Women's Reproductive Health Research Articles

Вплив артифіційних абортів на стан репродуктивного здоров’я жінок фертильного віку. Результати когортного дослідження

Data on the negative impact of artificial abortions in the early stages on a woman's reproductive health are contradictory. Variables that may affect the results include study design, gestational age at the time of abortion, duration of follow-up, and procedure’s type. Aim - to analyze the impact of early artificial abortions on the reproductive womenʼs health. Materials and methods. A retrospective cohort study was conducted, which included 549 consecutively recruited women, of which: 119 respondents with a history of induced abortions made up the experimental group, 430 without artificial termination of pregnancy - the comparison group. An analysis of the gynecological and obstetrical anamnesis was carried out. Statistical data processing was carried out using the SPSS 21 program. Results. It was established that the presence of artificial abortions in the anamnesis is associated with an increase in the frequency of infertility, colpitis, cervix dysplasia, salpingo-oophoritis, uterus inflammatory diseases, habitual miscarriage, and also increase in the obstetric complications frequency (spontaneous miscarriages at an early stage, the threat of termination of pregnancy, premature births, abdominal surgical delivery, placental complications). Conclusions. Analysis of the artificial abortions consequences indicates the presence of various disorders in reproductive system of fertile women. This study did not involve any experiments on animals or humans. No conflict of interests was declared by the authors.

Роль ангиогенного фактора в развитии эндометриальной дисфункции у женщин репродуктивного возраста с аномальными маточными кровотечениями и ожирением

The steady increase in the number of patients with abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB) has a negative impact on a woman's reproductive health. Obesity is defined as one of the risk factors for AUB and its role in the development of AUB-M and AUB-O has been studied to date. However, our earlier analysis of the results of histological examination of endometrial biopsies showed that in obese women with AUB, the desquamation phase (AUB-E) is significantly more common in the endometrium than in normal-weight women. One of the possible pathogenetic mechanisms may be abnormal endometrial vascularization due to systemic proinflammatory status and local tissue hypoxia. Aim. To identify the features of the expression of endothelial markers CD34+ and eNOS in endometrial biopsies of patients with AUB and obesity and their role in the pathogenesis of endometrial dysfunction. Materials and methods. A prospective randomized cohort study included 40 patients of reproductive age with AUB-E. Depending on the presence of obesity, women were stratified into 2 groups: 20 patients with AUB-E and obesity (group 1) and 20 normal-weight patients with AUB-E (group 2). 10 healthy women of reproductive age were included as a control group. All patients underwent endometrial biopsy followed by histological examination according to the standard procedure. At the second stage, an immunohistochemical study of CD34+ and eNOS angiogenesis markers was performed using monoclonal mouse antibodies in standard dilution. The IBM SPSS Statistics v.26 program (IBM Corporation, USA) was used for statistical data analysis. Results. CD34+ expression in patients with AUB and obesity was significantly higher than in normal-weight patients with AUB and healthy women (2,5±0,2, respectively; 95% CI 2,1–2,8 vs. 1,8±0,2; 95% CI 1,5–2,2 and 0,5±0,1; 95% CI 0,4–0,6; p1-2=0,03; p1-3<0,001; p2-3<0,001), as well as eNOS expression (respectively 8,7±0,6; 95% CI 7,3–10,0 vs. 4,0±0,5; 95% CI 3–5 and 1,3±0,2; 95% CI 0,9–1,7; p1-2<0,001; p1-3<0,001; p2-3<0,001). Conclusion. Patients with AUB-E and obesity are characterized by increased expression of CD34+ and eNOS in endometrial tissue, which indicates pathological activation of neoangigenesis. Perhaps one of the mechanisms of pathogenesis is the formation of a proinflammatory profile against the background of obesity, which contributes to the pathological hypervascularization of the endometrium. Effective weight loss measures can probably reduce the incidence and recurrence of AUB-E.

Injectable "Homing-Like" Bioactive Short-Fibers for Endometrial Repair and Efficient Live Births.

The prevalence of infertility caused by endometrial defects is steadily increasing, posing a significant challenge to women's reproductive health. In this study, injectable "homing-like" bioactive decellularized extracellular matrix short-fibers (DEFs) of porcine skin origin are innovatively designed for endometrial and fertility restoration. The DEFs can effectively bind to endometrial cells through noncovalent dipole interactions and release bioactive growth factors in situ. In vitro, the DEFs effectively attracted endometrial cells through the "homing-like" effect, enabling cell adhesion, spreading, and proliferation on their surface. Furthermore, the DEFs effectively facilitated the proliferation and angiogenesis of human primary endometrial stromal cells (HESCs) and human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs), and inhibited fibrosis of pretreated HESCs. In vivo, the DEFs significantly accelerated endometrial restoration, angiogenesis, and receptivity. Notably, the deposition of endometrial collagen decreased from 41.19 ± 2.16% to 14.15 ± 1.70% with DEFs treatment. Most importantly, in endometrium-injured rats, the use of DEFs increased the live birth rate from 30% to an impressive 90%, and the number and development of live births close to normal rats. The injectable "homing-like" bioactive DEFs system can achieve efficient live births and intrauterine injection of DEFs provides a new promising clinical strategy for endometrial factor infertility.

ROLE OF PANCHAKARMA IN GYNAECOLOGICAL DISEASES

Artava, Shonita, Asrika, Raja, Rakta, Lohita, Rudhir and Pushpa are some of the words used in the Ayurvedic classics to denote menstrual blood or ovum. Some Acharaya consider Artava as Updhatu of Rasa while others consider it as Updhatu of Rakta. Artava is Agneya and has characteristics similar to Rakta. According to Ayurvedic science, Artava, in various forms, maintains women's reproductive health. When Artava becomes vitiated, it can become the prime cause of diseases in women. Hence, Artava is considered a prime element in maintaining women's health. As the normal function of Artava can maintain the balance in the female reproductive system, the same balance can get disturbed when there is vitiation of Dosha, manifesting conditions like Artava Dusti and Yonivyapada. Panchakarma can play a vital role in treating these abnormal conditions.

Examining the relationship between urban household food insecurity and under-five mortality in Lideta Sub-city, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

Household food insecurity increases the risk of morbidity and mortality in children. Improved reproductive health in women enhances the nutrition status of children, while better food security helps children survive. This study aims to examine the relationship between food insecurity and under-five mortality. A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted from February to March 2023 in Lideta Sub-City, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. A total of 605 women of reproductive age were selected using multistage sampling. A Pearson Chi-square test (χ2) and logistic regression were used to assess the association between food insecurity and under-five mortality after adjusting for other covariates. The result of the study shows that food security status was a significant predictor of under-five mortality at p < 0.05. According to the findings, women from food-insecure households were 3.89 times more likely to experience under-five mortality compared to women from food-secure households. Similarly, women’s education, age at first birth, initiation of breastfeeding, child’s age and sex, birth order, and the number of children ever born were significant predictors of under-five mortality at p < 0.05. These outcomes reinforce the notion that food insecurity is a significant public health concern. Consequently, national and regional considerations should prioritize addressing household food insecurity and cases of acute malnutrition to achieve sustainable development goals.

Analysis of Factors That Influence Fertility in Women in North Kuta District Badung Regency

Fertility is a crucial indicator in demographic studies and has direct implications for population development. The fertility rate refers to the average number of live births that a woman or a population in a specific area and time period can produce. The Total Fertility Rate (TFR) in Badung is relatively low compared to other regions, standing at 1,93. This may influence slower population growth. However, it's important to note that low TFR is not the sole factor affecting population growth. Other factors such as migration, mortality, birth rates, and population mobility can also impact population growth. This research aims to analyze the factors influencing fertility rates in the North Kuta District of Badung Regency. The variables considered in this study include education, family income, age at first marriage, and contraceptive use concerning fertility rates in the North Kuta District of Badung Regency, both simultaneously and partially. The data for this study are entirely based on primary and secondary sources. The research was conducted in the North Kuta District of Badung Regency, with a sample size of 100 couples of childbearing age, using purposive sampling. The analytical technique employed in this research is Multiple Linear Regression Analysis. The findings indicate that education has a negative and non-significant influence on fertility, while income, age at first marriage, and contraceptive use have a positive and significant impact on fertility. This research is expected to contribute significantly to improving women's reproductive health in controlling birth rates and enhancing family well-being.

Caregivers’ concerns about the sexual and reproductive health of women with intellectual disability in Iran: a qualitative study

BackgroundWomen with intellectual disability (ID) have many sexual and reproductive problems. This study was conducted to explain the sexual and reproductive health considerations of women with ID from the perspective of their caregivers in a qualitative approach.MethodsThis study was a qualitative research conducted with a content analysis approach in Iran. The sampling method used was targeted sampling with maximum possible variation, which was continued until data saturation. For data collection, in-depth and semi-structured interviews were conducted with 21 participants, including 8 mothers, 6 caregivers, and 7 specialist caregivers who had experience working with women with intellectual disabilities. Data analysis was conducted using the conventional content analysis method proposed by Zhang and Wildemuth.ResultsTwo main themes, four categories and 12 subcategories emerged from the data analysis. The themes include “Reproductive health concerns” and” "Sexual health concerns”. This means that this group of women has many problems with menstrual hygiene and vaginal infections. On the other hand, caregivers were concerned about the manifestations of unconventional sexual behaviors and difficulties in controlling sexual behaviors as well as the risk of sexual abuse.ConclusionThe results of the present study show that it is not only necessary to provide women with ID with practical instructions on menstrual hygiene and sexual self-care, but also that regular examinations of the reproductive system by obstetricians or midwives, especially in care centers, seem essential.

Hydrogel- and Nanocomposite-Based Drug-Delivery Strategies in the Treatment of Vaginal Infections.

The reproductive health of women is governed by an optimal balance in the host-microbiota interaction. Depletion of the beneficial vaginal microflora caused by depletion of Lactobacillus species and increased proliferation of pathogens results in gynaecological infections. Among women of reproductive age, vaginal infections are increasingly prevalent. Attaining therapeutic efficacy using conventional formulations remains a challenge as vaginal fluids quickly remove or dilute the therapeutic formulations. Hydrogels have been widely exploited for targeted delivery of therapeutics directly into the vaginal mucus. With a careful choice of polymers (natural, synthetic, or semisynthetic), hydrogels with specific properties, such as stimuli responsiveness, antimicrobial, and muco-adhesiveness, can be tailored for higher therapeutic efficacy. In this review, the advances in hydrogel strategies for the treatment of vaginal infections are presented with emphasis on the types and properties that play a significant role in vaginal drug delivery systems.

Pengelolaan Limbah Padat Menstruasi Siswi Sekolah Menengah Pertama di Provinsi Sumatera Barat

Menstrual Hygiene Management (MHM) is part of the government's program for women's reproductive health. Adolescents' understanding of MHM in developing countries is still low. The study aimed to explore the actions, knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions of female students about facilities and infrastructure, as well as the role of parents in managing menstrual solid waste. The method used is a quantitative method with a cross-sectional approach. The study population was junior high school students in Padang Panjang City and Padang Pariaman Regency, with a sample of 234 people. Data were analyzed univariately, bivariately, and multivariately using SPSS. Almost half of respondents took poor action in managing menstrual solid waste (44.9%), had low knowledge (44.4%), had a negative attitude (44.4%), had a poor perception of supporting facilities and facilities (48.3%), and stated that there was no role of parents/families in managing menstrual solid waste (43.2%). There was a significant relationship between the level of knowledge, respondents' attitudes, and the role of parents with menstrual solid waste management measures. However, there is no relationship between the perception of the availability of facilities and infrastructure and action. The level of knowledge and attitude has the most significant influence in determining the actions taken by respondents. The government is expected to provide socialization to the public on how to dispose of menstrual solid waste and provide adequate sanitation facilities and infrastructure. Parents also provide guidance early on

Unraveling the link: environmental tobacco smoke exposure and its impact on infertility among American women (18-50 years).

The detrimental effects of environmental tobacco smoke (ETS) on women's reproductive health have been widely recognized. However, the detailed association between exposure to environmental tobacco smoke and the incidence of infertility remains under-explored. This investigation focuses on exploring this potential connection. For this analysis, we extracted data from the US National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) database, covering the years 2013 to 2018, focusing on individuals with recorded serum cotinine levels and infertility information. ETS exposure and fertility status were analyzed as independent and dependent variables, respectively. We applied weighted multivariate logistic regression method to evaluate the impact of ETS on infertility, including subgroup analyses for more detailed insights. The study encompassed 3,343 participants. Logistic regression analysis revealed a notable positive correlation between ETS exposure and infertility, with an odds ratio (OR) of 1.64 (95% Confidence Interval [CI]: 1.14-2.36). We observed a non-linear relationship between ETS exposure and infertility risk. Notably, infertility risk increased by 64% in serum cotinine levels above 0.136 compared to that in serum cotinine levels below 0.011. Further, subgroup analysis and interaction tests showed consistent results across different segments, underscoring the robustness of the ETS-infertility link. Our findings suggest that environmental tobacco smoke exposure may be a contributing factor to infertility. These results reinforce the recommendation for women in their reproductive years to avoid ETS exposure, especially when planning for pregnancy.

Role of gut microbiota derived short chain fatty acid metabolites in modulating female reproductive health

Short chain fatty acids (SCFA) have been linked to women's reproductive health, though to a lesser extent, alteration in the production of SCFA and SCFA-producing bacteria has been associated significantly with pregnancy-related complications, unfavourable pregnancy outcomes, menstrual anomalies, and gynaecological cancer.The female reproductive system is a delicate, intricate, hormone-dependent group of tissues required for the continuity of life and the species' survival. Reproductive health impacts the ovarian function to implantation and foetal development. Several environmental and physiological factors contribute to mammalian infertility concerns caused by a change in reproductive health status. Several lifestyle factors have been demonstrated to affect reproductive health, including age, body weight, smoking, alcohol consumption, work stress, exercise, diet, and nutrition. Nutrition influences puberty, the menstrual cycle, ovulation, conception, implantation and early foetal development. This review provides an overview of how intestinal derived SCFAs maintains female reproductive health summarizing the current knowledge and future perspectives. Microbial SCFAs improve human metabolism by interfering with, glucose homeostasis, appetite regulation and lipid metabolism. Also affect host immunity and intestinal barrier integrity via primary by inhibition of Histone deacetylases (HDAC) mechanism. Therefore, SCFAs exhibit anti-inflammatory, anti-obesity, immunoregulatory, anti-diabetes, anti-cancer, hepatoprotective, cardiovascular protective and neuroprotective properties.This review highlights recent findings on SCFA and gynaecological pathologies such as preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, pregnancy complications, polycystic ovary syndrome, bacterial vaginosis, and endometriosis to describe current knowledge of the relationship between SCFA and reproductive health and disease in women.

(181) Female Sexuality During the Menopausal Transition: The Experience of Tunisian women

Abstract Introduction The menopausal transition is a gradual passage from pre-menopause to menopause. It is characterized by hormonal changes that affect a woman's reproductive and sexual health. Understanding the impact of the menopausal transition on sexual functioning is important for providing comprehensive care to these women. Objective Objective: In this study, we aimed to evaluate female sexuality in middle-aged Tunisian women using the female sexual function index (FSFI) Methods This was a descriptive and analytic transversal study, conducted at the Hammam-Lif sexual and reproductive health center over a period of 06 months from February 1st to July 31st, 2022. We included 162 women aged between 40 and 65 years old. We used a validated Arabic version of the Female Sexual Function Index to assess female sexual function. Results The average age of women included in our study was 48.27 years. The majority of questioned women were peri-menopausal, i.e. 40.74%, 35.8% were in pre-menopause and 23.6% were in post-menopause. Moreover, among postmenopausal women, only one patient took hormone replacement therapy. The mean gestity was 3.6 and mean parity was 2.5 in our study population. The majority of women had a gestation greater than or equal to three [0 to 8] and a parity greater than or equal to 2 [0 to 8], i.e. in 80.25% of cases. The mean FSFI score was 18.83 ±7.19, with extremes ranging from 2 to 30.4. The prevalence of sexual dysfunction in our study was as high as 88.9 %. The analysis of our results showed a degradation of the FSFI score from perimenopause to postmenopausal: it went from 21.21±6.4 in pre-menopause, to 18.56±7.33 in perimenopause and 15.65±7.11 in postmenopausal. The difference between the three periods was statistically significant (p=0.030). This decline was statistically significant for three domains namely desire (p=0.033), arousal (p=0.047), and orgasm (p<0.01). Conclusions The prevalence of female sexual dysfunction is quite high and tends to increase with age. The role of healthcare professionals is essential in caring for women and helping them overcome sexual health problems that arise during the menopausal transition period. Disclosure No.

Family Caregivers' Attitudes and Perspectives About the Sexual and Reproductive Health of Women With Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities: An Online Survey.

Although sexual and reproductive health is critically important for women with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), there is limited research elucidating the role of family caregivers in assisting women with IDD access sexual and reproductive health services and information. Understanding the family caregivers' attitudes and perspectives is essential to improving access to sexual and reproductive health services and information for women with IDD. A cross-sectional online survey of family caregivers of women with IDD was administered between June and October 2018. Quantitative analysis was conducted for closed-ended responses, and qualitative analysis was conducted for open-ended responses. The analytic sample included 132 family caregivers. Most participants were parents and reported being closely involved in their family member's access to sexual and reproductive health services and information. Although most participants expressed that sexual and reproductive health services and information are essential for women with IDD, qualitative analysis of participants' open-ended responses revealed both supportive and restrictive attitudes and perspectives on sexual and reproductive health services and information for women with IDD. Supportive attitudes and perspectives included (1) "knowledge is power;" (2) supported decision-making; and (3) protection against sexual abuse. Restrictive attitudes and perspectives included (1) dependent on the individual; (2) lack of autonomy; and (3) placing responsibility on disability. Greater attention from policymakers and practitioners to systems-level changes, including universal and accessible sexual education for women with IDD, supported decision-making, and sexual abuse prevention measures, are urgently needed.

Factor V Leiden G1691A, Prothrombin G20210A, and MTHFR C677T Mutations among Sudanese Women with Recurrent Pregnancy Loss

Background: Various factors, such as genetic causes, anatomic abnormalities of the uterus, infectious diseases, coagulative disorders, and endocrinological and immunological diseases, might influence recurrent pregnancy loss (RLP). This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence and frequency of the FII G20210A, FVL G1691A, and MTHFR C677T polymorphisms in Sudanese women with RPL. Methods and Results: This descriptive cross-sectional study involved 100 women with a history of 3 or more RPLs (the case group) and 94 healthy multiparous women without pregnancy complications (the control group). DNA was extracted from peripheral blood samples. The study of the FII G20210A, FVL G1691A, and MTHFR C677T polymorphisms was performed by PCR and RFLP analysis. For the FII G20210A, the genotype distribution in the case group and control group was as follows: GG=97.0%, GA=3.0%, AA=0% and GG=94.0%, GA=0%, AA=0%, respectively. In the case group, the allelic distribution was as follows: G=98.5%, A=1.5%. In the control group, the A allele was absent, and the frequency of the G allele was 100%. For the MTHFR C677T, the genotypic and allelic frequencies in the case group were 97%, 3%, and 0%, respectively, for the CC, CT, and TT genotypes, and 98.5% and 1.5%, respectively, for the C and T alleles. In the control group, the genotype distribution was as follows: CC-100% CT-0%, TT-0%; the T allele was absent, and the frequency of the C allele was 100%. For the FVL G1691A, the genotype distribution in the case group and control group was as follows: GG=92.0%, GA=8.0%, AA=0% and GG=93.6%, GA=6.4%, AA=0%, respectively. For G and A alleles, the frequencies were 96.0% and 4.0%, respectively, for the case group, and 96.8% and 3.2%, respectively, for the control group. Our analysis did not reveal a significant positive association between the MTHFR C677T, FII G20210A, and FVL G1691A polymorphisms and the risk of RPL across the dominant model, multiplicative model, and a comparison of the frequencies of the heterozygous and homozygous dominant genotypes. Conclusion: The research findings suggest that the MTHFR C677T, FVL G1691A, and FII G20210A variants do not significantly contribute to the increased susceptibility to RPL in this specific population of Sudanese women. Continued scientific inquiry is crucial for developing more nuanced and personalized strategies for the diagnosis and prevention of RPL, ultimately improving women's reproductive health.

Pengaruh Kesehatan Reproduksi Wanita dan Pemberdayaan Wanita Terhadap Tingkat Partisipasi Angkatan Kerja Wanita di Indonesia

This study aims to find out and analyze how the influence of women's reproductive health and women's empowerment on the participation rate of the female workforce in Indonesia. This study used secondary data sourced from the Indonesian Central Bureau of Statistics with the research variables grouped into two parts, namely the bond variable which in this study was determined as the female labor force participation rate and the independent variables consisting of women's life expectancy, young women's marriage, female mother, female education level, female per capita income and female involvement in parliament. This study uses panel data regression analysis with the selected method, namely the Common Effect Model (CEM). The results showed that women's life expectancy, young women's marriage, women's fertility rates and women's involvement in parliament each had a negative and insignificant effect on women's labor force participation. Women's education level has a negative and significant effect on female labor force participation and women's per capita income has a positive and significant effect on female labor force participation.

Female Genital Schistosomiasis: A Neglected among the Neglected Tropical Diseases.

Schistosomiasis is a neglected parasitic disease linked to water, posing a global public health concern with a significant burden in sub-Saharan Africa. It is transmitted by Schistosoma spp., causing both acute and chronic effects affecting the urogenital or the hepato-intestinal system. Through granuloma formation, chronic schistosomiasis weakens host immunity, heightening susceptibility to coinfections. Notably, female genital schistosomiasis (FGS), a disregarded gynecological condition, adversely affects girls' and women's reproductive health and increases vulnerability to HIV. This review explores the intricate interplay between schistosomiasis and HIV, considering their geographical overlap. We delve into the clinical features of this coinfection, underlying mutual influences on transmission, diagnostic challenges, and therapeutic approaches. Understanding the dynamics of FGS and HIV coinfection is pivotal for integrated healthcare strategies in regions with co-endemicity, aiming to mitigate the impact of the two infections on vulnerable populations.

Contraindicated use of modern contraceptives among mothers from a Pelotas Birth Cohort.

To describe the prevalence of contraindicated use of combined hormonal contraceptives, progesterone-only contraceptives, and intrauterine devices in mothers participating in the 2015 Pelotas Birth Cohort according to the WHO medical eligibility criteria. The biological mothers of children belonging to the 2015 Pelotas birth cohort who attended the 48-month follow-up were studied. The 48-month follow-up data were collected from January 1, 2019, to December 31, 2019. Contraindicated use of modern contraceptives was considered to occur when these women presented at least one of the contraindications for the use of modern contraceptives and were using these methods. The prevalence of contraindicated use was calculated according to each independent variable and their respective 95% confidence intervals (95%CI). The analyzed sample consisted of 3,053 women who used any modern contraceptive method. The prevalence of contraindicated use of modern contraceptives totaled 25.9% (95%CI: 24.4-27.5). Combined hormonal contraceptives showed the highest prevalence of contraindicated use (52.1%; 95%CI: 49.3-54.8). The prevalence of contraindicated use of modern contraceptives methods was greater in women with family income between one and three minimum wages, a 25-30 kg/m2 body mass index, indication by a gynecologist for the used method, and purchasing the contraceptive method at a pharmacy. The higher the women's education, the lower the prevalence of inappropriate use of modern contraceptives. In total, one in four women used modern contraceptives despite showing at least one contraindication. Policies regarding women's reproductive health should be strengthened.

The role of available resources to identify and treat low-income women with postpartum depression during Covid-19✰

Postpartum depression (PPD) is a frequent complication that occurs during the postpartum period. New mothers are at risk of developing psychiatric disorders including depression. Depression leads to impairments in social functioning, quality of life, and increased risk of health problems. In the United States, PPD is experienced by up to one in seven women (American Psychological Association, 2008) with a range of 8 % to 20 % (Webber & Benedict, 2019). Global responses to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic in 2020 made prevalent existing sexual, reproductive health, and justice inequities among women, girls, and vulnerable populations. Efforts to address the COVID-19 pandemic have affected the sexual and reproductive health of women with increased cases of domestic violence, deaths among women, and depression. This study aimed to uncover the role of available resources in identifying and treating low-income women with PPD. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to interview low-income women of childbearing age (18–51), pregnant, or with children aged 2 or younger to learn from their experiences accessing resources to report symptoms and get treated for PPD during the COVID-19 pandemic. All 8 participants were Latinas between the age of 18–51; with low income defined by their family annual household income and by being a beneficiary of a financial assistance program like WIC and Medicaid; had a baby since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic in March of 2020; had been diagnosed with PPD or with at least five clinical symptoms of PPD (inability to sleep or sleeping much, mood swings, change in appetite, fear of harming herself or the baby, extreme concern and worry about the baby, sadness or excessive crying, feelings of doubt, guilt and helplessness, difficulty concentrating and remembering, loss of interest in hobbies, and thoughts of death) lasting more than 4 weeks. Participants with English or Spanish as their primary language were interviewed. Five themes emerged from the interviews including 1. Fear, anxiety, and loss of interest; 2. Social support; 3. Barriers to screening; 4. Lack of resources for PPD; and 5. The COVID-19 pandemic. Their experiences reflect the lack of communication between patients and health care providers as well as the absence of resources offered to low-income women. There are limitations to this study, including being limited to the experiences of low-income women living in Dallas, Texas. This study is also limited to the perceptions of low-income women who self-identified to be between the ages of 25 to 44 years and Latinas who completed a demographic survey and a one-on-one interview to share their experiences with PPD symptoms during the COVID-19 pandemic. The study was also narrowed by 10 semi-structured questions that the eight study participants were asked.

Association between sexual violence and multiple high-risk fertility behaviours among women of reproductive age in sub-Saharan Africa

BackgroundIntimate partner violence has adverse outcomes on the sexual and reproductive health of women. In this study, we examined the association between sexual violence and multiple high-risk fertility behaviours (MHRFB) among women in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA).MethodsWe conducted a cross-sectional analysis of data pooled from the most recent Demographic and Health Surveys of 20 countries in SSA. We included countries with most recent datasets conducted from 2015 to 2021 and had data on all variables included in the study. A weighted sample of 88,011 was included in the study. We used a multilevel binary logistic regression to examine the association between sexual violence and MHRFB, controlling for other covariates. The regression results were presented using adjusted odds ratio (aOR) with 95% confidence interval (CI). Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05.ResultsThe overall prevalence of MHRFB was 22.53% (95% CI: 22.26–22.81), which ranged from 9.94% in South Africa to 30.38% in Chad. For sexual violence, the pooled prevalence was 7.02% (95% CI: 6.86–7.19). Burundi (20.58%) and the Gambia (2.88%) reported the highest and lowest proportions, respectively. Women who experienced sexual violence were more likely to engage in MHRFB compared to those who did not experience sexual violence [aOR = 1.11, 95% CI: 1.02, 1.21].ConclusionThere is a positive association between sexual violence and the risk of MHRFB. Our findings underscore a need for sub-Saharan African countries to strengthen their efforts to reduce the occurrence of sexual violence in intimate partner relationships. To augment efforts and accelerate social change, sub-Saharan African countries can introduce pro-poor policies and interventions to improve the wealth status of women. Also, empowering women through the encouragement of attaining higher education would be a useful step in lowering the risk of MHRFB in SSA.

Reproductive justice in the Colombian armed conflict.

This study explores the impacts of armed conflict on women's sexual and reproductive health in Colombia, building on a reproductive justice perspective to analyse original interviews with stakeholders in healthcare, women's rights, and peacebuilding. The analysis reveals that war affects women's sexual and reproductive health in three ways, through violent politicisation, collateral damage, and intersectional dimensions. First, multiple armed actors have used women's health as an instrument in politically motivated strategies to increase their power, assigning political meaning to sexuality and reproduction within the context of war. Second, women's health has also suffered from secondary damage of conflict resulting from a decay in healthcare service provision and an unmet need for healthcare services among those affected by sexual and reproductive violence. Third, marginalised women have been particularly affected by a discriminatory nexus of poverty, ethnicity, and geographic inequality. The paper concludes with a reflection on the opportunities for reproductive justice in Colombia.