Reproductive Health Research Articles

Protective Role of Sphingosine-1-Phosphate During Radiation-Induced Testicular Injury

The impact of ionizing radiation on the male reproductive system is gaining increasing attention, particularly when it comes to testicular damage, which may result in decreased sperm quality and hormonal imbalances. Finding effective protective measures to mitigate testicular damage caused by radiation has become a focal point in the biomedical field. S1P, an essential biological signaling molecule, has garnered significant interest due to its multiple roles in regulating cellular functions and its protective effects against radiation-induced testicular injury. S1P not only effectively reduces the generation of ROS induced by radiation but also alleviates oxidative stress by enhancing the activity of antioxidant enzymes. Furthermore, S1P inhibits radiation-induced cell apoptosis by regulating the expression of anti-apoptotic and pro-apoptotic proteins. Additionally, S1P alleviates radiation-induced inflammation by inhibiting the production of inflammatory factors, thereby further protecting testicular tissue. In summary, S1P effectively reduces radiation-induced testicular damage through multiple mechanisms, offering a promising therapeutic approach to safeguard male reproductive health. Future research should explore the specific mechanisms of action and clinical application potential of S1P, aiming to contribute significantly to the prevention and treatment of radiation damage.

Correlation between Geography of Residence, Socio-Culture and Family Structure with Early Marriage In South Bangka

Background: One of four women in the world who had married before 18 years old. Bangka Belitung Islands Province was in the third highest rate of early marriage in Indonesia. This province was mostly a coastal area that had a variety of social cultures. The purpose of the study was to analyze the correlation between the geography of residence, socio-culture, and family structure with early marriage and explore these three factors. Methods: This study used a qualitative study method with 13 informants for qualitative research (5 young women and their parents, village head, Head of Religious Affairs Office, Head of Islamic Community Development Division, Ministry of Religion). Qualitative research was conducted by conducting in-depth interviews with purposive sampling and explained through transcription, coding and categorization processes. Results: Qualitative research found that the geographical factors of residence, socio-culture and family structure influence early marriage. Conclusion: The geography of residence, socio-culture and family structure influenced early marriage. Suggestion: A synergistic effort by providing reproductive health education and sexuality education to children and adolescents. Keywords: Early marriage, geography of residence, socio-cultural, family structure, South Bangka

Female Athlete Triad: Understanding the Interrelationship between Energy Availability, Menstrual Function, and Bone Health

The Female Athlete Triad (FAT) is a complex medical condition characterized by three interrelated components: low energy availability (EA) with or without disordered eating, menstrual dysfunction, and decreased bone mineral density (BMD). This syndrome is particularly prevalent among female athletes who engage in sports that prioritize leanness, endurance, and aesthetic performance, such as gymnastics, dance, and long-distance running. Prolonged exposure to inadequate caloric intake relative to energy expenditure can disrupt hormonal regulation, leading to irregular or absent menstrual cycles (amenorrhea) and compromising bone health. This cross-sectional study aims to investigate the prevalence and impact of low EA on menstrual function and BMD among 180 female athletes aged 18-30 years. Participants were divided into three menstrual status categories: eumenorrhea, oligomenorrhea, and amenorrhea. The study also categorized athletes into sports groups (aesthetic, endurance, and power sports) to identify patterns across different disciplines. Data collection included dietary intake records, exercise logs, menstrual history questionnaires, and DEXA scans to measure BMD at the lumbar spine and hip. Results indicate that 67% of participants exhibited low EA (< 30 kcal/kgFFM/day), which was significantly associated with menstrual dysfunction (p < 0.001). Among participants, 25% reported oligomenorrhea (irregular cycles), and another 25% experienced amenorrhea (absence of menstruation for more than three months). BMD analysis revealed that 30% of the athletes had osteopenia, while 5% were diagnosed with osteoporosis, highlighting the long-term risks associated with chronic low EA and menstrual irregularities. Notably, athletes engaged in aesthetic sports had the highest prevalence of low EA (80%) and menstrual dysfunction (45%), followed closely by those in endurance sports. These findings underscore the urgent need for targeted interventions to promote energy balance, safeguard reproductive health, and prevent bone deterioration among female athletes. Educational programs focusing on nutritional counseling, regular monitoring of menstrual health, and multidisciplinary care involving coaches, sports dietitians, and healthcare providers are essential to mitigate the risks of the Female Athlete Triad. Future research should further explore psychological factors influencing energy availability, including body image concerns and disordered eating patterns, to develop comprehensive prevention strategies.

The Impact of Kahoot and ChatGPT Educational Technologies on Nursing Students’ Sexual Health Knowledge and Attitudes: A Quasi-Experimental Study

The Impact of Kahoot and ChatGPT Educational Technologies on Nursing Students’ Sexual Health Knowledge and Attitudes: A Quasi-Experimental Study

Targeted microwave ablation of localised prostate cancer: Initial results of VIOLETTE trial

AbstractObjectiveThe aim of this study was to assess the precision and safety of targeted microwave ablation (TMA) using organ‐based tracking (OBT) fusion, in patients with intermediate risk prostate cancer.Patients and methodWe conducted a prospective, multicentric trial. Eligible patients had a prostate‐specific antigen (PSA) < 20 ng/mL, a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)‐visible index tumour of Gleason score 3 + 4, with largest axis ≤15 mm and distant of at least 5 mm from the rectum and apex. TMA was performed with microwave needle applicator using OBT fusion, with a transperineal or a transrectal approach. In this interim analysis, we evaluated precision, safety, urinary and sexual outcomes, and PSA density kinetics.ResultsAt this point, 37 patients were treated in five centres. Median (interquartile range) age is 68 (63–72) years. Baseline median prostate volume and PSA are of 45 (34–57) mL and 8 (6.2–10.8) ng/mL, respectively. Median largest tumour axis on T2W MRI is of 11 mm (10–13). Patients were treated under general anaesthesia or conscious IV sedation in an outpatient setting. Anaesthesia had a median duration of 78 (66–90) min. A median number of 3 (2–4) 12‐W ablations of 2 to 5 min were performed per patient. After a median follow‐up of 6 (2.4–10) months, we observed 58 adverse events (AE) in 22 patients. These were of Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events (CTCAE) grade 1, 2 and 3 in 43 (74%), 13 (22%) and 2 (4%) cases. Six (15%) patients had an acute urinary retention, five of which considered as severe AE because of rehospitalisation. We did not observe any significant difference in International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), Male Sexual Health Questionnaire‐ejaculatory dysfunction (MSHQ‐EjD) and International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF5) from baseline to last follow‐up. Median PSA density evolved from 0.2 (0.1–0.3) at baseline to 0.1 (0.07–0.16) at 12 months.ConclusionsThese preliminary results suggest that TMA using OBT fusion is precise and safe in patients with intermediate risk localised prostate cancer. Further inclusions and follow‐up are needed to assess oncological outcome.

Protocol for a qualiquantitative study of accessibility of sexual and reproductive health services among women with motor disabilities in Morocco

Introduction Approximately 1.3 billion people worldwide live with a disability, underlining the need for equitable health care for this group is important. Inclusive health systems are consistent with global health priorities, respond to United Nations sustainable development goals and economically viable. Despite advancements in Morocco’s health system and legal framework, significant disparities remains inaccessing sexual and reproductive health (SRH) services for women with disabilities. This study explores barriers and facilitators affecting access to SRH services for these women, aiming to provide recommendations for more inclusive services and improved health outcomes. Methods Using a mixed approach, this study assessSRH access for women with motor disabilities in two cities in Morocco, selected for their socio-demographic, cultural and and healthcare diversity. Quantitative data will be generated through questionnaires administrered to 400 participants, while qualitative information will come from 20 to 30 interviews. Recruitment involves working with health professionals, NGOs and social media campaigns to ensure a diverse sample. Data analysis includes NVivo for qualitative data and descriptive/inferential statistics for quantitative data. Conclusion The study aims to explore the perspectives of women with disabilities and health professionals regarding SRH services. It will provide recommendations for making SRH services more equitable and inclusive, ultimately improving health out comes and uphold health rights for women with disabilities.

Risky Reproductive Health Behavior and Information Access on Adolescents: Qualitative and Quantitative Analysis

Adolescence is a vital period of development marked by confusion, a range of emotions, and an understanding of adult behavior, the environment, enthusiasm, and an inclination to explore, particularly with drugs, alcohol, and sex. This study outlines adolescents' knowledge, attitude, access to information and risky behaviors related to reproductive health. This study employed a concurrent triangulation design, using mixed methodologies. The chi-square test was used to examine this form of quantitative study. The focus groups and in-depth interviews with teenagers in several agencies, along with the accompanying teachers and parents, provided qualitative information for this study. Adolescents had greater access to knowledge about reproductive health issues, but the majority were unable to make effective use of this information. Numerous risky habits, including drug use, also set off unsafe sexual behaviors. In contrast to their parents or professors, teenagers increasingly feel more at the ease of sharing stories with their friends. It is intended that parents and educators will act in a peer-like manner by imitating teenagers’ social cues. Quantitative analysis revealed relationships among information access, attitude, knowledge, and reproductive behavior. Teenagers typically have higher knowledge of their reproductive health. However, the majority of them struggle to put this knowledge into practice, and as a result, many engage in risky sexual behavior out of curiosity.

Sexual health in menopausal women with symptoms of pelvic floor disorders.

Sexual dysfunction in women is usually associated with the menopausal transition and menopause; however, there are factors that can also influence the sexual function of women in menopause. The aim of this study is to determine the association between pelvic floor disorders and sexual dysfunction in women in menopause. A cross-sectional study was carried out in Spain with menopausal women recruited by convenience sampling. Data were collected on background and health status. To evaluate the presence of pelvic floor problems, the Pelvic Floor Distress Inventory (PFDI-20) was used. Regarding the evaluation of female sexual function, the validated Sexual Function of Women (FSM-2) tool was used. Crude (OR) and adjusted odds ratios (AOR) were obtained using the SPSS 28.0 statistical program. A total of 197 women participated. The mean age was 57.7 years (SD=8.4), 51.3% (101 women) reported experiencing some form of sexual dysfunction. Despite this, the majority (79.5%; 155 women) indicated that they were satisfied with their sexual health. However, 25.5% (50 women) mentioned they faced difficulties when trying to initiate sexual intercourse. Additionally, 22.9% (45 women) reported having moderate to severe issues achieving orgasm. Furthermore, 29% (57 women) stated that they had never or only occasionally felt arousal in the past month. Women who experienced urinary incontinence and pelvic pain had a higher frequency of sexual dysfunction. The main associated factor observed was the risk of pelvic floor dysfunction through the PFDI-20 scale. For each point of this instrument, there was a small but increased risk of sexual dysfunction (OR=1.01; p<0.001). Type of birth or maternal disorders, such mental illness or gastrointestinal disorder, did not show any statistical association with sexual dysfunction. Pelvic floor dysfunctions symptoms in menopausal women are associated with their sexual health. Pelvic floor dysfunctions that influence sexual function are colorectal, urinary, and prolapse. Pelvic floor disorders such as urinary incontinence and pelvic pain are those that most influence sexual function.

Undernutrition and associated factors among adolescent girls in Diga District, East Wollega Zone, Ethiopia

Background Undernutrition is a significant challenge for adolescent girls globally due to biological, social, and cultural factors. The consequences of undernutrition for adolescent girls are extensive, impacting their cognitive abilities, reproductive health, susceptibility to chronic diseases in later life, and the economies of nations. However, there needs to be a more comprehensive understanding of the nutritional status of adolescent girls in the Diga district, Ethiopia. Objective This study aimed to assess the prevalence of undernutrition and its associated factors among adolescent girls in the Diga District, East Wollega Zone, Ethiopia. Methods The study employed a community-based cross-sectional study design in Diga District, Ethiopia. Data was gathered from 651 study participants using a systematic random sampling technique, from July 10th to August 10th, 2023. Data analysis involved using Epi-Data 4.6 and SPSS version 26 for data entry and statistical analysis, respectively. The Body Mass Index (BMI) and Height-for-age (HFA) Z-score are generated using WHO AnthroPlus version 1.0.4 software. Descriptive statistics and binary logistic regressions were used for data summarization and analysis, with significance testing at a p-value &lt;0.05. Results In this study, 16.3% (95% CI: 13.5–19.3) of adolescent girls were stunted, while 18.5% (95% CI: 15.4–21.5) were thin. Lack of access to health and nutrition information (AOR = 3.36, 95% CI: 1.38–8.23), limited crop variety within household’s crops (AOR = 1.66, 95% CI: 1.03–2.65), and household food insecurity (AOR = 2.76, 95% CI: 1.49–5.11) were factors associated with stunting. Poor dietary diversity scores (AOR = 7.52, 95% 95% CI: 2.92–19.39) and household food insecurity (AOR = 3.69, 95% CI: 1.96–6.93) were significantly associated with thinness. Conclusion Conclusively, there was a low prevalence of stunting and thinness among adolescent girls in the Diga district, Ethiopia. Interventions aimed at enhancing household-level crop diversity, improving food security, providing adequate health and nutrition information, and promoting income-generating activities for adolescent girls can play a crucial role in improving their access to nutritious foods and healthcare, ultimately leading to better nutritional outcomes.

Factors associated with teenage pregnancy among refugees in Palabek refugee settlement, Northern Uganda

BackgroundGlobally, teenage pregnancy is a public health problem. Low- and middle-income countries in the Sub-Saharan region are more affected with teenage pregnancy. It is worse with teenage girls who have other vulnerabilities like living in refugee camps. However, there is little information about teenage pregnancy in refugee camps especially in resource limited areas like Northern Uganda.ObjectiveTo determine the prevalence and the factors associated with teenage pregnancy among refugees in Palabek refugee settlement, Northern Uganda.MethodsThis was a cross-sectional study conducted among teenage girls in Palabek refugee settlement in Northern Uganda. The study estimated a total sample size of 316 teenage girls and they were sampled using systematic random sampling. Data was collected using researcher administered questionnaire. Conditional logistics regression was employed to identify the associated factors for teenage pregnancy.ResultsA total of 306 teenagers participated in the study with a response rate of 98.6%. The study showed that the prevalence of teenage pregnancy among teenage girls in Palabek refugee settlement, Northern Uganda was 41.2%. The factors associated with teenage pregnancy among teenage girls in Palabek refugee settlement included: being in the 15–19 years age group (AOR = 6.3, 95%CI: 1.8–22.8), not being in school (AOR = 5, 95%CI: 2.3–10.9), not being married (AOR = 0.2, 95%CI: 0.1–0.5), delayed sexual debut (AOR = 2.4, 95%CI: 1.1–5.5), having multiple sexual partners (AOR = 0.3, 95% CI: 0.1–0.7), alcohol use (AOR = 6.7, 95%CI: 2.2–18.4), being aware of sexual reproductive health services (AOR = 0.4, 95%CI: 0.2–0.9), and having divorced families (AOR = 2.4, 95% CI: 1.2–4.9).ConclusionStudy results reveal that 4 in 10 teenage girls in Palabek, Northern Uganda, are pregnant, influenced by individual, community, and health system factors. This highlights vulnerabilities in refugee camps, urging prioritization of sexual and reproductive health for adolescent girls in refugee camps.

Effectiveness of Intake of Aloe Vera Juice in Reducing the Symptoms of Poly Cystic Ovarian Syndrome among Reproductive Age Group in Tertiary Care Hospital, Puducherry, India

Introduction: Polycystic ovarian syndrome is a health disorder that is prevalent among women in the child bearing age. This disease is described by the development of multiple cysts in the ovaries due to inability of follicles to release mature eggs. To evaluate the effectiveness of intake of aloe vera juice in reducing the symptoms of poly cystic ovarian syndrome among reproductive age group . Methods: Polycystic ovarian syndrome is a health disorder that is prevalent among women in the child bearing age. This disease is described by the development of multiple cysts in the ovaries due to inability of follicles to release mature eggs. Results: The finding shows that the experimental group had significant positive changes in the normal uterine size by 10% to 23.3% and positive changes in the right and left ovaries sizes which can imply that Aloe Vera has therapeutic effect on reproductive health. Post-assessment comparison revealed significant differences in uterus and left ovary sizes between the groups, with p-values of 0.005 and 0.004, respectively. Conclusion: The study concluded that aloe vera juice is effective in reducing the symptoms of poly cystic ovarian syndrome among reproductive age group. However, the results of this study need to be confirmed with larger samples and longer follow-up studies designed and powered for safety outcomes.

Knowledge and attitudes on anemia and menstrual health among Malaysian female university students

Anemia is a significant public health concern, particularly among young female adults due to its potential impact on reproductive health. This study investigated the association between anemia-related knowledge, attitudes, menstrual health, and anemia status among Malaysian university students. This was a cross-sectional study named “SCARF” - Study to Combat Anemia - Research for Female Students, involving 674 university students in Malaysia. Anemia status was determined based on haemoglobin level, while knowledge, attitude and menstrual health were measured using validated questionnaires. The mean menarche age of students in this study was 12.1 ± 1.21 years. Students who were anemic had significantly longer menstrual cycle duration (P = 0.034) and more days with heavy flow (P = 0.038). Most students had poor knowledge (44.5%) and attitudes (84.1%) towards anemia. Students with good knowledge were 1.1 times more likely to have better anemia status compared to those with poor knowledge (95% CI: 1.0–1.2, P = 0.049). This study highlighted a lack of practical application of the knowledge to dietary habits. Collaborative efforts between educators and healthcare providers are crucial in developing a comprehensive strategy, such as interventions to prioritise educational initiatives and practical support to enhance overall menstrual health among female students.

Accessibility factors associated with adherence to healthy timing and spacing of pregnancy among women of reproductive age in Kilifi County, Kenya

Background: Globally, about 25% of births occur with shorter intervals annually with over 12 million underage pregnancies mostly from Sub-Saharan Africa. Kenya records about 20% teenage pregnancies while Kilifi County reported 28.9%. In Kilifi County, 19.6% of births do not adhere to the 24-month birth-interval. The study focused on establishing accessibility factors associated with adherence to healthy timing and spacing of pregnancy (HTSP) among reproductive age women in Kilifi County, Kenya. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional design was adopted with a sample of 293 respondents. All required approvals and consent were obtained. Quantitative data was collected using questionnaires. Descriptive data was analyzed using SPSS version 22.0 and inferential statistics computed through Chi-square tests. Results: About 60.1% respondents adhered to heathy timing and spacing of pregnancy, 69.4% teenage pregnancies occurred and 67.1% of women adhered to the 24-month inter-birth interval. Availability of family planning (FP) services (p=0.008), experience with providers (p=0.005), cost of accessing FP (p=0.001) and source of information (p=0.002) were associated with HTSP. Conclusions: About 4 out of 10 women of reproductive age in Kilifi County do not adhere to the recommended HTSP. Accessibility factors such as cost and availability of family planning services, source of information and experience with healthcare providers significantly influenced adherence to HTSP. The Ministry of Health and relevant stakeholders should scale up awareness activities, provide mobile clinics and concentrate on regular continuous medical education among healthcare providers to enhance their role in provision of reproductive health services.

Correlation of IGF2 levels with sperm quality, inflammation, and DNA damage in infertile patients.

Insulin-like growth factor 2 (IGF2) is a critical endocrine mediator implicated in male reproductive physiology. To investigate the correlation between IGF2 protein levels and various aspects of male infertility, specifically focusing on sperm quality, inflammation, and DNA damage, a cohort of 320 male participants was recruited from the Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine (Hangzhou, China) between 1st January 2024 and 1st March 2024. The relationship between IGF2 protein concentrations and sperm parameters was assessed, and Spearman correlation and linear regression analysis were employed to evaluate the independent associations between IGF2 protein levels and risk factors for infertility. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used to measure IGF2 protein levels in seminal plasma, alongside markers of inflammation (tumor necrosis factor-alpha [TNF-α] and interleukin-1β [IL-1β]). The relationship between seminal plasma IGF2 protein levels and DNA damage marker phosphorylated histone H2AX (γ-H2AX) was also explored. Our findings reveal that IGF2 protein expression decreased notably in patients with asthenospermia and teratospermia. Correlation analysis revealed nuanced associations between IGF2 protein levels and specific sperm parameters, and low IGF2 protein concentrations correlated with increased inflammation and DNA damage in sperm. The observed correlations between IGF2 protein levels and specific sperm parameters, along with its connection to inflammation and DNA damage, underscore the importance of IGF2 in the broader context of male reproductive health. These findings lay the groundwork for future research and potential therapeutic interventions targeting IGF2-related pathways to enhance male fertility.

Reproductive Toxicity and Multi/Transgenerational Effects of Emerging Pollutants on C. elegans

Emerging pollutants (EPs) are receiving increasing attention due to the threats they pose to the environment and human health. As EPs continue to emerge, risk assessment requires many model animals. Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans) has been an outstanding toxicological model organism due to its growth and development characteristics. Particularly, in studying the transgenerational influences of EPs, C. elegans has advantages in saving time and cost due to its short generation cycle. As infertility has become a major problem in human reproductive health, reproductive toxicities of EPs on contemporary nematodes and across generations of C. elegans were introduced in this review. Moreover, the underlying mechanisms involved in germ cell apoptosis, spermatogenesis, and epigenetic alteration were discussed. Future research opportunities and challenges are also discussed to expand our understanding of the reproductive influences of EPs.

An optimized fractionation method reveals insulin-induced membrane surface localization of GLUT1 to increase glycolysis in LβT2 cells

Insulin is an important regulator of whole-body glucose homeostasis. In insulin sensitive tissues such as muscle and adipose, insulin induces the translocation of glucose transporter 4 (GLUT4) to the cell membrane, thereby increasing glucose uptake. However, insulin also signals in tissues that are not generally associated with glucose homeostasis. In the human reproductive endocrine axis, hyperinsulinemia suppresses the secretion of gonadotropins from gonadotrope cells of the anterior pituitary, thereby linking insulin dysregulation to suboptimal reproductive health. In the mouse, gonadotropes express the insulin receptor which has the canonical signaling response of IRS, AKT, and mTOR activation. However, the functional outcomes of insulin action on gonadotropes are unclear. Here, we demonstrate through use of an optimized cell fractionation protocol that insulin stimulation of the LβT2 gonadotropic cell line results in the unexpected translocation of GLUT1 to the plasma membrane. Using our high purity fractionation protocol, we further demonstrate that though Akt signaling in response to insulin is intact, insulin-induced translocation of GLUT1 occurs independently of Akt activation in LβT2 cells.

"I Don’t has the Desire to has Sex”: Quality of Life and Sexual Concerns of Women with Secondary Infertility in the Tamale Metropolis

Background Infertility adversely affects the general quality of life and sexual satisfaction among women. This study explored the quality of life and sexual concerns among women with secondary infertility in the Tamale metropolis. Methods A qualitative exploratory descriptive design was used. Individual in-depth interviews were conducted using a semi-structured interview guide. Ethical approval was received from the Ghana Health Services ethics review committee. Fourteen (14) participants with secondary infertility receiving treatment at the Tamale Teaching Hospital were purposively selected and interviewed for the study, each lasting about 30 minutes to one hour. The interviews were audiotaped with permission from the participants, transcribed verbatim and content analyzed. Conclusion The findings from this study revealed that happiness, well-being and value in life were compromised among these women. Concerning sexual satisfaction, the majority of the participants experienced low sexual drive and physical pain during sexual intercourse which led to poor sexual satisfaction. There is a need for more exploration into the sexual health of women with infertility

How can HIV self-testing facilitate increased access to HIV testing among multiply marginalised populations? Perspectives from GBMSM and trans women in England and Wales

Background HIV self-testing (HIVST) may facilitate marginalised populations’ uptake of HIV testing, but whether the extent of marginalisation challenges individual uptake of HIVST remains under-researched. We aim to explore the perspectives of multiply marginalised cis-gender gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men (GBMSM) and trans women on whether HIVST might increase their uptake of HIV testing. Methods We reanalysed qualitative interview data from SELPHI (the UK’s largest HIVST randomised trial) collected between 2017 and 2020 from marginalised populations, defined as people self-identifying as non-heterosexual, transgender, non-White ethnicity and/or with low educational attainment. Thirty-eight interviews with multiply marginalised individuals were thematically examined using the framework method. We specifically focussed on kit usability (a function of the interaction between blood-based HIVST kits and users), perspectives on how HIVST can improve access to HIV testing and suggestions on need-based scale-up of HIVST. Results HIVST kits were considered usable and acceptable by multiply marginalised GBMSM and trans women. The majority of interviewees highlighted multi-levelled barriers to accessing HIV testing services due to structural and social marginalisation. Their multiply marginalised identities did not impede HIVST uptake but often form motivation to self-test. Three potential roles of HIVST in the HIV testing landscape were identified: (1) alternation of HIVST and facility-based testing, (2) integration of HIVST into sexual health services and (3) substituting facility-based testing with HIVST in the future. Perceived beneficiaries of HIVST included trans communities, individuals with undisclosed sexuality and people with physical disabilities. Discussion HIVST can facilitate marginalised populations’ access and uptake of HIV testing by alternating with, integrating into and substituting for facility-based services in the UK. Marginalised identities did not present challenges but rather opportunities for person-centred scale-up of HIVST. Future implementation programmes should ensure equitable access to HIVST among trans people, men unable to disclose their sexuality, and perhaps people with physical disabilities.

Efficacy and Safety of Non-Ablative Dual Wavelength Diode Laser Therapy for Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause: A Single-Center Prospective Study.

This study evaluates the efficacy and safety of non-ablative diode laser therapy for genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM) in post-menopausal women unable to use hormonal therapies. A pilot prospective study was conducted from September 2023 to April 2024, involving 22 post-menopausal women aged 45-73years. Participants underwent three sessions of diode laser treatment with the Leonardo® dual-wavelength Diode laser. Assessments were made at baseline, 3months, and 6months post-treatment. Main outcome measures included Visual Analog Scale (VAS) scores for GSM symptoms, Vaginal Health Index Score (VHIS), and sexual function evaluated using the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI-6), Pelvic Organ Prolapse/Urinary Incontinence Sexual Questionnaire (PISQ-12), and Sexual Quality of Life-Female (SQOL-F) questionnaire. Significant improvements were observed in VHIS, increasing from 12 to 19.27 at 6months (p<0.001). GSM symptoms improved significantly: vaginal dryness scores decreased from 7.72±2.37 to 3.72±2.53, burning sensation scores dropped from 6.00±3.22 to 1.90±1.81, and dyspareunia scores reduced from 8.09±2.11 to 3.90±2.58 (all p<0.016). Sexual function improved, indicated by FSFI-6 scores increasing from 12.27±7.29 to 19.30±6.24 (p<0.016) and SQOL-F scores rising from 63.18±22.93 to 71.45±23.31. No adverse events were reported. Non-ablative diode laser therapy is effective and safe for managing GSM symptoms in post-menopausal women, offering significant symptom relief and enhancing sexual health without serious side effects. Further research with a larger cohort and extended follow-up is needed to confirm these findings. Clinical Trials ID NCT06503003.

Sexual health communication targeting adolescents in public service Media: the case of Finland

Abstract Background Given the substantial time adolescents spend online, sexual health promotion and education through online media constitute a promising public health action. However, monitoring of sexual health-related online media content is warranted, and considering the scope and aims of public service media, this forum can be regarded as being of particular interest. This study aimed to analyze how and to what extent sexuality and sexual health-related content targeting adolescents is communicated and portrayed in public service media in Finland, with a particular interest in health promotion perspectives and participatory practices. Methods Based on predetermined inclusion criteria and guidance from professionals at the Finnish public service company Yle, podcasts were specified as the media format of interest. Three Finnish podcasts (a total of 66 episodes) produced during the years 2021-2023, targeting young people and focusing on sexual health, were included in this study and subject to critical content analysis. Results Most podcast episodes focused equally on the sexual health resource and risk perspectives, while a third emphasized a resource perspective. Concerning participatory practices, adolescents participate in only five episodes in total, and most often, the podcast hosts’ own experiences are at the center of the episodes. Conclusions The findings highlight how sexuality and sexual health content is communicated in public service media podcasts targeting adolescents in Finland, as well as how the communication aligns with health education and promotion guidelines. The study sheds light on participatory practices, emphasizing a lack of stakeholder involvement, i.e., dialogue between podcast hosts and listeners. Results carry implications for developing sexual health promotion through public service media targeting young people in Finland and other European countries alike. Key messages • The findings highlight how sexuality and sexual health content is portrayed in public service media podcasts in Finland and how the communication aligns with health promotion values and principles. • The findings show a lack of participatory practices in Finnish public service media podcasts targeting adolescent sexual health - a health promotion concern also pertinent to other countries.