Unprotected Intercourse Research Articles

An observational study of diagnostic hysterolaparoscopy for evaluation of infertility at a tertiary care hospital

Infertility is an illness recognised by the World Health Organisation (WHO) that refers to the inability to achieve a clinical pregnancy after engaging in regular, unprotected sexual intercourse for a period of 12 months or more. The incidence of primary infertility in India ranges from 3.9% to 16.8%. Hysteroscopy has emerged as a crucial technique for diagnosing infertility, providing a direct view of the uterine chamber to detect any possible abnormalities. The objective of this research is to analyse the use of diagnostic hysterolaparoscopy (DHL) in the evaluation of infertility. This research was a retrospective observational study that included 150 female patients who had a previous history of infertility. The study was done from May 2022 to September 2023. Information on the social and demographic characteristics of individuals and their medical history pertaining to infertility were collected by conducting interviews using a pre-tested, semi-structured questionnaire. Every participant took Dual-Hemisphere Language testing, and the gathered data were organised in Microsoft Excel. The significance threshold was established at 5% with a significance level of α = 0.05.: Out of the 150 patients that received DHL, 89 (59.33%) had primary infertility, whereas 61 (40.67%) had secondary infertility. Laparoscopy detected abnormalities in 35 (39.3%) of the individuals with primary infertility and 26 (42.6%) of the cases with secondary infertility. Abnormalities identified during hysteroscopy were 12 (13.4%) of the individuals with primary infertility and in 6 (9.83%) of the cases with secondary infertility. The prevalent abnormalities detected during hysteroscopy were uterine synechiae, fibroids, and uterine septa. The incidence of tubal obstructions was higher in the primary infertility group compared to the secondary infertility group.Diagnostic hysterolaparoscopy (DHL) is a very useful method for assessing infertility, namely in identifying adnexal adhesions, endometriosis, and uterine septa. In addition, DHL has the ability to detect several structural abnormalities in the uterus, fallopian tubes, and pelvis, which may assist in formulating suitable treatment strategies. So, both diagnostic and therapeutic intervention can be done at same sitting.

HIV incidence and recreational drug use among men who have sex with men aged 18-24 years in Tianjin, China: a retrospective cohort study.

Recreational drug use has been identified as a significant risk factor for the transmission of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). This behavior is particularly prevalent among young men who have sex with men (YMSM). However, limited research has been conducted to investigate the correlation between recreational drug use and HIV incidence within this population. To examine HIV incidence and explore the association between recreational drug use and HIV incidence among YMSM. A retrospective cohort study was conducted by a local non-governmental organization (NGO) among MSM aged 18-24 years from October 2017 to December 2023 in Tianjin, China. Participants were included if they had at least two HIV test records during this period. HIV incidence density and its 95% confidence interval (CI) were calculated using person-years (PYs) with a Poisson distribution. Risk factors for HIV incidence were identified using univariable and multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression models. A total of 56 HIV seroconversions were reported with 2901.9 PYs, resulting in an overall incidence density of 1.9/100 PYs (95% CI: 1.4-2.4). Among YMSM who do not use recreational drugs (YMSM-URD), the incidence density was 1.1/100 PYs (95% CI: 0.5-1.6), while it was 2.8/100 PYs (95% CI: 1.9-3.7) among those who do use recreational drugs (YMSM-RD). Adjusted for confounders, factors associated with HIV infection included recreational drug use (adjusted hazard ratio = 2.6, 95% CI = 1.4-4.7) and unprotected anal intercourse in the past six months (adjusted hazard ratio = 2.3, 95% CI = 1.2-4.4). Recreational drug use and unprotected anal intercourse significantly increase the risk of HIV infection. To effectively mitigate the spread of HIV, interventions should focus on these risk factors by employing HIV counseling and testing clinics, collaborating with NGOs focused on MSM, and establishing peer education programs aimed at YMSM.

Effect of Ksheerbasti and Uttara Basti on Endometrial Fibrosis Induced Infertility (Kshetra Dushti Janya Vandhyatva) - A Case Report

Infertility is a disease of male or female, defined by the failure to achieve a pregnancy after 12 months or more of regular unprotected sexual intercourse. Fibrous scaring of the uterine cavity not only decreases fertility (via impairing embryo implantation) but is also associated with an increased risk of miscarriage and other obstetric conditions. Here is a case study of a 30-years-old female patient residing in Jaipur who consulted in OPD of the National Institute of Ayurveda (NIA) Jaipur on 30-9-23 with the chief complaint of being unable to conceive since 5 years. Her diagnostic Laproscopy & Hysteroscopic findings were suggestive of multiple subserosal fibroid & fibrosed endometrium. Patient was treated with Ayurvedic regime for 5 cycle considered as a Kshetra Dusthi Janya Vandhyatva. The patient missed her period on 8-03-24 and did her urine pregnancy test on 19-3-24, which was found to be positive. From this case study, it is concluded that Ayurvedic intervention are effective in treating infertility due to Endometrial Fibrosis (Kshetra Dushti Janya Vandhyatva).

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.

Quality of Life among Men and Women Diagnosed with Infertility in Khyber, Pakhtunkhwa

Background: Infertility is a sensitive global issue, characterized by a couple's inability to conceive or maintain a pregnancy. Infertility is classified into two types: primary infertility, where a couple has never achieved pregnancy, and secondary infertility, where a couple cannot conceive or maintain a pregnancy after engaging in unprotected intercourse. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the quality of life among men and women diagnosed with infertility in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Methodology: The study used a cross-sectional design and was conducted in outpatient clinics in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa with a sample of infertile individuals (n=377). Quality of life among infertile couples was assessed using the standardized FERTIQOL instrument, with additional variables relevant to the study context. Results: The results showed that the average quality of life score for infertile couples was 63.84 out of a possible 120. According to the FERTIQOL assessment, the emotional wellbeing score was low at 14.29, and the mind-body score was also poor at 15.49. The relational score, at 18, was considered average, while the social domain score of 16.05 indicated a poor quality of life. The study also examined associations between quality of life and various sociodemographic factors, including age, gender, education, income, and type of infertility. Although most of these variables were not statistically significant, gender and education were found to be significantly associated with quality of life, with p-values of 0.00 and 0.16, respectively. Conclusion: Based on these findings, it can be concluded that infertile couples experience a low quality of life.

HIV-1 transmission clusters and drug resistance in men who have sex with men in Portugal

Abstract Introduction In 2022, 45.8% of diagnoses in the EU/EEA with known route of transmission were in Men who have Sex with Men (MSM). We aim to characterise HIV transmission clusters and transmission of drug resistance (TDR), as well as its determinants, using integrated sociodemographic, behavioural, clinical, and viral genomic data of MSMs newly diagnosed in Portugal between 2014 and 2019. Methods This study included data from 340 MSM who were diagnosed with HIV-1 infection. These individuals were newly diagnosed at 17 hospitals in Portugal between September 2014 and December 2019. Phylogenies were constructed and transmission clusters were identified with branch support ≥ 90% and 1.5% genetic distance. Logistic regression models were computed to examine the factors associated with clusters of transmission and with the presence of TDR. Results We identified 38 transmission clusters with 104 MSM, which included 26.6% of the total 305 MSM from our database used for cluster analysis. The overall prevalence of TDR was 8.2%. Only subtype C was significantly associated with TDR. 10.5% of the clusters had at least 1 drug resistance mutation (K103N, L90M or N88S). There was no significant difference in the prevalence of TDR between MSM inside and outside clusters. 50% of the clusters were composed of portuguese native MSM only, whereas 16% had exclusively migrant MSMs. No significant difference was found in the proportion of portuguese and migrant MSM inside and outside clusters. Factors associated with HIV-1 transmission clusters were age at diagnosis, district of residence, unprotected anal or vaginal sex with a woman, HIV testing frequency, presenter status and subtype. 87% of men engaged in sexual activity only with other men, while 13% with both men and women. Conclusions Specific subgroups of MSM are contributing to HIV dissemination in Portugal. Direct and precise prevention measures based on molecular epidemiology should be developed. Key messages • Specific subgroups of MSM are contributing to HIV dissemination in Portugal. • Direct and precise prevention measures based on molecular epidemiology should be developed.

AS COMPLICAÇÕES FUTURAS DO USO INDISCRIMINADO DO LEVONORGESTREL

Introduction: The indiscriminate use of levonorgestrel, an emergency contraceptive, can entail significant risks. Although it is effective in preventing pregnancy after unprotected sexual intercourse. Objective: To highlight the risks of frequent use and the side effects of emergency contraception. Methodology: This is a descriptive research, the method used aims to systematically summarize the results achieved in studies on a specific subject or issue. Through a bibliographic survey, based on the consultation and analysis of digital sources: Google Academy, Revista Ibero-Americana de Humanidades, Ciências e Educação, Brazilian Journal of Development and Scientific Electronic Library Online (SCIELO). Justification: The emergency contraceptive “levonorgestrel” can result in unplanned pregnancy, as well as does not protect against sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), where guidance from a health professional is crucial to select the most appropriate contraceptive method and ensure effective and safe family planning.

The Study Of Dermatoglyphics Pattern In Females With Primary Infertility

Background: Dermatoglyphics, the study of fingerprint ridge patterns, has been recognized for its potential in reflecting genetic and developmental variations. Primary infertility, defined as the inability to conceive after a year of regular, unprotected intercourse, is influenced by genetic, hormonal, and environmental factors. This study aims to investigate dermatoglyphic patterns in females with primary infertility to explore possible correlations between these patterns and infertility, providing insights for early diagnosis and management. Objective: The primary objective of this protocol is to systematically analyze dermatoglyphic patterns in females with primary infertility and compare them with those of fertile females. The study seeks to identify specific fingerprint characteristics that may serve as non-invasive markers for primary infertility. Methodology: This cross-sectional study will include two groups: females diagnosed with primary infertility and age-matched fertile controls. Dermatoglyphic data will be collected using the ink method, and the following parameters will be analyzed: total ridge count (TRC), patterns of arches, loops, and whorls, and other key qualitative features. Statistical analysis will be performed to evaluate significant differences between the two groups. Expected outcome: The study is expected to reveal distinct dermatoglyphic patterns in females with primary infertility compared to fertile females. Identifying such patterns may provide valuable markers for assessing genetic predispositions and could potentially assist in early diagnosis and personalized treatment strategies for infertility. Conclusion: This protocol outlines a method for studying the potential role of dermatoglyphic patterns in primary infertility, proposing a non-invasive, cost-effective diagnostic approach. Further research may help in establishing dermatoglyphics as a supplementary tool in infertility assessment and managemen.

HIV epidemic among key populations in Nigeria: results of the integrated biological and behavioural surveillance survey (IBBSS), 2020–2021

IntroductionNigeria has the fastest-growing HIV epidemic in West and Central Africa and key populations (KPs) bear a higher burden of HIV. This integrated biological and behavioural surveillance survey was conducted...

Structure Of The Single Health System For Diagnosis Of Htlv-1/2 In The Northern Region Of Tocantins

Background: The Human T-cell Lymphotropic Virus (HTLV), the first human retrovirus discovered, is associated with oncogenesis and is subdivided into several groups, with types 1 and 2 being the most prevalent and clinically relevant. Its main forms of transmission include unprotected sexual intercourse, blood transfusions, tissue and organ transplants, as well as vertical transmission (mother to newborn). In Brazil, mandatory testing for HTLV was implemented in the 1990s for blood donations and transplants, and expanded in 2024 by Ordinance No. 3,148 of the Ministry of Health, which includes testing during prenatal care. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the structure of the Unified Health System (SUS) in the municipalities of the far north of Tocantins for the diagnosis of HTLV-1/2. Methodology: This is a qualitative study, in which semi-structured questionnaires were applied to Primary Care professionals and municipal health managers. Results: The results indicated significant deficiencies in knowledge of national protocols and the absence of a structured municipal flow for testing. Conclusion: It can be concluded that the health structure of the municipalities evaluated is insufficient for the effective diagnosis of HTLV-1/2

Macro-FSH is a rare cause of inappropriately high FSH concentrations.

Assessment of hormone concentrations can be subjected to laboratory pitfalls. Macro-hormones are hormone-autoantibody complexes which are cleared slowly from circulation and cause a false elevation in hormones' concentrations. Macro-prolactin and macro-thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) are most frequently encountered while macro-follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) has been rarely reported. We describe the case of a 30-year-old woman who had a gynaecological consultation due to failure in achieving pregnancy after 8 months of unprotected intercourse. She had regular menses, did not complain of climacteric symptoms and her medical history was unremarkable. Antral follicle count and anti-mullerian hormone concentrations were normal, and regular ovulation was documented. Unexpectedly, high early follicular phase FSH concentrations were confirmed on two occasions (57 and 51 IU/L), raising the suspicion of primary ovarian insufficiency. After excluding Turner's syndrome and autoimmune oophoritis, a laboratory artifact was hypothesized. Following polyethylene glycol precipitation, FSH levels dropped from 41.1 IU/L to 6.54 IU/L (recovery 16%) and the presence of macro-FSH was concluded. Laboratory interference can lead to misdiagnosis and unnecessary treatments. A laboratory artifact should be suspected when inconsistency exists between clinical presentation and laboratory results. Only five other cases of macro-FSH have been reported to date. Although macro-hormones generally have low biological activity and do not require treatment, the role of anti-FSH antibodies has been hypothesized in primary ovarian insufficiency and in vitro fertilization failure. Hormone quantification is a cornerstone in the diagnostic workup of endocrine disorders, but it can be subjected to laboratory interferences which can lead to unnecessary investigations and inappropriate treatments. A laboratory artifact should be suspected when a discrepancy is observed between clinical presentation and laboratory results, when extremely unusual analyte concentrations are observed and when inconsistent results are obtained by different analytical methods. Macro-hormones are hormone-autoantibody complexes which are cleared slowly from circulation and cause a false elevation in hormone concentrations. Macro-prolactin and macro-TSH are most frequently encountered, while macro-FSH has been rarely reported. Macro-hormones can be detected by polyethylene glycol precipitation, gel filtration chromatography, or by using protein G or protein A columns. Although macro-hormones generally have low biological activity and do not require treatment, the role of anti-FSH antibodies has been hypothesized in primary ovarian insufficiency and in vitro fertilization failure.

Measuring non-events: infertility estimation using cross-sectional, population-based data from four countries in sub-Saharan Africa.

Does the prevalence of 12-month infertility in Burkina Faso, Côte d'Ivoire, Kenya, and Uganda differ between women trying to conceive and the broader population of women exposed to unprotected sex, and how are prevalence estimates affected by model assumptions and adjustments? Estimates of 12-month infertility among tryers ranged from 8% in Burkina Faso to 30% in Côte d'Ivoire, increasing substantially among a larger population of women exposed to unprotected intercourse. While having a child is a fundamental human experience, the extent to which women and couples experience infertility is a neglected area of research, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa. Existing estimates of infertility in this region vary widely from 2% to 32%, however, potential impacts of variability in study populations and model assumptions have not been well-examined. We used cross-sectional nationally representative survey data from Burkina Faso, Côte d'Ivoire, Kenya, and Uganda. We employed a multi-stage cluster random sampling design with probability proportional to the size selection of clusters within each country to produce representative samples of women aged 15-49. Samples ranged from 3864 in Côte d'Ivoire to 9489 in Kenya. We created two analytic samples in each country-tryers and a broader sample of women exposed to unprotected sex-exploring differences in population characteristics and estimating the period prevalence of 12-month infertility using the current duration (CD) approach. We also examined the impact of several model assumptions within each of the two analytic samples, including adjustments for recent injectable contraceptive use, unrecognized pregnancy, infertility treatment, underreported contraceptive use, and sexual activity. Employing the CD approach among tryers produced an overall 12-month infertility prevalence of 7.9% (95% CI 6.6-12.7) in Burkina Faso, 29.6% (95% CI 15.3-100.0) in Côte d'Ivoire, 24.5% (95% CI 16.5-34.6) in Kenya, and 14.7% (95% CI 8.1-22.4) in Uganda. Results among women exposed to unprotected intercourse indicated much higher levels of infertility, ranging from 22.4% (95% CI 18.6-30.8) in Uganda to 63.7% (95% CI 48.8-87.9) in Côte d'Ivoire. Sensitivity analyses suggest infertility estimates are particularly sensitive to adjustments around pregnancy recognition timing and sexual activity, with little impact of adjustments for recent injectable contraceptive use, infertility treatment, and underreporting of traditional and coital dependent contraceptive use. There was substantial digit preference in responses at 12 months, particularly among the tryers, which could introduce bias. Data quality concerns in the reproductive calendar may impact the accuracy of the CD approach among the broader sample of women exposed to unprotected sex, particularly with regard to underreported contraceptive use, induced and spontaneous abortions, and unrecognized pregnancies. Lastly, we lacked information on postpartum amenorrhea or abstinence. Understanding the inconsistencies in definition and analytic approach and their implications for infertility estimation is important for reliably monitoring population-level infertility trends, identifying factors influencing infertility, improving prevention programs, and ensuring access to quality treatment and services. This study was supported by grants from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation (INV009639) and the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (K01HD107172). The funders were not involved in the study design, analyses, manuscript writing, or the decision to publish. The authors have no conflicts of interest to declare. N/A.

Aqueous Seed Extract of Nigella Sativa Ameliorated Metronidazole-Induced Testicular Damage Via Up-Regulations of the Antioxidant System

Background: Infertility is a condition characterized by the failure to achieve a pregnancy after 12 months or more of regular, unprotected sexual intercourse. Objectives: To determine the effect of aqueous seed extract of Nigella sativa on testicular antioxidant levels in metronidazole-induced infertility in male Wistar rats. Methods: A total of thirty-five (35) male Wistar rats (aged 7-10 weeks old) were randomly distributed into five different groups (n = 7 each); Group A (Control group), Group B (Metronidazole only), Group C (Metronidazole + aqueous seed extract of Nigella sativa), Group D (Metronidazole Recovery), and Group E (Metronidazole + aqueous seed extract of Nigella sativa + Recovery). Experimental animals received 500 mg/kg of metronidazole and 300 mg/kg of aqueous seed extract of Nigella sativa orally. Results: Metronidazole treatment caused a significant (p<0.05) reduction in the level of testicular glutathione (Control group - 3.50±0.50; MTZ only - 2.00±0.30; MTZ+NS - 2.50±0.40; MTZ+ NS+ Recovery - 2.80±0.40). Similar reductions occurred in the activities of testicular superoxide dismutase (Control - 1.58±0.10; MTZ only - 0.23±0.06; MTZ+NS - 0.68±0.10; MTZ+ NS+ Recovery - 0.68±0.10) and catalase (Control - 2.70±0.35; MTZ only - 0.70±0.25; MTZ+NS - 1.23±0.20; MTZ+ NS+ Recovery: 1.25±0.30) which was followed by histo-architectural alterations in the testes of rats. Thereafter, aqueous seed extract of Nigella sativa treatment improved all the initial alterations caused by metronidazole treatment. Two - weeks recovery period was accompanied by a significant (p = 0.017) increase in antioxidant enzyme activities of group E when compared with group B and group D. Conclusions: The aqueous seed extract of Nigella sativa exerts its ameliorative effect by improving antioxidant enzyme activities in the testes which then protect the testes against oxidative damage, enhancing sperm quality, preventing apoptosis, supporting testicular function, and aiding tissue repair.

Syphilis among HIV-positive men who have sex with men in Ghana: The 2023 biobehavioral survey.

Apart from HIV acquisition, men who have sex with men are at a higher risk of sexually transmitted infections, especially syphilis. Although the intersection between syphilis and HIV poses a formidable challenge among key populations who are known to be vulnerable to many health threats, there is little known about syphilis infection among MSM living with HIV in Ghana. This study seeks to investigate the burden of syphilis and address the existing knowledge gap by exploring behavioral, healthcare access, and structural factors influencing the syphilis burden within the HIV-positive MSM population. This study was conducted in 2023 as part of the bio-behavioral survey (BBS) among men who have sex with men (MSM) in Ghana. A cross-sectional survey that used a respondent-driven sampling (RDS) approach was conducted in the old ten regions of Ghana. Data was collected on 3,420 participants, however, 857 HIV-positive MSM were included in this study since it focused on syphilis among HIV-positive MSM in Ghana. The study estimated the prevalence of syphilis among MSM living with HIV and provided a 95% confidence interval across different categories of explanatory variables. Bivariate and multivariable logistic regression models were used to identify factors associated with overall syphilis prevalence. All other analyses were weighted due to the complex design of the study. The overall prevalence of syphilis was 23.83% (95% CI: 20.44, 27.58). HIV-positive men who only had sex with men had a 29.77% (95% CI: 23.90, 36.40) prevalence of syphilis compared to a prevalence of 9.50% (95% CI: 2.56, 29.53) recorded by HIV-positive MSM who were attracted to mostly females. Participants who ever had receptive anal sex recorded a higher prevalence 26.79% (95% CI: 22.78, 31.23) than those who never had receptive anal sex 12.86% (95% CI: 8.02, 19.99). The odds of syphilis among HIV-positive MSM who never used condoms with regular sex partners in the last 6 months were 41.08 (aOR: 41.08 at 95% CI 1.24-136.42; p = 0.038). There is a high prevalence of syphilis among HIV-positive men who have sex with men in Ghana, especially among those who engage in unprotected anal sex and have multiple sexual partners. Our findings underscore the dire need for targeted interventions to address the dual brunt of HIV and syphilis among the MSM population in Ghana.

AYURVEDIC MANAGEMENT IN MALE INFERTILITY W.S.R TO OLIGO ASTHENOSPERMIA: A CASE REPORT

Infertility is a disease of the male or female reproductive system defined by the failure to achieve a pregnancy after 12 months or more of regular unprotected sexual intercourse[WHO]3 . Infertility may occur due to male, female or unexplained factors[WHO].In the male reproductive system, infertility may be caused by abnormal sperm function and quality [WHO]. Oligoasthenospermia is a condition with a decrease in the concentration of the spermatozoa and the percentage of motile spermatozoa in a sperm sample. A 36-year-old male patient with no issues for six years of marital life diagnosed with oligoasthenospermia visited our OPD in July 2022. Initially advised with Nitya Virechana, followed by Chandraprabha Vati and Burundi kashaya given after that, Tablet chandraprabha vati, Tab Confido, Tab Tentex forte and Tab Rejuspermin have been provided for six months. Followup showed improvement in seminal parameters regarding sperm concentration and motility, resulting in pregnancy. The present case signifies the importance of Ayurvedic treatment in bringing successful outcomes in the field of male infertility.

Sexual behavior is linked to changes in gut microbiome and systemic inflammation that lead to HIV-1 infection in men who have sex with men

Pathogenic changes in gut microbial composition precede the onset of HIV-1 infection in men who have sex with men (MSM). This process is associated with increased levels of systemic inflammatory biomarkers and risk for AIDS development. Using mediation analysis framework, in this report we link the effects of unprotected receptive intercourse among MSM prior to primary HIV-1 infection to higher levels of proinflammatory cytokines sCD14 and sCD163 in plasma and a significant decrease in the abundance of A. muciniphila, B. caccae, B. fragilis, B. uniformis, Bacteroides spp., Butyricimonas spp., and Odoribacter spp., and a potential increase in the abundance of Dehalobacterium spp. and Methanobrevibacter spp. in stools of MSM with the highest number of sexual partners. These differences in microbiota, together with a reduction in the pairwise correlations among commensal and short-chain fatty acid-producing bacteria with a number of sexual partners, support an increase in gut dysbiosis with the number of sexual partners. These results demonstrate the interconnectedness of sexual behavior, immune response, and microbiota composition, notably among MSM participating in high-risk sexual behaviors.

Contraceptive risk events among family planning specialists: a cross sectional study

BackgroundProponents of abortion restriction cite advancements in contraceptive technology as a reason against the need for abortion care today, most recently through oral arguments in the Supreme Court of the United States case, Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health. However, consistent and correct use of contraception requires reproductive health literacy. Our objectives were to quantify contraceptive risk events and assess contraceptive history and preferences among a population well-equipped to evade contraceptive risks, family planning specialists following initiation of their medical training. “Risk events” are defined as reported episodes of contraceptive failure, emergency contraception use and/or unprotected or underprotected intercourse.MethodsThis was a cross-sectional study among current members of a professional organization of family planning specialists. Inclusion criteria included: status as a current or retired clinician, consensual penile-vaginal intercourse and personal or partner capacity to become pregnant since the start of medical training. Descriptive statistics were performed. This study was IRB exempt.ResultsAmong 229 respondents, 157 (69%) reported experiencing a contraceptive risk event since training. Twenty-nine (13%) respondents reported an occurrence within the last year. By category, 47% (108/229; 3 reported unknown) reported under- or unprotected intercourse, 35% (81/229) reported emergency contraception use, and 52% of participants (117/227; 2 unknown) reported known or suspected contraceptive failure. The mean number of contraceptive methods used was 3.7 (SD 1.7) out of the 13 methods listed. Almost all (97%) participants reported at least one method was not an acceptable option, with a mean of 5.6 (SD 2.7) of the 13 listed methods.ConclusionsThe majority of family planning specialists have experienced contraceptive risk events during times of active pregnancy prevention since their medical training. Contraceptive method change is common and most respondents were limited in the number of methods that were personally acceptable to them. Dialogue idealizing the role of contraception in minimizing or eliminating abortion need is simplistic and inaccurately represents the lived realities of pregnancy-capable individuals and their partners, including among those with exceptional contraceptive literacy and access.

Impact of lifestyle on male fertility - review

Introduction and aim of study: The World Health Organization defines infertility as the disease of reproductive system defined by the failure to achieve a pregnancy after 12 months or more of regular unprotected sexual intercourse. It is estimated that 30% of infertility is due to the male factor, and 25% to the coexistence of the male and female factors. The purpose of this review study was to provide an overview of lifestyle risk factors for male infertility and their impact on the organism. Materials and methods: The authors conducted an extensive review of articles available in PubMed, Google Scholar, UpToDate, Science Direct, and Cochrane databases. The keywords infertility, lifestyle, testosterone, men were the basis of the review. Results: Leading an unhealthy lifestyle can significantly impact male fertility. The function of the reproductive system can be affected by inadequate body weight, as well as leading a sedentary lifestyle, using stimulants or anabolic steroids. They not only affect the endocrine system by disrupting steroidogenesis and spermatogenesis but may also directly damage sperm. This leads to impaired semen quality and increases the risk of recurrent pregnancy loss and poor pregnancy outcomes. Conclusion: Lifestyle significantly affects male fertility. A balanced diet, adequate physical activity and avoidance of stimulants can all have a beneficial effect.

Genetics of female and male infertility.

Infertility is defined as the inability to conceive within one year of unprotected intercourse, and the causes are equally distributed between both sexes. Genetics play a crucial role in couple infertility and respective diagnostic testing should follow available guidelines. Appropriate tiered genetic analyses require comprehensive physical examination of both partners in an infertile couple. A wide range of chromosomal and monogenic variants can be the underlying genetic cause of infertility in both women and men. Accurate clinical phenotyping, together with identification of the genetic origin, helps to recommend the proper treatment and to counsel couples on the success rates and potential risks for offspring.

Seroprevalence and molecular detection of cytomegalovirus and some viral STDs and their infection risk factors in male subjects in Onitsha, South-East, Nigeria

Viral infections including latent viruses have been known to affect semen quality of men negatively thereby affecting reproductive potentials. A cross-sectional study was done to assess the prevalence of CMV antigen/ antibody (IgG and IgM), HBV, HCV, HIV, confirm CMV molecularly and determine their risk factors for infection. Blood and semen samples were collected from 96 apparently healthy men aged between 24 – 65years in Onitsha, South-East, Nigeria. Ethical approval and informed consents were obtained. Data was collected using structured questionnaires and standard WHO tool for STDs. Method: HBV and HCV antibodies were screened immunochromatographically; HIV tested by parallel method, confirmed using Western-blot; CMV IgG and IgM were screened using ELISA, confirmed molecularly with quantitative PCR. Data was assessed using SPSS version 23 set at 0.05 at 95% confidence interval. Result: This revealed that CMV IgG had the highest prevalence of 68(70.8%) (p=0.04), HIV had 2(2.1%) (p=0.904) and HCV had 1(1.0%) (p=0.167). None of the subjects tested positive to CMV IgM and HBV. One out of 17 samples tested positive for CMV qPCR 1(5.9%). HIV was significantly associated with multiple partners (p=0.002) and unprotected anal sex (p=0.019). Conclusion: Early screening and treatment should be done for a more quality health and reproductive life.