Lives Of Women Research Articles

The role of self-management in endometriosis pain: insights from a cross-sectional survey in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland.

Endometriosis has a significant negative impact on women's lives. Unfortunately, current medical treatments often fail to provide adequate pain relief and may cause intolerable side effects. Although many women experiencing primary dysmenorrhoea employ self-management strategies to help alleviate period-related symptoms, there is a paucity of knowledge about how women with endometriosis manage their symptoms through self-management. A cross-sectional online survey was distributed in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, between August and December 2022, targeting women aged 18years or older with a diagnosis of endometriosis. The survey gathered information on (pharmacological and non-pharmacological) self-management strategies employed by the respondents in the previous six months, including their frequency, reasons for non-use, self-rated effectiveness, and impact on reducing endometriosis-related medication. Furthermore, the survey collected data on demographics, medical history, current symptomatology, and medication usage. Descriptive statistical analyses were conducted. Of the 912 valid responses, 75.4% reported using self-management strategies, with the most prevalent being rest (91.6%), heat (91.1%), and exercise (63.3%). The most highly rated techniques in terms of effectiveness in pain reduction were cannabis, osteopathy, heat, and alcohol, with mean effectiveness ratings of 8.0, 7.3, 7.1, and 6.8, respectively, on the Numerical Rating Scale. Interventions, such as Tai Chi/Qi Gong, yoga/Pilates, herbal medicine, stretching, and meditation/breathing, were rated as being less effective. The lack of information and costs were identified as the primary reasons for not utilising self-management approaches. The findings of this study may provide evidence for the reimbursement of self-management techniques by health insurance companies for the treatment of endometriosis-associated pain.

Impact of labiaplasty on psychological well-being and quality of life in Chinese women: Findings from a single-center retrospective study.

Impact of labiaplasty on psychological well-being and quality of life in Chinese women: Findings from a single-center retrospective study.

Impact of Loop Electrosurgical Excision (LEEP/LLETZ) on the Quality of Sexual Life in Women of Reproductive Age—A Prospective Longitudinal Study

Impact of Loop Electrosurgical Excision (LEEP/LLETZ) on the Quality of Sexual Life in Women of Reproductive Age—A Prospective Longitudinal Study

Sexual dysfunction in women with genital warts: a cross-sectional study

PurposeThis study aimed to evaluate sexual dysfunction and quality of life in women with genital warts.MethodsA total of 100 women were included if they were aged 18–45 years, had genital warts (GWs) for at least three months, and were in a stable marital relationship for at least six months. All participants completed the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) and the Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) questionnaires.ResultsShowed that the lowest mean scores were observed in the domains of orgasm (1.91 ± 1.07), arousal (2.82 ± 1.12), satisfaction (3.01 ± 1.01), pain (3.11 ± 1.34), desire (3.37 ± 1.01), and lubrication (3.64 ± 1.32). Total FSFI score was 17.64 ± 6.15. The presence of GWs had a significant very large impact on patients QOL in 49% of participants (p < 0.001).ConclusionsResults demonstrated sexual and quality of life affection among females complaining of genital warts. Sexual health and dysfunction should be routinely assessed in women presenting with genital warts.

The Rehabilitation of Women Who Have Had a Mastectomy

Background: Breast cancer is one of the main causes of mortality among women, and mastectomy has a significant effect on the body image, sexuality and psychology of women. The aim of postmastectomy rehabilitation is to improve functionality, minimize complications and promote well-being and quality of life. Objectives: This study aimed to understand the role of nurses specializing in rehabilitation nursing in the rehabilitation of women who have had a mastectomy. Methods: This was a qualitative, exploratory and descriptive study. The participants included seven nurses specializing in rehabilitation nursing who provided structured narratives about their experiences and care strategies in the rehabilitation of women who have had a mastectomy. The interviews were analyzed by thematic categorization via content analysis. Results: Three main categories emerged: the meaning of care, professional intervention strategies and health gains. Care is seen as a developmental and person-centered experience, with a focus on preventing complications. The interventions prioritize personalized projects, emotional support and self-care training. Conclusions: The rehabilitation of women postmastectomy depends on a holistic and individualized approach centered on the person through emotional and functional support. Rehabilitation interventions improve the functionality, quality of life and autonomy of women and are essential for preventing complications and promoting the acceptance of new health conditions.

Fractal scaling of feminist politics and the emergence of woman life freedom movement in Iran

Abstract This article presents a socio-historical analysis of the ways women’s everyday resistance and struggles over several decades have contributed to the emergence of the Woman, Life, Freedom (WLF) movement in Iran. Drawing on archival and (digital) ethnographic data spanning from the mid-19th century to the 2022 WLF movement, I take a spatiotemporal approach to illustrate the evolution of feminist politics in social (non)movements in Iran. I argue that while state policies have historically constrained women’s access to and participation in sociopolitical spaces, these very constraints have gradually fueled the growth of grassroots feminist politics, which have incrementally scaled up to sustain and generate new forms of resistance and struggle. I specifically argue how the ongoing dialectical interaction between the state and women’s everyday resistance and historical struggles have led to the fractal expansion of feminist politics through decentralized feminist friendship networks that cultivate (in)visible forms of everyday resistance. This study has implications for understanding how women in general and feminist activists, in particular, navigate material circumstances and different forms of spaces for change across various spatiotemporal scales, particularly in authoritarian states, where feminist politics’ creativity and adaptability become essential forces for sustaining resistance and advancing social change.

Challenges and Opportunities for Women Farmers in Afghanistan

Women play a crucial role in the country's development, particularly in Afghanistan’s agricultural industry, where they face numerous challenges and opportunities in Afghanistan. However, this topic has not been extensively investigated in the literature, leaving a gap in understanding the unique experiences of women in this sector. This study examines the challenges and opportunities faced by women farmers in Afghanistan, drawing on survey data from 81 participants across 16 provinces. Results indicate significant barriers to women’s participation in the agriculture industry, including restricted access to land (31), financial constraints (87%), limited training opportunities (57%), and insufficient institutional support (83%). Cultural and social norms further impede these concerns by limiting women's roles and decision-making abilities. Despite these challenges, the study conceives anew of potential avenues for empowerment through community-based solutions, evidenced by 69% of respondents interested in joining women's agricultural activities. Other potential avenues could be microfinance programs, financial literacy courses, mobile or community-based learning solutions, and region-specific programs. Our findings highlight a pressing need for targeted and multi-sectoral efforts to overcome systemic barriers, promote gender equality, and release the potentials of women in agriculture. These initiatives could greatly enhance the lives of women and contribute towards Afghanistan’s larger economic growth. This study concludes that while women in Afghanistan’s agricultural sector face significant challenges, there are substantial opportunities to empower them through targeted interventions and community-based initiatives.

Land and Violence in the Lives of Tribal Women: The Case of Jharkhand

Jharkhand has the highest number of witchcraft-related crimes in India. Research suggests that a number of these are rooted in land disputes. In this article, we assess the various threads which connect or disconnect tribal women with land in Jharkhand and expose them to violence. We spoke with the women and listened to the people around them—men from their communities, tribal leaders, government officials, development leaders, advocates and others—to know their perspectives. We also analyse the constitutional and legal contexts of women’s access to and ownership of land. We examine the complex web of factors—including legal, administrative, social and cultural—that contribute to the unequal treatment of tribal women. We then suggest some strategic changes that require a long-term vision, and some immediate steps that might reduce the vulnerability and suffering of tribal women in Jharkhand.

Effects of strength training on quality of life in pregnant women: A systematic review.

Physical activity is known to improve physical and psychological outcomes in pregnant women. While aerobic exercise is typically emphasized in physical activity guidelines for pregnant women, emerging research suggests that strength training may offer unique benefits beyond those provided by aerobic exercise alone. This systematic review aimed to systematically explore the effects and characteristics of strength training interventions on the health-related quality of life of pregnant women, with the goal of informing more comprehensive and specific exercise guidelines. A systematic literature search was conducted across PubMed, Web of Science, and EBSCO Host databases without time restrictions, following PRISMA guidelines (PROSPERO ID: CRD42024511477). Nine randomized controlled trials met the inclusion criteria, involving a total of 1581 participants. The studies reviewed demonstrated that strength training during pregnancy can mitigate excessive weight gain, alleviate low back and sciatic pain, enhance mood, and improve various aspects of health-related quality of life. These aspects include physical activity levels, muscular strength, flexibility, sleep quality, energy expenditure, and psychological well-being. Despite these promising findings, this review highlights the need for standardized methodologies and detailed reporting in future research. Incorporating strength training into general exercise recommendations for pregnant women has the potential to optimize maternal health outcomes such as muscle strength, weight gain, physical activity levels, low back pain, pelvic pain, fatigue, anxiety, energy levels, vitality, sleep duration, and health status.

Effectiveness of physiotherapy and its impact on the quality of life of patients compared to other therapeutic approaches in the management of female sexual dysfunction in non-menopausal adult population: a systematic review.

Female sexual dysfunction (FSD) affects quality of life, presenting as reduced sexual desire, arousal issues, pain, and orgasm difficulties. Its multifactorial causes include physical and psychological factors, with about 43% of women in the United States affected. To evaluate the efficacy of physiotherapy compared to other treatments (medical, psychological, pharmacological) in improving sexual function and quality of life in adult women with sexual dysfunction, excluding menopausal women. It synthesizes evidence on physiotherapeutic treatments, such as pelvic floor exercises, manual therapy, biofeedback, electrotherapy, and pelvic function education. Following PRISMA guidelines, a comprehensive search was conducted in PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science. Inclusion criteria encompassed studies evaluating the effectiveness of physiotherapy in adult women with sexual dysfunction, excluding postmenopausal. Data extraction and quality assessment were performed using standardized tools. Of the 708 identified studies, 8 met the inclusion criteria. The studies demonstrated significant improvements in Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) domains following physiotherapeutic interventions, notably reducing pain and enhancing desire and arousal. However, heterogeneity among studies precluded meta-analysis, necessitating qualitative synthesis. Physiotherapy, particularly pelvic floor muscle training and multimodal approaches, proved effective in enhancing sexual function and reducing pain. While physiotherapy offers a non-invasive alternative with fewer side effects compared to surgical options, variability in intervention protocols indicates the need for standardization. Psychological and emotional factors are key in sexual dysfunction, highlighting the value of integrated treatments. Capacitive resistive monopolar radiofrequency with manual therapy improved sexual function in women with dyspareunia, though benefits were short-lived, underscoring the need for maintenance strategies. Physiotherapy is an effective intervention for FSD, significantly improving quality of life. Incorporating physiotherapy into clinical rehabilitation programs is recommended. Further research with standardized protocols and long-term follow-ups is necessary to consolidate evidence and optimize treatment strategies.

A Chinese prospective cohort research developed and validated a risk prediction model for patients with cervical cancer

ObjectiveCervical cancer constitutes a formidable health challenge imperiling the well-being and lives of women globally, particularly in underdeveloped nations. The survival rates among patients diagnosed with cervical cancer manifest considerable heterogeneity, shaped by a myriad of variables. Within the scope of this inquiry, a predictive model for projecting overall survival (OS) in cervical cancer patients was formulated and subsequently validated.MethodsClinicopathological and follow-up information of patients diagnosed with cervical cancer were prospectively collected from May 1, 2015, to December 12, 2019, as part of an ongoing longitudinal cohort study conducted at Chongqing University Cancer Hospital. Subsequent to the acquisition of follow-up data, the sample was randomly divided into two cohorts: a training cohort (n = 2788) and a testing cohort (n = 1194). The predictors for the model were selected through least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression analysis. Cox stepwise regression analysis was then employed to identify independent predictive indicators. The study results were subsequently presented in the form of static and web-based dynamic nomograms. To elucidate the objective validation of the prognosis and anticipated survival, the concordance index (C-index) was computed. The model’s discriminatory ability across various variables and its predictive performance were assessed through calibration plots. Additionally, the predictive model’s capacity for outcome prediction and its net benefit were evaluated using the Net Reclassification Index (NRI) and Decision Curve Analysis (DCA) curves.ResultsThe final model regarded the following variables from the training cohort as independent risk factors for cervical cancer patients: age, medical insurance, pathology, HPV infection status, chemotherapy, β2-microglobulin, neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR). The C-indices of OS for the training group were 0.769 (95% CI, 0.748–0.789) and for the testing cohort were 0.779 (95% CI, 0.751–0.808). In both the training and testing cohorts, the calibration curve for estimating the chance of survival exhibited a significant agreement between prediction by nomogram and actual observation. In the training cohort, the areas under the curve (AUC) of the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves for 1-year, 3-year, and 5-year OS were 0.811, 0.760, and 0.782, respectively, while in the testing cohort, they were 0.818, 0.780, and 0.778, respectively. The Net Reclassification Index (NRI) and Decision Curve Analysis (DCA) provided evidence of the model’s superior predictive ability and net benefit when compared to the FIGO Staging system.ConclusionThe prediction methods effectively forecasted the outcomes of cervical cancer patients. Due to the model’s excellent calibration and discrimination, it provided a reliable approach for predicting patient survival, potentially supporting the implementation of individualized treatment strategies.

Equal Dignity and Agency: Catholic Social Teaching &amp; The Lives of Women

Greater inclusion of women is a priority of Pope Francis’s pontificate. He has taken practical steps in appointing women within the Vatican and called for a “deeper theology of women.” Within Catholic social teaching, however, the voices and lives of women remain largely absent. Centring the complex stories from women’s lives gathered through fieldwork, this article argues that women must be embraced as “dignified agents” and not simply as the “doubly poor” or paragons of “heroic daily virtue.” First, I will examine the development of CST on women prior to Francis revealing tensions between the way the tradition treats public vs. private roles. Second, this article will analyze the contribution of Pope Francis. And finally, I will lift up Fratelli Tutti’s approach to the parable of the good Samaritan as a microcosm for the moral life as opening new space for the full lives and dignity of women within the tradition.

Effect of whole-body vibration on quality of life in diabetic postmenopausal women

Effect of whole-body vibration on quality of life in diabetic postmenopausal women

Technology-based comprehensive cardiac rehabilitation therapy for women in a middle-income setting: a randomized controlled trial.

Women are under-represented in cardiac rehabilitation (CR), especially in lower-income settings. This study tested Technology-bAsed Cardiac rehabilitation Therapy (TaCT) on functional capacity, risk factors, quality of life (QoL; MacNew), heart-health behaviours (e.g. Global Physical Activity Questionnaire), cardiac symptoms (e.g. angina), and morbidity (e.g. hospitalization and procedure) in women. Single-centre, single-blind, two parallel arms (1:1 SNOSE) randomized superiority trial, undertaken in an Indian outpatient cardiology department, where women with stable cardiac disease and smartphone access were recruited. TaCT was compared with standard care (CR rare), with assessments conducted before the intervention, and 6 months later. The 6-month comprehensive intervention was delivered via several technologies. Exercise prescriptions were based on an Incremental Shuttle Walk Test (ISWT; primary outcome). Analyses were based on intention-to-treat. Fifty women were randomized to intervention, and 50 to control (n = 89; 89.0% retained). There were few tobacco users. Results for the following outcomes favoured intervention: functional capacity [ISWT effect size = 0.3 (95% confidence interval = 1.0 to -0.2), P = 0.002; Duke Activity Status Index P < 0.001; Sit-to-Stand P = 0.003], QoL (global and all subscale P's < 0.001), and heart-health behaviours (exercise P < 0.001; medication adherence P = 0.02), and anxiety (P = 0.002). There were no significant differences in blood pressure, waist circumference, or cardiac symptoms. Three participants in the intervention group experienced morbidity and 1 suffered mortality and 9 in controls experienced morbidity only. The TaCT program significantly improved functional capacity, QoL, heart-health behaviours and anxiety in women with cardiovascular disease in a middle-income country, demonstrating the potential of technology-based CR tailored for women in these settings. CTRI/2021/07/035197 URL: https://ctri.nic.in/Clinicaltrials/rmaindet.php?trialid=51810&EncHid=79231.15408&modid=1&compid=19.

Pilot study of an ecological momentary music intervention for stress reduction in Turkish immigrant women perceiving chronic ethnic discrimination

Perceived ethnic discrimination is a stressor that negatively affects mental and physical health. To address this issue, we tested the feasibility and preliminary effectiveness of an ecological momentary music intervention for stress reduction in everyday life in Turkish immigrant women perceiving chronic ethnic discrimination. Following an intra-individual randomized design, we combined subjective assessments and biological measures (salivary cortisol and alpha-amylase). Using a smartphone-based app, twenty participants responded to stress- and discrimination-related items four times a day for 35 days, and additionally reported each stressful/discriminatory event they perceived. Participants were then randomly instructed to listen to music or not. At each measurement time point, participants provided saliva samples. The feasibility of the ecological momentary music intervention was indicated by high usage rates of the app and participants’ positive self-reports. We found immediate (post 1: b = − 14.64, p = .045, post 2: b = − 14.62, p = .047) and intermediate (b = − 0.81, p < .001) effects of music listening on subjective stress levels but not on biological stress levels. Our study provides valuable insights into the potential of music listening for stress reduction in the everyday life of Turkish immigrant women perceiving chronic ethnic discrimination.

Advanced formulation of intimate lubricating gel for relief of atrophic vaginitis in menopausal women

Climacteric is a period in which several symptoms are triggered in women's health, bringing about profound changes of both positive and negative nature. Among these, the onset of menopause, characterized by the last menstruation, stands out, which results in the reduction of the woman's reproductive capacity. In this sense, intimate lubricating gels were manufactured to combat atrophic vaginitis in climacteric women. This research aimed to prepare and develop intimate lubricating gels based on water and hydroalcoholic extract of medicinal plants (phytoestrogens) aiming at revitalizing the vaginal mucosa and improving the quality of life of climacteric women. The preliminary stability assessment revealed that the gels produced presented organoleptic and physicochemical parameters by the ANVISA Cosmetic Product Stability Guide, given that they showed signs of constancy throughout the evaluation. Therefore, the gels produced are capable of mitigating vaginal dryness, genital burning (dyspareunia), irritation, lack of lubrication and discomfort during sexual intercourse and recurrent urinary infections.

The Interconnectedness of Others, Self, and God: Unmarried Older Balinese Women’s Journeys Toward a Meaningful Life

Our society constructs women’s roles as wives and mothers. Likewise, the Balinese positions women as caretakers who are obligated to marry, provide offspring, and look after their family. Therefore, women who choose to be single, especially until late adulthood, are stigmatised as selfish and immature. This study aims to understand what constitutes a meaningful life for unmarried older women and the related factors that support a meaningful life. The participants were five unmarried older Balinese women. Interview data were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis by Braun &amp; Clarke and show that a meaningful life for unmarried older women consists of Others (meaningful social relationships), Self (being grateful in life), and God (believing in God). To achieve a meaningful life, self-acceptance as an older and unmarried person is needed. The findings are expected to inform policies and programs that emphasise the social activity and connection between older people and their communities.

On the quality of life of women with adenomyosis

Aim. To evaluate quality of life in women with adenomyosis using the Endometriosis Health Profile-5 questionnaire.Materials and methods. A total of 127 women with various forms of confirmed adenomyosis were studied. After the evaluation, all participants were divided into four groups according to the treatment method used.Results and discussion. Each woman was provided with a medical record that included the Endometriosis Health Profile (EHP-5+6) questionnaire, which was completed at the initial visit and again at 6 and 12 months after treatment. Analysis of the patients’ responses revealed differences in the impact of different treatment regimens on quality of life. Specifically, treatment with combined low-dose oral contraceptives (ethinyl estradiol + chlormadinone) and hysterectomy in cases of adenomyosis produced the best results, showing the greatest improvement in most quality-of-life domains. The Mirena LNG IUD was also effective, although to a lesser extent than the other two treatment groups.Conclusion. The use of standardized questionnaires to assess quality of life is an important tool for monitoring treatment efficacy and improving therapeutic approaches to adenomyosis. The choice of treatment strategy should be based on the woman’s age, reproductive plans and clinical symptoms. It is crucial to initiate treatment at the first clinical manifestation of the disease, with a therapy that is long-term, effective, and safe.

Analyzing the Prevalence of Iron Deficiency Anemia: A Study on Children under Five at Bay Regional Hospital in Baidoa, Southwest State of Somalia

Background: Like many countries in the low-income, underdeveloped world, a large number of people in Somalia suffer from anemia, an illness that massively endangers the lives of children and pregnant women. Yet, there is paucity of reliable scholarly studies that discuss anemia and iron deficiency related diseases in the country. In particular, the district of Baidoa in the Southwest State of Somalia, shares a lot of this lack of scholarly work that commonly exists in other parts of the country. Living in a complex situation of acute poverty, and a stubborn cycle of drought, famine and floods, Baidoa has a huge number of children severely affected by malnourishment and types of anemia caused by iron deficiency. Objective: This study aims to shed light on the prevalence of iron deficiency anemia among children under 5 years who visited Bay Regional Hospital for treatment in the year 2020 and their condition after undergoing treatment for the required or recommended period of time for recovery from the illness. Method: The study used quantitative case study method of observation of existing archival materials accessed at Bay Regional Hospital in Baidoa District, Southwest State of Somalia. It used data compiled on a sample size of 94 children under age 5 who were anemia patients admitted and treated in the hospital in the year 2020. Results: Of the 94 under age 5 child patients, 84% were cured, 5.4% were recorded as defaulters who absconded before completion of the prescribed treatment period, 9.6% needed special care and were referred to a specialized health institution for further treatment, while 1% succumbed to the disease. Conclusion: Although IDA is prevalent among children in Baidoa, particularly as revealed in the current study on child patients admitted at Baidoa District’s Bay Regional Hospital, the effort by parents, medical professionals, health authority, donors and other stakeholders to fight the disease is yielding laudable results. With more awareness

Exploring the Relationships between Resilience, Menopausal Symptoms and Quality of Life in Perimenopause Women. A Cross-Sectional Study

The purpose of this study was to assess the influence of resilience and quality of life (QoL) in menopause women. The study further examines the moderating role of socio-demographic variables in relationship with menopause symptoms. This cross-sectional study, employed multi-stage sampling technique to sample 386 perimenopause women from the urban population of Islamabad for the study. The menopause rating scale (MRS), Nicholson McBride Resilience Questionnaire (NMRS), and Quality of life scale were used to collect data. The perimenopause women aged between 40 – 55 years were included and those who were at menopause were excluded. The results showed that the majority of responders 142 (36.5%), were between the ages of 40 and 45, married people made up 83.8%. and 60.4% of the women had a degree or diploma. Our study found a significant relationship between quality of life and menopause symptoms (p=0.01) but no association between resilience and menopause symptoms. Further analysis revealed that only the predominant lifestyle demographic variable was related to menopause symptoms (p=.0.01). This study concluded that the overall frequency of menopause symptoms in perimenopause women was low. The resilience level of perimenopause women was at a developing level and quality of life was good. There was no link between resilience and menopause symptoms but menopause symptom was linked with quality of life.