supplementation with alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) on testosterone production in aged breeder roosters and understand the underlying molecular mechanisms involved. An in vivo model is established to investigate the effects of dietary ALA supplementation on testosterone production in aged breeder roosters, and the Leydig cell culture is used to identify the potential molecular mechanism. Dietary supplementation with ALA increases in plasma testosterone. Congruently, ALA supplementation enhances the expression of testosterone biosynthesis-related enzymes. ALA supplementation exerts anti-apoptotic effects in testicular mitochondria, as evidenced by a lower expression of pro-apoptotic factors and a higher expression of the anti-apoptotic factor B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2). Moreover, In Leydig cells, ALA supplementation promotes mitochondrial biogenesis genes. The proposed mechanism is that ALA activates the sirtuin1 (SIRT1)pathway and is supported by higher SIRT1 transcript and protein in Leydig cells. Furthermore, blocking SIRT1 with siRNA reverses ALA's effects on testosterone biosynthesis and mitochondrial function-related genes. These findings indicate that dietary supplementation with ALA can improve testosterone production in aged breeder roosters, possibly by modulation of mitochondrial function via activating the SIRT1 pathway.

"It's Really Complicated": Engaging Key Stakeholders to Inform a Novel Parent-led Sexual Health Education Program for Autistic Youth.

Autistic adolescents frequently encounter difficulties in managing changes associated with puberty, sexuality, and relationships, and parents may be a useful source of sexual and reproductive health education (SRE) for this population. Despite this, few evidence-based programs exist to support parents in this role. Thus, there is a need for the development of such programs, particularly those incorporating the lived experiences of key stakeholders. The present qualitative investigation aimed to determine the SRE needs of autistic youth and to inform a novel, parent-led SRE program. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews conducted with two rounds of focus groups with two stakeholder groups: parents of autistic children (N = 4) and adult autistic self-advocates (N = 4). Focus groups were recorded and transcribed verbatim. The research team conducted rapid qualitative analysis on all four transcripts, and major findings were summarized and triangulated across groups. Four overarching themes were identified: "Empower parents as educators," "Individualize supports and education," "Consider cultural and intersecting identities," and "Prioritize safety." Parents can serve a primary role in providing SRE to autistic youth and would likely benefit from participating in a tailored program that prioritizes safety and considers the influence of culture and other aspects of identity on content delivery. Future research on the implementation of such a program is needed.

Proof-of-Concept for Long-Term Human Endometrial Epithelial Organoids in Modeling Menstrual Cycle Responses.

Endometrial disorders, such as infertility and endometriosis, significantly impact reproductive health, thus necessitating better models to study endometrial function. Current in vitro models fail to replicate the complexity of the human endometrium throughout the entire menstrual cycle. This study aimed to assess the physiological response of human endometrial organoids (hEOs) to in vitro hormonal treatments designed to mimic the hormonal fluctuations of the menstrual cycle. Endometrial biopsies from three healthy women were used to develop hEOs, which were treated over 28 days with three hormonal stimulation strategies: (1) estrogen only (E) to mimic the proliferative phase, (2) the addition of progesterone (EP) to simulate the secretory phase, and (3) the further addition of cAMP (EPC) to enhance the secretory functions of hEOs. Gene and protein expression were analyzed using qPCR, IHC, and ELISA. The hEOs exhibited proliferation, gland formation, and appropriate expression of markers such as E-cadherin and Ki67. The hormonal treatments induced significant changes in PR, HSD17B1, PAEP, SPP1, and other genes relevant to endometrial function, closely mirroring in vivo physiological responses. The prominent changes were observed in EPC-treated hEOs (week 4) with significantly high expression of uterine milk components such as glycodelin (PAEP) and osteopontin (SPP1), reflecting mid- to late-secretory phase physiology. This model successfully recapitulates human menstrual cycle dynamics and offers a promising platform for studying endometrial disorders and advancing personalized treatments in gynecology.

Effect of Rhei Radix Et Rhizome on treatment of polycystic ovary syndrome by regulating PI3K/AKT pathway and targeting EGFR/ALB in rats

Ethnopharmacological relevanceAbnormal endocrine metabolism caused by polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) poses a serious risk to reproductive health in females. According to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) theories, the leading causes of PCOS include turbid phlegm, blood stasis and stagnation of liver Qi. Rhei Radix Et Rhizome is widely used in TCM to attack stagnation, clear damp heat, relieve fire. Rhei Radix Et Rhizome is an important part of the TCM formulas for the treatment of PCOS, which has a long history of medicinal use. However, the specific effect and mechanisms of Rhei Radix Et Rhizome on PCOS have yet to be elucidated. Aim of the studyThe object of this study aimed to investigate the effect and its pharmacological mechanism of Rhei Radix Et Rhizome on the treatment of polycystic ovary syndrome. MethodsPCOS was induced in female Sprague Dawley (SD) rats by administering letrozole (1 mg/kg, per orally, p.o.) for 21 days, then treated with Rhei Radix Et Rhizome at doses of 0.6g/kg or 1.2g/kg. Rats weight, blood glucose and estrus period are measured, and serum hormone include free testosterone (T), luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and ovarian lesions were observed to determine the effects of Rhei Radix Et Rhizome. Network pharmacology and molecular docking predicted the targets of Rhei Radix Et Rhizome on PCOS. Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), albumin (ALB), PI3K and P-AKT/AKT protein expression levels in ovarian tissues were assessed by Western blot. ResultsRhei Radix Et Rhizome reduce abnormal weight and fasting blood glucose induced by letrozole (n=5, p < 0.01), and improve the disturbed estrus cycle, reduce T, LH levels and LH/FSH ratio of PCOS rats (n=4, p < 0.01). In addition, it alleviates the polycystic changes of ovaries in PCOS rats and reduces ovarian histopathological damage (n=4, p < 0.01). Additionally, the core active components of Rhei Radix Et Rhizome for PCOS include Sennoside D_qt, Procyanidin B-5,3'-O-gallate, and Mutatochrome, which strongly bind to core therapeutic targets ALB and EGFR. Furthermore, the treatment reduces the increase of EGFR and ALB induced by letrozole (n=4, p < 0.01). KEGG pathway enrichment analysis highlights endocrine resistance and prolactin signaling pathway, in both of which the PI3K/AKT pathway plays a crucial role. Our results show Rhei Radix Et Rhizome rescue the abnormal expression of PI3K/AKT pathway in PCOS rats (n=4, p < 0.01). However, no significant dose-dependent relationship was observed in the tested dose range for the above experiments. ConclusionThese findings suggest that Rhei Radix Et Rhizome can regulate the PI3K/AKT pathway and target EGFR and ALB to treat polycystic ovary syndrome in rats. This study provides a scientific basis for the use of Rhei Radix Et Rhizome in the treatment of PCOS and highlights its potential mechanism through modulation of the PI3K/AKT pathway.

Copper Oxide Nanoparticles Impair Mouse Preimplantation Embryonic Development through Disruption of Mitophagy-Mediated Metabolism.

Copper oxide nanoparticles (CuONPs) have been widely applied, posing potential risks to human health. Although the toxicity of CuONPs on the liver and spleen has been reported, their effects on reproductive health remain unexplored. In this study, we investigate the effects of CuONPs on embryonic development and their potential mechanisms. Our results demonstrate that CuONPs exposure impairs mouse preimplantation embryonic development, particularly affecting the morula-to-blastocyst transition. Additionally, CuONPs were found to reduce the pluripotency of the inner cell mass (ICM) and mouse embryonic stem cells (mESCs). Mechanistically, CuONPs block autophagic flux and impair mitophagy, leading to the accumulation of damaged mitochondria. This mitochondrial dysfunction leads to reduced tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle activity and decreased α-ketoglutarate (α-KG) production. Insufficient α-KG induces the failure of DNA demethylation, reducing corresponding chromatin accessibility and consequently inhibiting ICM-specific genes expressions. Similar reduced development and inhibitions of pluripotency gene expression were observed in CuONPs-treated human blastocysts. Moreover, in women undergoing assisted reproductive technology (ART), a negative correlation was found between urinary Cu ion concentrations and clinical outcomes. Collectively, our study elucidates the mitophagy-mediated metabolic mechanisms of CuONPs embryotoxicity, improving our understanding of the potential reproductive toxicity associated with it.

Impact of Reductive Stress on Human Infertility: Underlying Mechanisms and Perspectives.

Antioxidants have a well-established effect on general health and are essential in preventing oxidative damage to cells by scavenging free radicals. Free radicals are thought to be neutralized by these substances, which include polyphenols, β-carotene, and vitamins C and E, reducing cellular damage. On the other hand, recent data indicates that consuming excessive amounts of antioxidants may have side effects. Apoptosis and cell signaling are two beneficial physiological processes that are affected by excessive supplementation. Other negative effects include paradoxical enhancement of oxidative stress and unbalanced cellular redox potential. Overdosing on particular antioxidants has been associated with increased medication interactions, cancer progression, and fatality risks. Additionally, the complex impacts they may have on fertility might be both useful and adverse, depending on the quantity and duration of usage. This review delves into the dual role of antioxidants and emphasizes the importance of employing antioxidants in moderation. Antioxidant overconsumption may disrupt the oxidative balance necessary for normal sperm and oocyte function, which is one of the potential negative effects of antioxidants on fertility in both males and females that are also investigated. Although modest usage of antioxidants is generally safe and useful, high levels of antioxidants can upset hormonal balance, impair sperm motility, and negatively impact the outcomes of assisted reproductive technologies (ART). The findings emphasize the need to use antioxidant supplements in a balanced way, the importance of further research to optimize their use in fertility treatments, and the importance of supporting reproductive health to avoid adverse effects.

How Racism and Discrimination Impacts Black Young Women’s Sexual Health: The Influence of Racial and Sexual Stereotypes on Educational Access

PurposeStructural racism and racial discrimination may increase adverse sexual health outcomes in Black adolescent girls. However, the influence of racism on sexual health has not been well-described in qualitative studies. The purpose of this study was to explore definitions of structural racism and determine how experiences of racial discrimination impact sexual health and decision-making in a sample of adolescent Black girls. MethodsBlack girls aged 13–19 years were recruited from an ongoing longitudinal study. Virtual focus groups and individual interviews were facilitated, inquiring about understandings of structural racism, experiences with discrimination, and factors that influence sexual health decision-making and healthcare-seeking. Transcripts were professionally transcribed and coded by two independent, blinded team members. Thematic content analysis was used to identify emergent themes. ResultsFour themes emerged as follows: (1) slavery and medical racism in the United States impact the sexual and reproductive health (SRH) choices of Black girls; (2) stereotypes and oversexualization of Black girls are considered a barrier to SRH education; (3) adults serve as both barriers and facilitators to SRH and resource utilization; and (4) Black girls often seek information from friends or social media outlets to make SRH decisions. DiscussionReproductive health education for Black girls should integrate historical influences of systemic oppression. Practitioners should include reproductive justice to build trust in clinical and community spaces. Engaging caregivers in health education may reduce barriers for youth to engage in care.

Feasibility of Sexual Health and Contraceptive Web Services for Adolescents and Young Adults: Retrospective Study of a Pilot Program on Reunion Island.

Sexual health indicators for adolescents and young adults (AYAs) aged between 13 and 25 years are particularly poor on Reunion Island. Access to accurate information as well as sexual health and contraceptive services are vital to maintaining sexual well-being. Teleconsultations offer a promising approach to addressing the sexual health and contraceptive needs of AYAs who are more susceptible to engaging in unprotected sexual intercourse. However, the literature on digital sexual health services for this demographic group is limited. This study aims to describe the feasibility of a pilot sexual health and contraceptive teleconsultation web service used by AYAs on Reunion Island. A descriptive, retrospective study was conducted at the Reunion Island University Hospital Center using a convenient sample. Eligible participants were informed about the program through various communication channels, including seminars for health care professionals, radio broadcasts, posters, flyers, press articles, videos, and social media posts. AYAs accessed a web-based platform named SEXTUOZE from December 15, 2021, to September 30, 2022, that offered sexual health information and teleconsultations. Data collected included participant and teleconsultation characteristics, patient satisfaction, and the quality of completeness of medical records. A total of 22 teleconsultations were scheduled and 7 were completed, all via synchronous video communication (duration: median 35 min). Overall, 4731 sessions were generated on the SEXTUOZE website. Reasons cited for accessing the web services were to seek sexual health advice (8/22, 36%), receive an initial birth control prescription (12/22, 55%), and inquire about condom prescriptions (2/22, 9%). While teleconsultation use for sexual health was initially low, it rose toward the end of the study period. Considering all elements of the implementation theory, future research should design interventions that not only are more operative and tailored but also ensure their adoption and sustainability in various health contexts.

A qualitative exploration of the client-provider relationship and its role in discussing sexual health and HIV among African American women in the US South

ObjectiveSexually transmitted infections (STIs), including HIV, are a key contributor to psychological and physical morbidity across the United States (US). African American (AA) women are disproportionately impacted by STIs, particularly in the Deep South of the US. Strong patient-provider communication can help to increase client understanding of STI prevention and treatment options. This study aimed to explore factors influencing effective patient-provider relationships and communication around STIs (including HIV) and sexual health broadly, which will ultimately inform the refinement of a patient-provider communication tool for discussing PrEP as an HIV prevention method. MethodsAs part of a larger study focused on PrEP implementation, in-depth, semi-structured qualitative interviews were conducted among cisgender AA women who are PrEP-eligible, both with and without PrEP experience, as well as providers from three federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) and HIV service agencies in Alabama. Data were analyzed using content analysis. ResultsA total of 41 participants enrolled, including 21 clients (n = 6 PrEP experienced; n = 15 PrEP naïve) and 20 providers. Qualitative data were organized across the following domains: meaning of health and sexual health, factors influencing the client-provider relationship, and factors influencing sexual health discussions among clients and providers. Key factors influencing client-provider relationships were organized at client, provider, and clinic levels. Factors impacting sexual health discussions between clients and providers were organized at client, provider, and structural levels. ConclusionThese interviews identified key determinants of effective client-provider communication pertaining to sexual health among cisgender AA women in the US South who were receiving care at FQHCs and HIV service organizations. Individual, provider, and clinic-level factors were identified that have implications for designing sexual health interventions for cisgender AA women.

Prevalence of self-reported symptoms of reproductive tract infections and promoting an awareness of reproductive health among adolescent girls through education approach in Kumbakonam rural region of Tamil Nadu state

ABSTRACT Introduction: Adolescent females in India particularly from rural areas indicate sparse sexual and reproductive health (SRH) information and are at risk of unfavourable sexual and reproductive health outcomes. Objectives: The study was primarily intended to assess the effect of structured interventional education on awareness and practices of school-going adolescent girls about sexual and reproductive health. Methods: This was an interventional study comprising of interactive strategies, namely peer-led approach, flipped learning, skit, scenario-based discussion and puppetry. The pre- and post-test was conducted among 1232 girls in selected schools at rural block in Kumbakonam rural region of Tamil Nadu State of India. Results: The participants reported statistically significant gain in knowledge, attitudes and practices about reproductive health due to educational intervention (P &lt; 0.001). Nearly 50% of participants were aware about various contraceptive methods before intervention. The prevalence of self-reported symptoms of RTIs/STIs was 23.7%. Nearly more than half of participants were aware about various contraceptive methods. Conclusions: Peer-led education can be a potential health promotion strategy among adolescent population.

Counseling Women About Sexual Health Effects of Contraceptives.

Background: Choosing a contraceptive method is a pivotal decision for patients, whereas health care professionals (HCPs) face challenges in providing suitable recommendations. Adverse sexual effects often lead to dissatisfaction and discontinuation of contraceptives, underscoring the importance of thorough counseling and shared decision making between HCPs and patients. Objective: This article aims to investigate the relationship between contraceptive methods and female sexual function through a comprehensive review of available literature, emphasizing the importance of considering sexual health in contraceptive prescription and management. Methods: A systematic analysis of existing literature, incorporating studies utilizing validated sexual health questionnaires, was conducted to elucidate the intricate interplay between contraceptives and female sexual function. Results: The review encompasses various contraceptive methods, including combined hormonal contraceptives, progestin-only pills, depot medroxyprogesterone acetate, subdermal contraceptive implants, hormonal intrauterine devices, permanent sterilization, and barrier methods. Insights gleaned from the analysis shed light on the impact of these methods on female sexual health. Conclusion: Comprehensive understanding of the effects of contraceptives on female sexual function is crucial for both HCPs and patients. By integrating sexual health considerations into contraceptive surveillance, compliance can be improved, contraceptive efficacy optimized, and the risk of unwanted pregnancies minimized. This review underscores the significance of tailored counseling and shared decision making in contraceptive management, particularly for cisgender women.

Barriers to Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights of Migrant and Refugee Youth: An Exploratory Socioecological Qualitative Analysis

(1) Background: Migrant and refugee youth’s (MRY’s) sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHRs) are a global health issue. MRY encounter adverse SRH experiences due to limited access to and knowledge of SRHRs services. Using a socioecological framework, this study examined the barriers affecting MRY’s SRHRs. (2) Methods: A cross-sectional study utilising a participatory action research design was used. A total of 87 MRY (ages 16–26, from 20 cultural groups within Greater Western Sydney, Australia) completed seventeen focus group discussions on their SRHRs experiences. The focus groups were co-facilitated by youth project liaisons to ensure their authenticity and validity. The data were analysed thematically and interpreted using socioecological theory. (3) Results: The findings identified socioecological barriers, a lack of awareness about and access to services, and sociocultural dissonance as leading to the under-implementation of SRHRs services. These barriers included cultural disconnects, language barriers, remote service locations, intergenerational cultural conflicts, and ineffective SRHRs services. The key themes identified included traditional and institutional stigma, lack of SRH education, reliance on social media for SRH information, and privacy concerns. (4) Conclusions: There is a limited consideration of MRY’s SRHRs and the impact of intergenerational discordance and stigma on MRY’s rights. The findings suggest the necessity for a collaborative SRHRs strategy and policy design that empowers MRY’s agency across multicultural contexts.

Patterns of Infertility and Sociodemographic Characteristics among Patients with Infertility Attending Benjamin Mkapa Hospital in Tanzania: Analytical Cross-Sectional Study

(1) Background: Infertility is a global health problem that affects one of six couples worldwide, leading to significant negative impacts on their quality of life. Despite numerous studies on infertility patterns and sociodemographic characteristics, there remains a lack of clarity on these aspects among patients seeking care in Tanzania. (2) Methods: This hospital-based analytical cross-sectional study aimed to determine infertility patterns and sociodemographic characteristics among 385 randomly selected male and female patients attending the Benjamin Mkapa Hospital. Structured interviews using a clinical proforma collected data on the patterns of infertility and sociodemographic characteristics of the participants. The analysis included descriptive statistics and logistic regression. (3) Results: The findings indicated that the dominant pattern of infertility for both male and female participants was secondary infertility, accounting for 59.00% (228). Multivariate logistic regression analysis for both male and female patients revealed sociodemographic characteristics of infertility: age (38–43) years, AOR 5.068, 95% CI 1.573–16.33, p = 0.007), and duration of cohabiting or marriage of more than 10 years (AOR 0.406,95% CI 0.189–0.873, p = 0.021). (4) Conclusion: Integrating reproductive health education on appropriate fertility age into the reproductive health package and enhancing fertility care in public hospitals in Tanzania is recommended.

A qualitative study of type 1 diabetes complications, mental health, and structural pathways of complications occurrence among young people (14-24 years) and caregivers in southern Ghana

BackgroundYoung people (aged 14-24 years) living with Type 1 Diabetes (T1D), especially, those in low-resource settings risks having T1D complications, and poor mental health. Yet, little is known about T1D complications, mental health, and their lived experiences among young people and their caregivers in Ghana. ObjectiveThis article sought to understand a) the dynamics of T1D complications, mental health, and lived experiences, and b) drawing on this evidence, develop structural and behavioural pathways of T1D complication occurrence among young people in Ghana. MethodsThe study design was interpretivist phenomenology (qualitative). Twenty-eight young people living with T1D (YPLWD), 12 caregivers, and six healthcare providers across three regions in southern Ghana were purposively recruited and interviewed using interview guides. The methods included a photovoice where the YPLWD took photographs to highlight visible complications. Themes were formed from the quotes and photovoice. The analytical technique was thematic; performed with the aid of QSR NVivo 14. ResultsFour main themes which were physical complications, mental health, other adverse health outcomes, and structural pathways of complication occurrence were identified from the analyses. Physical complications discussed included visual impairment, diabetic coma, reproductive health, and kidney disease. We found on the average, eight (8) years of living with T1D (with minimum and maximum years of 2 and 4 respectively). Mental health issues including anxiety and suicidal ideation transcended YPLWD to caregivers. Multiple structural and behavioural risk factors of T1D complications were also found. ConclusionThe YPLWD and caregivers in Ghana experienced multiple T1D complications and poor mental health. Unfortunately, these manifested early in their natural history of T1D, and were influenced by inadequate structural resources and adoption of sub-optimal self-care practices. This article underscores the need to improve structural resources, promote optimal blood glucose control, alongside mental/psychosocial support for YPLWD and their caregivers in Ghana.

Toxicological effects and potential reproductive risk of microplastic-induced molecular changes in protamine-like proteins and their DNA binding

Today, plastic pollution is a widespread problem in all ecosystems and has a particularly severe impact on marine ecosystems and external fertilisers such as the mussel Mytilus galloprovincialis. The present study aims to assess the toxicological reproductive health effects in this organism following exposure to two concentrations of polystyrene microplastics (PS-MPs) (0.5 and 1 μg/L), representative of conditions in the Mediterranean Sea. After exposure, the electrophoretic pattern of protamine-like (PL) proteins, the major basic protein component of Mytilus galloprovincialis sperm chromatin, was analysed. Compared to the unexposed condition, differences were observed by SDS-PAGE and an increased ability of PL to bind and protect DNA from oxidative damage was then measured, particularly for PL from mussels exposed to 1 μg/L PS-MPs. At this dose of PS-MPs, a reduced release of all PLs from the sperm nuclei was also observed, whereas the digestion by micrococcal nuclease did not show any significant differences between the exposed and the unexposed conditions. Finally, the possibility of poly(ADP)-ribosylation of the PLs was investigated. PL-II showed an increase in poly(ADP)-ribosylation after PS-MPs exposure, which may account for the difference in the ability of the PLs to bind DNA. In conclusion, while all the results might suggest a molecular mechanism of gametic plasticity occurring upon exposure of mussels to PS-MPs 1 μg/L, they also indicate that this dose of exposure could be extremely detrimental to the reproductive health of Mytilus galloprovincialis because it could prevent the release of basic nuclear proteins from the sperm DNA at fertilisation.

Women's sexual and reproductive health.

Women's sexual and reproductive health.

Society for Birth Defects Research and Prevention Symposium: Health Disparities Within Communities of Color.

High-risk pregnancies and birth defects are often greater within communities of color where resources for a healthy pregnancy are generally lacking. Infant and maternal mortality, preterm birth, and instances of increased developmental and physical defects are related to environmental exposures (e.g., pesticides, lead in water, wildfire smoke), dietary additives, and lack of access to adequate healthcare. More frequently people of color and other under-served groups, are affected by historical inequality and unconscious bias. Compounding these disparities, research into these issues and efforts to address them are poorly supported. The speakers in this symposium presented evidence for health disparities within communities of color to foster research aimed at identifying toxic levels of potentially hazardous dietary chemicals, or exposures in the pediatric population can focus on addressing the current inadequacy of translating scientific findings into enforceable policies. The disparities discussed within this symposium highlighted key areas in desperate need of policy reform. In the United States, regulatory exposure levels have been established for lead exposures but frequently exceed these limits without mitigation. Neural tube defects can be prevented by a simple dietary solution such as fortification of staple foods with folic acid. Recent literature on gender as a social determinant of health has determined women suffer more negative health consequences due to social attitudes. Ultimately, this symposium provided an understanding of the experience of disadvantaged and marginalized persons during pregnancy, illustrated the disparities that exist in reproductive health, and described the need to address and prevent them.

Reimagining the Future of Reproduction from a Black Queer Lens: An Art-Based Approach to the Study of Reproductive Health Care

ABSTRACT Black Queer people’s reproductive experiences are largely under-documented and under-reported in health communication research, despite the omnipresence of their storytelling within humanities-based literature. Drawing from a larger health study using Black feminist perspectives and centering Black Queer people’s lived experiences with reproduction, previous health research, and Black Queer poetics, this study uses an art-based research approach to create erasure poems that detail how Black Queer birthing people resist and survive reproductive-based injustices. Specifically, through this innovative approach, I construct eight erasure poems developed from the previous insights of Black Queer people’s answer to “What is the future of reproduction?” These poems detail unparalleled truths about the needs and strategies that necessitate efforts to improve reproductive justice for my community. The poems detail Black Queer people’s discussions of the importance of community networks along our reproductive health journeys, creating new conceptualizations of motherhood and parenthood, new understandings of reproductive-based stigma and oppression, and our use of spirituality as a tool for reclaiming reproductive autonomy.