Women Of Reproductive Age Research Articles

NIPP: Non-Invasive PCOS Prediction using XG-boost Machine Learning Model

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine disorder that affects women of reproductive age, leading to hormonal imbalances and ovarian dysfunction. Early detection and intervention are vital for effective management and prevention of complications. This study compares PCOS prediction using the XGBoost machine learning model against four traditional models: Logistic Regression (LR), Support Vector Machine (SVM), Decision Trees (DT), and Random Forests (RF). LR and SVM achieve accuracies of 95% and 96%, respectively, demonstrating strong predictive capabilities. In contrast, DT had a lower accuracy (82%), indicating limitations in PCOS data complexity. RF showed competitive performance with 96% accuracy, underscoring its effectiveness in ensemble learning. XGBoost achieves 98% accuracy with its parameter configuration. The scale pos weight parameter adjusts the positive class weight in im- balanced datasets, addressing underrepresentation by assigning more weight to the minority class, and thereby improving the training focus. The gradient boosting framework incrementally builds models to address complex feature interactions and dependencies, enhancing the accuracy and stability in predicting intricate PCOS dataset. This analysis highlights the importance of advanced machine learning models such as XGBoost for accurate and reliable PCOS predictions. This re- search advances PCOS prediction, demonstrates the potential of machine learning in healthcare, and clarifies the strengths and limitations of different algorithms with complex medical datasets.

The prevalence, types, and risk factors of urinary incontinence among Bangladeshi women aged 15-49: A study based on a nationally representative survey.

To estimate the prevalence of urinary incontinence (UI), its subtypes, and the associated risk factors in women of reproductive age in Bangladesh. Data from the 2016 Bangladesh Maternal Mortality and Health Care Survey was analyzed in a nationally representative sample of 298 284 households that used a multistage sample selection procedure. Data on 183 560 ever-married women aged 15-49 years who had ever given birth were analyzed. Descriptive statistics was used to report the overall prevalence of any UI and its three subtypes: stress, urge, and mixed UI. The wealth index of each household was constructed using principal component analysis. Univariable and multivariable binary logistic regression analyses were conducted to identify the factors associated with each type of UI. The prevalence of any UI was 15.9% (95% confidence interval [CI]:15.7-16.1). Stress incontinence was the most prevalent UI (8.3%, 95% CI: 8.2-8.4), followed by mixed type (5.5%, 95% CI: 5.4-5.6), and urge incontinence (2.1%, 95% CI: 2.1-2.2). In multivariate logistic regression analysis, older age, no or less education, younger age at first birth, higher parity, lower wealth status, self-reported pelvic organ prolapse (POP), and being Muslim had a significant positive association with the presence of UI. About one in six women reported to have suffered from any type of UI in this study. Several common risk factors were found, which call for targeted policy and programmatic interventions.

Prevalence and Determinants of Suspected Reproductive Tract Infection/Sexually Transmitted Infection among Women of a Reproductive Age Group (15–49 Years) in Rural Puducherry

Abstract Background: Reproductive tract infection (RTI) and sexually transmitted infection (STI) comprise a hidden epidemic causing significant health and economic consequences. There is a paucity of literature on RTI/STI prevalence and health seeking behavior among South Indian reproductive women. Hence, we carried out this study in rural Puducherry to ascertain the prevalence, contributing factors, and treatment-seeking behavior of suspected RTI/STI among women of a reproductive age. Materials and Methods: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted in a rural field practice area of JIPMER, Puducherry, between September 2018 and January 2020. Symptoms suggestive of RTI/STI were assessed according to the syndromic approach guidelines devised by World Health Organization for RTI/STI. Point estimates were reported as proportions with 95% confidence interval (CI). Log binomial regression was performed to identify the factors associated with suspected RTI/STI. Results: In total, 370 reproductive age group women participated in the study. The prevalence of suspected RTI/STI was 29.2% (95% CI: 24.6%–34.1%). Vaginal discharge (96.3%) was the most common RTI/STI symptom. Nearly 40% had history of similar symptoms in the past. Nearly one third (30.9%) did not seek care in any health facility. In multivariable analysis, women aged 15–19 years had higher risk of having suspected RTI/STI (aPR = 2.21; 95% CI: 1.02–4.25) when compared to women aged 40–49 years. Women using copper-T had 1.69 times higher risk of having suspected RTI/STI (aPR = 1.69; 95% CI: 1.13–2.52) when compared to women using other forms of contraceptives. Conclusion: Almost one in three reproductive age women had suspected RTI/STI in rural Puducherry. Almost one-third of them did not seek care from any health facility.

Prevalence and determinants of HIV testing-seeking behaviors among women of reproductive age in Tanzania: analysis of the 2022 Demographic and health survey

AimHIV remains one of the major epidemics and public health concerns within low and middle-income countries such as Tanzania. This study aimed to assess the prevalence and the factors associated with HIV testing-seeking behaviors among women of childbearing age in Tanzania.MethodsThis study used the 2022 Tanzania Demographic and Health Survey dataset. The study utilized individual recodes (IR) files where data was collected using the Women’s Questionnaire to analyze factors influencing HIV testing behavior among women, Descriptive analysis, and bivariate and multivariate logistic regressions were performed and all the data were processed and analyzed using STATA version 17 at 95% CI and significance level P < 0.05.ResultsThis study included 2531 women with 90.0% having ever tested for HIV while 7.0% had never tested for HIV. Not employed [AOR:0.35, CI (0.20–0.61)] has lower odds of HIV testing than All-year employed status. Rural residents have reduced odds of HIV testing [AOR:0.43, CI (0.21–0.88)] compared to women living in urban areas. Those able to ask their partner to use a condom are more likely to have been tested with increased odds [AOR: 3.52, CI (2.31–5.37)]. Participants with a history of genital discharge [AOR:4.30, CI (1.28–14.46)] and those who don’t know their genital discharge history have [AOR: 0.20, CI (0.07–0.55)] are significant for HIV testing. Women who have heard about PrEP but are not uncertain about its approval [AOR: 36.07, CI (3.33–390.25)], respondents who have tested before with HIV testing kits [AOR:35.99, CI (4.00–324.13)] and women who are aware of HIV testing kids but never tested with them before [AOR: 2.80, CI (1.19–6.58)] are predictors of HIV testing seeking behaviors.ConclusionThe government and other concerned agencies should introduce mobile or community-based testing units and subsidize testing costs to reach economically disadvantaged or rural populations. Promote Open Communication on Sexual Health: Public health campaigns should encourage open discussions about sexual health within relationships, emphasizing condom negotiation and mutual health checks as preventive measures. Raise Awareness and Accessibility of HIV Prevention Tools: Expand education on PrEP and HIV self-test kits to improve familiarity and acceptance, which may empower individuals to proactively seek testing. Integrate Sexual Health Screening into Routine Healthcare: Health facilities should incorporate HIV testing when individuals present with symptoms like genital discharge to improve early detection and intervention.

Prevalence and correlates of symptoms of depression, anxiety, and psychological distress among women of reproductive age with delayed conception in urban and peri-urban low to mid-socioeconomic neighborhoods of Delhi, India: A cross-sectional study.

One in six people of reproductive age experience infertility in their lifetime. Infertility can have significant impacts on mental health. Psychological distress is a broad term encompassing emotional suffering and mental health discomfort that can include symptoms of anxiety and depression but is not limited to these conditions. We investigated the prevalence of symptoms of depression, anxiety, and psychological distress and their associated risk factors among women of reproductive age with delayed conception. A total of 1530 women were recruited from community settings in Northern India. Quantitative data were collected using a 4-item Patient Health Questionnaire-4 (PHQ-4) which is an ultra-brief self-report questionnaire consisting of a 2-item depression scale (PHQ-2) and a 2-item anxiety scale (generalized anxiety depression-2). Data were collected between July 2020 and August 2021. Descriptive analysis was conducted to summarise the characteristics and prevalence of symptoms of depression, anxiety, and psychological distress. Logistic regression was used to identify risk factors for psychological distress. We obtained responses from all 1,530 women using these scales. Over half (54.31%) of participants had psychological distress, of whom 38.10% were experiencing mild distress, 10.59% moderate distress, and 5.62% severe distress. Additionally,16.07% of participants reported symptoms of anxiety and 20% reported symptoms of depression. Factors associated with psychological distress were: (i) a higher total number of children that women intended to have in their lifetime, (ii) longer duration of trying to get pregnant (> 18 months), (iii) continuous effort trying to achieve pregnancy, (iv) women's perception that conception is taking long, (v) social isolation, (vi) being emotionally or verbally abused by husband and family members, and (vii) having other co-morbidities such as hypertension, irregular menstrual cycles, irregular bleeding between regular cycles, abnormal vaginal discharge or pain during sex. This study demonstrates the high mental health burden faced by women with delayed conception in low- to mid-socioeconomic neighbourhoods of North India including high levels of anxiety and depression. To better support individuals and couples achieve their reproductive goals, we advocate for the integration of psychosocial interventions to improve mental health outcomes and promote the well-being of those facing delays in achieving pregnancy. Specifically, addressing social isolation, fostering supportive networks, combating violence towards women, and incorporating fertility counselling and group-based psychosocial interventions within community and healthcare settings are needed to alleviate mental health symptoms among women who have difficulties in conceiving. However, the successful implementation of these recommendations may be challenged by the availability of the state's healthcare resources, necessitating tailored strategies with contextual adaptations.

“Sleepless nights are a daily reality for us” how mothers experiencing homelessness in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia describe street life: a photovoice study

IntroductionHomelessness among women of reproductive age is a global problem. Several unique gender-based issues affect homeless women’s well-being, including reproductive health issues, their homelessness experiences, and a high rate of sexual violence. In this study, we aimed to describe women’s experiences of street homelessness in their own terms and their suggestions to address their unmet needs.MethodsThis photovoice study draws on photos, focus group discussions, and semi-structured interviews. We conducted the study in collaboration with women in their reproductive years experiencing homelessness (n = 9). A total of 80 photos were taken, and 40 were chosen to be discussed in interviews and further focus group discussions. The participating women selected photographs, explained their significance, and codified them based on how they related to their lives. Data from these discussions were then analysed using a reflexive thematic approach.ResultsFour themes were developed from the data: (a) deprivation of basic needs; (b) experiencing dependency, shame, and seclusion while dealing with the burden of street life; (c) the vulnerability and neglect of children; and (d) being resilient to harsh conditions. In this study, women’s street life was characterised by numerous unfavourable aspects, including unmet needs, human rights violations, social exclusions, substance use, and child protection issues. Participants provided suggestions for change and confirmed their belief that adequate housing represents one of the most urgent unmet basic needs of people experiencing homelessness. They also emphasised the critical need for employment opportunities, non-discriminatory provision of social support, treatment programs for substance misuse, and legal and social protection.ConclusionThis study contributes to understanding how women experiencing homelessness describe and articulate their living circumstances and what they perceive needs to be addressed. Based on participants’ proposal for change, comprehensive services are needed to address women’s multifaceted issues. However, the mitigation strategies and long-term effects of women’s homelessness require further research.

Determinants of family planning services uptake among women within the reproductive age in the Yendi municipality in Northern Ghana

The study investigated the prevalence and determinants of family planning services uptake among women of reproductive age (15 to 49 years) in the Yendi municipality in the northern region of Ghana. A health facility-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 396 reproductive-aged women, sampled from 6 randomly selected health facilities in the Yendi municipality. The child welfare clinic (CWC) served as the point for the sampling of study respondents. Data was collected with questionnaires adapted from previously validated tools. Data was analysed using SPSS v27 in descriptive and inferential statistics. More than half of the respondents (54.3%) said they had ever used a family planning method and almost half of them said they were still using a family planning method. The desire to control pregnancy was a key factor for wanting family planning (79.3%). Most respondents (80.6%) had high knowledge of family planning services and injectables (37.1%) and condoms (24.7%) were the preferred family planning methods. The significant sociodemographic determinants of family planning uptake were religion (Christians (aOR: 7.51; 95%CI: 1.48–38.00:; p = 0.015), traditionalist (aOR: 12.1; 95%CI: 1.90–78.36; p = 0.009)), education (secondary education (aOR: 84.99; 95%CI: 20.02–360.84:; p = 0.000), tertiary education (aOR: 158.74; 95%CI: 33.71–747.52; p = 0.000), no formal education (aOR: 11.83; 95%CI: 2.10–46.76:; p = 0.000)), occupation (farmers (aOR: 12.30; 95%CI: 3.21–47.03; p = 0.000)), and marital status (married (aOR: 0.13; 95%CI: 0.03–0.57; p = 0.007)). Factors that made women less likely to use family planning were unfriendly service providers (aOR: 2.33; 95%CI: 1.28–4.21; p = 0.005), fear of side effects (aOR: 2.19; 95%CI: 1.19–4.05; p = 0.012), and lack of knowledge about available FP services (aOR: 0.45; 95%CI: 0.26–0.77; p = 0.004). Though the knowledge of family planning was high, current uptake of family planning services was modest and there are still sociodemographic and health-related barriers to family planning utilization. Highlighting the need for training programs and policy interventions to improve uptake, reduce financial barriers, and foster a supportive environment.

Environmental Exposures and Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: A Review.

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most common heterogeneous endocrine disorder in women of reproductive age, affecting around 5 to 10% of women and up to 21% depending on the applied diagnostic criteria and study population. People with PCOS may experience oligomenorrhea, androgen excess, and polycystic ovary morphology. The etiology of the disease is not completely understood, with genetics, epigenetics, endocrine, metabolic, lifestyle, and environmental factors contributing to its development and severity. Environmental exposures are an important, burgeoning field in menstrual research, as they potentially link to menstrual cycle disruption and the risk of reproductive disorders such as PCOS. This review examines the recent research investigating environmental exposures-air pollution, micro- and nanoplastics, heavy metals, and endocrine-disrupting chemicals-and PCOS in human and animal models, concluding with potential mechanisms, limitations, and considerations for future work. Overall, research on environmental exposures and PCOS is limited and yields heterogeneous results across studies. Specifically, exposures such as air pollutants, micro- and nanoplastics, persistent organic pollutants, and parabens have noticeably limited research. Future research can help fill the gap in understanding how environmental exposures, particularly across gestational, childhood, and reproductive adult life stages, may impact PCOS.

Determinants of poor access to health care among women of reproductive age in Sierra Leone: a cross-sectional study

Determinants of poor access to health care among women of reproductive age in Sierra Leone: a cross-sectional study

The efficacy and safety of current treatment of vulvovaginal candidiasis: An umbrella review of systematic reviews and meta-analyses.

Vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) is one of the most common infections of the genital tract in women of reproductive age. In this umbrella review, we aim to summarize all the existing literature about different treatment strategies for vulvovaginal candidiasis. This umbrella review adhered to the PRISMA guidelines, systematically searching databases including Scopus, PubMed, and Web of Science for meta-analyses for assessing different treatment methods for vaginal candidiasis until September 2024. Data extraction focused on outcome metrics, and methodological quality assessed via the AMSTAR-2 checklist. In our study, we have included a total of five articles. Within pharmacological interventions, treating individuals with fluconazole, ketoconazole, clotrimazole, and oteseconazole has demonstrated a significant reduction in the risk of mycological recurrence at the 12-month mark. Moreover, women who were treated with fluconazole experienced fewer episodes of VVC recurrence immediately after treatment, as well as at the 3- and 6-month follow-up periods when compared to those who received a placebo. In terms of non-pharmacological interventions, the combination therapy involving Redcore lotion alongside miconazole exhibited more substantial results in decreasing episodes of VVC compared to miconazole used alone. Furthermore, our results revealed a negative correlation between probiotic consumption and the rate of recurrence. In the end, we examined the primary treatment methods for vulvovaginal candidiasis and highlighted that, apart from azoles and antibiotics, emerging treatments such as probiotics and Redcore, along with certain established antibiotics, can also be considered viable options. More studies are needed to find more effective treatments as well as treatments for specific conditions such as pregnancy or immunodeficiency.

Trends and determinants of obesity among ever-married women aged 15–49 in India: insights from National Family Health Surveys (NFHS 1998–2021)

BackgroundObesity has emerged as a significant public health concern in India, particularly among ever-married women of reproductive age (EMWRA). This study analyses trends in obesity among EMWRA across India and its states from 1998 to 2021 and explores the factors contributing to obesity in this group.MethodsData from four National Family Health Survey (NFHS) rounds, spanning 1998-99 to 2019-21, were pooled to create a dataset of 1,117,433 participants. We analysed obesity trends in India and its states and assessed β- and σ-convergence in obesity rates during this period. Additionally, we examined changes in socioeconomic differentials in obesity over this period. Binary logistic regression was used to explore the association of obesity with socioeconomic, demographic, and temporal factors.ResultsOver the study period, obesity among ever-married women of reproductive age (EMWRA) in India has shown a startling increase, tripling from 5.1% (95% CI: 4.7–5.5) in 1998-99 to 15.7% (15.4–15.9) in 2019-21. While obesity rates have surged across all states, the degree of increase varies significantly (ranging from 22.9% points in Tamil Nadu to 2.6 in Meghalaya). Presently, two prominent regions in the country exhibit high obesity rates: the southern region, including Tamil Nadu (29%), Kerala (25%), Goa (25%), and Andhra Pradesh (23%), and the northwestern region, encompassing Delhi (33%), Punjab (31%), and Haryana (24%). Moreover, the disparity in obesity rates across states has widened over time, with states initially showing higher rates experiencing a faster growth rate compared to those with lower initial rates, as highlighted by the β- and σ-convergence analyses. There was substantial variation in obesity rates across education, wealth, place of residence, and social group categories. The risk of obesity is higher among older, educated, wealthy, non-Hindu EMWRAs and TV watchers, but lower among those living in rural areas, the southern region, smaller households, and belonging to SC, ST, and OBC social groups.ConclusionThe surge in obesity among Indian ever married women of reproductive age calls for immediate public health measures. Customized strategies, acknowledging regional differences, are vital to tackle diverse obesity rates across states. Prioritizing vulnerable groups, including the poor, uneducated, and urban populations, is critical for ensuring fair health outcomes.

Using the socioecological model to explore factors associated with obesity among reproductive age women

IntroductionWomen of reproductive age (18–44 years) are at an increased risk of developing obesity due to pregnancy, life-transitions, and marginalization. Obesity in women negatively affects women’s health and pregnancy outcomes and can increase risk their children will develop obesity. Less is known about obesity risk at the interpersonal and environmental levels for women of reproductive age. This study uses the socioecological model to explore women’s obesity risk across ecological levels.Materials and methodsA secondary cross-sectional analysis was conducted using baseline data (March 2019–June 2022) from the cluster-randomized Healthy Eating and Active Living Taught at Home (HEALTH) Dissemination and Implementation study. Descriptive statistics and multivariate logistic regression models were used to determine associations between individual, interpersonal, and environmental level factors with weight status (overweight vs. obesity).ResultsAmong 221 participants (43% Hispanic/Latino, 51% High school or less), 37% were overweight and 63% had obesity. Interpersonal and environmental factors were not statistically significantly associated with obesity relative to overweight in bivariate analyses. In multivariate models, individual level factors of high/moderate physical activity (OR = 0.47, 95% CI: 0.26,0.84, p = 0.01) and food insecurity (OR = 2.51, 95% CI: 1.33,4.71, p = 0.00) were statistically significantly related to risk of having obesity compared to being overweight.DiscussionPhysical activity and food insecurity were associated with obesity in this study. Associations with interpersonal and environmental level factors were not statistically significant, which may be due to limited sample size or measures available to assess these levels. Future studies should investigate structural determinants (e.g., economic, neighborhood and physical environment), which may drive physical activity and food insecurity.

Ensemble learning to predict short birth interval among reproductive-age women in Ethiopia: evidence from EDHS 2016–2019

BackgroundA birth interval of less than 33 months was considered short, and in low- income countries like Ethiopia, a short birth interval is the primary cause of approximately 822 maternal deaths every day. Due to that this study aimed to predict short birth interval and associated factors among women (15–49) in Ethiopia using ensemble learning algorithms.MethodsA secondary data analysis of Ethiopian demographic health servey from 2016 to 2019 was performed. a total of weighted sample of 12,573 women in the reproductive age group was included in this study. Data have been extracted and processed with Stata version 17. The dataset was then imported into a Jupyter notebook for further detailed analysis and visualization. An ensemble Machin learning algorithm using different classification models were implemented. All analysis and calculation were performed using Python 3 programming language in Jupyter Notebook using imblearn, sklearn, and xgboost pakages.ResultsRandom forest demonstrated the best performance with an accuracy 97.84%, recall of 99.70%, F1-score of 97.81%, 98.95% precision on test data and AUC (98%). Region, residency, age of women, sex of child, respondent education, distance health facility, husband education and religion were top predicting factors of short birth interval among women in Ethiopia.ConclusionRandom forest was best predictive models with improved performance. "The most significant features that contribute to the accuracy of the top-performing models, notably the Random Forest should be highlighted because they outperformed the other model in the analysis.In general, ensemble learning algorithms can accurately predict short birth interval status, making them potentially useful as decision-support tools for the pertinent stakeholders.

Challenges in reducing grand multiparity rates in Ethiopia: an analysis of 2019 EDHS data using a multilevel model approach

BackgroundOne of the Sustainable Development Goals (2030) focuses on reducing the total fertility rate. Reducing grand multiparity in Ethiopia remains a challenge. Understanding the underlying factors that contribute to this issue is crucial for explaining why grand multiparity remains prevalent despite various health interventions and socio-economic progress.MethodsA community-based cross-sectional study was conducted using data from the Ethiopian Demographic and Health Survey 2019. Multilevel multivariable logistic regression analysis was employed to model the hierarchical data. The final findings were presented as adjusted odds ratios (AOR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI). A p-value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.ResultThe trend analysis of grand multiparity in Ethiopia over 19 years shows no significant change (linear trend = 1.23, p = 0.27). The prevalence slightly decreased from 72% in the 2000 EDHS to 66.3% (95% CI: 65.7 − 66.96%) in the 2019 mini EDHS. Additionally, the highest prevalence of grand multiparity was observed among illiterate women (79.7%), those from poor households (54.8%), non-family planning users (77.5%), and residents of the Oromia (15.8%) and SNNPR (15.4%) regional states. Significant individual-level factors associated with grand multiparity include wealth index, marital status, maternal education, non-use of family planning, use of short-acting family planning, age at first birth < 18 years, and short birth intervals. At the community level, rural residency was significantly associated with grand multiparity.ConclusionThis study emphasizes the need for targeted interventions to address the socio-economic and reproductive factors driving grand multiparity, especially in rural areas and among disadvantaged populations. To improve maternal and child health outcomes, we recommend that the government focus on lowering fertility rates through need-based family planning services and promoting the well-being of women of reproductive age.

Recurrent pregnancy loss: etiology, pathophysiology, diagnosis and treatment

The current article aims to provide an analytical review of the aetiology, pathophysiology, diagnosis, and treatment of recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) with a focus on Bulgaria. RPL has become an important reproductive health issue worldwide and affects 2%&amp;ndash;3% of reproductive-aged women. The findings showed that the etiological factors can be biological, hereditary or environmental, and in approximately 50% of RPL cases, these factors remain unknown. In relation to pathophysiological processes associated with the condition, the findings showed that different etiological factors affect different gestational processes, such as alteration of the structural and nanomechanical abnormalities of the platelets and disruption of the ANXA5 protective shield that prevents adverse pregnancy outcomes. Also, acquired uterine structural defects such as submucosal uterine leiomyomas, endometrial synechiae, and polyps disrupt the implantation and embryonic development processes, which can result in recurrent miscarriages. A common factor for diagnostic approaches to recurrent pregnancy loss is the examination of historical medical records of patients who have experienced the condition and the identification of possible etiological and risk factors. The management and treatment of recurrent pregnancy loss are often based on the results of the diagnostic tests used to determine the underlying etiological factors associated with the condition.

Intimate partner violence among women of reproductive age during the COVID-19 pandemic in Ethiopia: a systematic review and meta-analysis

ObjectivesIntimate partner violence (IPV) is the violence committed by both current and former spouses and partners, and the rate of this violence is known to increase during different pandemics. The...

Role of Virechana Karma in Poly Cystic Ovarian Syndrome - A Case Study

Background: Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome is a prevalent endocrine disorder among women of reproductive age, characterized by hormonal imbalances, irregular menstrual cycles, insulin resistance and presence of ovarian cyst. Conventional treatments for PCOS often focus on symptoms management but ayurvedic medicine offers a holistic approach that aims at addressing the root cause. Virechana Karma is an essential treatment modality in ayurveda for managing hormonal imbalances and detoxifying the body. Materials and Methods: In the present study a 25 years old female diagnosed with PCOS was treated with Shodhana Karma as Snehapan, Sarwanga Abhyanga, Swedana followed by Virechana Karma and Shamana Chikitsa given after discharge. Result: After the given treatment patient has got significant relief in her symptoms and showed significant difference in her subsequent USG report. Conclusion: The role of Virechana Karma in the treatment of PCOS, emphasizing its ability to regulate the Dosha, particularly Kapha and Pitta, which are considered to be imbalanced in PCOS. By eliminating ama from the body and promoting Agni, Virechana helps restore hormonal balance, improve insulin sensitivity and regulate the menstrual cycle. Hence, Virechana Karma represents a promising and integrative therapeutic option in the present study.

Determinations of Antenatal Care Utilization Among Reproductive Age Women in Lumbini Province, Nepal

This study examines the factors influencing Antenatal care (ANC) utilization among women aged 15–49 in Lumbini Province, Nepal, using data from the 2021 Nepal Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS). Logistic regression analysis identifies significant determinants of ANC attendance, including age, birth order, education, and wealth. This study shows that in a similar meter from the previous, women in the age group of 20-24 years are at a risk of almost 4.78 times greater for attending ANC visits than women below it. The odds continue to increase as with an all-time high validation for women aged 30-49 years (OR = 11.75, p = 0.017). Where birth order sometimes negatively affects ANC usage, women with three or more children will less likely seek ANC (OR = 0.344, p = 0.063). There is a positive association between the ANC use and education because those women with better education are 2.83 more likely to access ANC services, although it is not very significant. Indeed, differences in the economics that do exist show that poorer women attend ANC as showed to by an OR of 0.384, which denotes that they are 0.384 times less likely to attend ANC compared to the poorest (OR = 0.384, p = 0.045): with wealth, indirect influences of religion, caste/ethnicity, and location using socio-economic factors being biased toward ANC use. It shows that, it should to improve ANC for young mothers, women with higher birth orders, and income. Addressing these gaps therefore needs a multi-faceted approach in terms of strengthening education, financial support, and healthcare infrastructure. The findings provide the much needed evidence and policymakers to strategize around maternal health equity and SDG pathways that give detail in regard to addressing maternal and child health issues in Lumbini Province.

Long-acting family planning uptake and associated factors among women in the reproductive age group in East Africa: multilevel analysis

IntroductionThe campaign to encourage sexually active women to utilize family planning is one of the primary initiatives being undertaken globally to reduce unintended pregnancies and fertility rates. Evidence suggests that family planning measures can lower this maternal mortality ratio by nearly 25%. According to our literature search, there is no known study that has reported on the study area to assess utilization and factors associated with the use of long-acting contraceptive methods (LACMs) among women of reproductive age. Therefore, this study aimed to assess long-acting contraceptive method uptake and its associated factors among women of reproductive age in East Africa.MethodsA weighted total of 50,525 women of reproductive age were included in this study. A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted on the most recent Demographic and Health Surveys in 12 East African countries. The pooled prevalence of long-acting contraceptive uptake with a 95% confidence interval (CI) was reported and presented in a forest plot for East African countries using STATA version 14.1. Intraclass correlation coefficient, likelihood ratio (LR) test, median odds ratio, and deviance (−2 log-likelihood) values were used for model comparison and fitness. Adjusted odds ratios (AOR) with a 95% CI and p-value ≤0.05 in the multilevel logistic model were used to declare significant factors associated with long-acting contraceptive uptake.ResultsThe overall prevalence of long-acting contraceptive methods in East African countries was 19.41% (95% CI 19.07%–19.76%). In the multilevel logistic regression analysis, women in the age group of 35–49 years (AOR 1.09, 95% CI 1.06–1.17), women who were married (AOR 1.31, 95% CI 1.10–1.56), and women who were exposed to media (AOR 1.06, 95% CI 1.00–1.13) were significantly associated with LACM uptake. Moreover, living in urban areas (AOR 1.23, 95% CI 1.14–1.32) and living in the highest household wealth index (AOR 1.09, 95% CI 1.01–1.17) were also significantly associated with long-acting contraceptive uptake.ConclusionThe overall utilization of acting contraceptive methods was low. Therefore, future interventions should be planned to target women in younger age groups, with lower socioeconomic backgrounds, and those living in rural areas to improve LACM uptake.

Enhancing Knowledge and Attitudes Toward Modern Temporary Family Planning Methods: A Nurse-Led Intervention Study among Reproductive-Age Women

ABSTRACT Background: Limited knowledge and negative attitudes toward modern temporary family planning methods remain significant barriers to reproductive health. Nurse-led interventions play a crucial role in improving awareness and acceptance of these methods among reproductive-age women. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a nurse-led intervention in enhancing knowledge and attitudes toward modern temporary family planning methods among reproductive-age women in Choolai, Chennai. Methods: A quasi-experimental study design was employed, involving 120 participants divided into experimental and control groups. Pre- and post-intervention data were collected using structured questionnaires. The intervention included educational sessions led by nurses focusing on various temporary family planning methods. Statistical analyses, including paired Student’s t-tests, were conducted to assess improvements in knowledge and attitudes. Results: The intervention led to a substantial increase in adequate knowledge (from 16.67% to 75%) and positive attitudes (from 25% to 70%) in the experimental group, while minimal changes were observed in the control group. The mean pre-test knowledge score was 8.23 (SD = 2.56), which significantly increased to 15.15 (SD = 0.95) post-intervention (t = 31.30, P = 0.001). Similarly, the mean pre-test attitude score improved from 45.83 (SD = 5.83) to 79.48 (SD = 3.32) post-intervention (t = 35.46, P = 0.001). A statistically significant association was observed between demographic factors such as age, husbands’ age, education level (graduated women), and regular menstrual cycles with post-test knowledge and attitude levels. Conclusion: The findings highlight the effectiveness of nurse-led interventions in improving reproductive health education. Integrating such educational programs into community healthcare services can significantly enhance family planning awareness and acceptance, ultimately contributing to better reproductive health outcomes.