Search Results (96)

This study examines the perceptions and experiences of Indigenous Kankuamo women in northern Colombia regarding their sexual and reproductive rights (SRR), exploring how cultural traditions and public policies shape their exercise. The main objective was to understand the tensions between ancestral values, community leadership, and internationally recognized rights. A mixed-methods approach (qualitative–quantitative) was employed, based on semi-structured interviews conducted with 30 women. The instrument included closed Likert-type questions and open-ended items addressing perceptions, cultural practices, access to health services, and government programs. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Spearman correlations, and content analysis through thematic development. The findings revealed a strong correlation between trust in health services, accessibility, cultural compatibility, and the frequency of adolescent pregnancies. Divided perceptions regarding the role of community leaders were identified, along with a recurring demand for education and awareness-raising on sexuality and rights. Participants also noted limitations in state programs, mainly due to their limited cultural relevance. Kankuamo women face ongoing tensions between cultural preservation and sexual autonomy. Strengthening education, inclusive leadership, and policies with an ethnic and gender perspective is recommended to ensure the full exercise of their SRR. Full article

Background/Objectives: Obstetric violence (OV) is a violation of women’s human rights during reproductive processes. Despite being the subject of debate among healthcare professionals, increasingly recognized, and legislated against in some countries, OV continues to be reproduced and normalized during training. The objective of this study was to determine the perception of OV among health sciences students and gynaecology and obstetrics residents. Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted with 304 health sciences students and gynaecology and obstetrics residents in Spain. An online questionnaire was distributed that gathered information on sociodemographic variables and clinical experience and included the validated PercOV-S instrument. Descriptive and bivariate analyses were performed to explore associations between variables. Results: The overall perception of OV was moderately high (mean 3.93/5), with higher scores for visible or protocolized forms (4.27/5) than for invisible or subtle forms (2.87/5). Being a woman, being a midwifery resident, or having had personal experiences with pregnancy or childbirth increased sensitivity to OV. Clinical exposure in obstetrics and gynaecology services increased both awareness and the likelihood of witnessing OV. Twenty-eight percent of students reported having observed OV, and twenty percent reported emotional distress, even considering dropping out. Conclusions: Despite the recognition of OV, repeated exposure during training can promote its normalization. The results of this study highlight the need for safe, reflective training environments that mainstream feminist perspectives, sexual rights, and the detection of subtle forms of OV. Full article

Objective: This retrospective cohort study aimed to identify independent clinical predictors specifically associated with the laterality of ovarian torsion, rather than examining potential associations with patient age or serum hormonal profiles. The analysis sought to improve diagnostic accuracy and preoperative risk stratification in ovarian torsion, a gynecologic emergency where fertility preservation is a priority. Materials and Methods: Data from 64 patients with surgically confirmed ovarian torsion between January 2018 and June 2025 were retrospectively reviewed at Harran University Faculty of Medicine. Demographic, clinical, ultrasonographic, and hormonal data were collected. Hormonal assays were performed using electrochemiluminescence immunoassays (Roche Diagnostics). Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were employed to identify factors independently associated with torsion laterality. Results: The median age of the 64 patients included in the study was 22 years (IQR: 20–33). Right ovarian torsion was detected in 65.6% of the cases. In the final multivariate logistic regression model, nulliparity (VIRGO) (OR: 0.22; 95% CI: 0.07–0.75; p = 0.015) and the presence of a cyst (OR: 0.10; 95% CI: 0.02–0.53; p = 0.007) were found to be independent and significant predictors of torsion laterality. Both variables demonstrated an effect that reduced the probability of left ovarian torsion. No significant association was found between patient age, parity, other clinical features, and hormonal profiles (progesterone, E2, FSH, LH). The main reason for the lack of backing for the hormonal hypothesis was that hormone measurements in 95.3% of the patients were conducted during the follicular phase, a time at which progesterone and estrogen levels are typically low compared to the luteal phase. Conclusions: This study demonstrates that, in addition to the anatomical predisposition for right ovarian torsion, nulliparity (VIRGO) and cyst presence are independent clinical indicators of ovarian torsion laterality. The absence of these features (VIRGO and cyst presence) increases the risk of right-sided torsion. The findings offer valuable information to enhance the index of clinical suspicion in the differential diagnosis of patients presenting with ovarian torsion symptoms. The importance of prompt detorsion and a conservative surgical approach to preserve ovarian viability and secure long-term reproductive health is emphasized. Full article

International adoptees share the experience of unwanted separations as well as exposure to racism. Previous research has a general focus on adoptees’ infancy, childhood, and adolescence rather than adoptees in adulthood, which makes their own contributions and voice in research insufficient. The purpose of this study is to address the gap in research around sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHRs) for adoptees in adulthood. By interviewing 35 international adoptees in Sweden and with the use of semi-structured interviews, the connection between Sexual Health and being adopted was explored. Anchored in a decolonial approach, this study draws on Hooks’ Critical Race Theory and Simon and Gagnon’s script theory when analysing the informants’ answers. Findings show that adoptees’ sexual health is partly shaped by structural racism, internalised norms, and the tension between expectations and adoption narratives. The knowledge gained from this study is expected to be of importance to people in the care sector as well as people working with adoptees because of its importance in understanding and exploring the lived experience of adoptees. Although the study is conducted in a Swedish context, it is relevant in a wider environment as it contributes to how colonial and historical contexts may inform and continue to impact adult adoptees’ sexual health, reflecting the complex interplay between societal expectations, personal identity, and sexual and reproductive health and rights. Full article

In recent years, the sexual and reproductive health of adolescents and young adults (ages 10–24) in Africa has improved through national and international initiatives. However, major challenges remain in enabling young people to exercise their sexual and reproductive health rights (SRHRs), especially in Côte d’Ivoire. This study aimed to explore the perspectives of stakeholders on the freedom of choice of adolescents and young adults with regard to SRHRs in Haut-Sassandra, Côte d’Ivoire. We conducted this qualitative descriptive study between September and October 2023. Participants were selected using a purposive sampling method. Overall, 137 stakeholders participated in the study: 57 teachers and administrators, 17 community leaders, and 63 parents. Data were collected through interviews and focus groups, using an interview guide. Through a deductive thematic approach, we identified three forms of freedom of choice: conditional, absent, and absolute. The average age of the study participants was 46.1 years. The findings reveal that several factors influence the freedom of choice among adolescents and young adults regarding their SRHRs. These include age, gender, parental involvement, prior education, autonomy, and perceived maturity. Limited freedom was commonly associated with younger age (10–18 years), perceived immaturity, and a lack of autonomy. In contrast, greater freedom was linked to older age (18–24 years) and higher levels of perceived maturity. Stakeholders’ perspectives were shaped by cultural and religious norms, a protective attitude toward youth, and a sense of disengagement from adolescent concerns. This study underscores the importance of interventions aimed at increasing stakeholders’ knowledge and awareness of adolescents’ sexual and reproductive rights. Full article

Adolescent sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) challenges, including gender inequality, child marriage, female genital mutilation/cutting and sexual and gender-based violence remain pervasive globally, particularly in Ethiopia. The Power to You(th) programme was designed to address these issues by centering youth voices and fostering transformative community change. This evaluation applied Outcome Harvesting, drawing on mixed quantitative and qualitative data, and employed a participatory approach that engages youth and stakeholders in identifying and verifying programme outcomes between 2021 and 2023. The findings revealed substantial improvements in youth participation in decision-making platforms, advocacy capacity, and awareness of SRH rights. Community attitudes shifted positively, particularly among religious and traditional leaders, who increasingly advocate against harmful practices. Youth-led networks emerged as powerful agents of change, contributing to policy shifts such as increased youth representation in health governance bodies. The evaluation also captured unexpected yet influential changes in community dynamics and institutional responsiveness. These findings highlight the value of participatory approaches in capturing complex social transformations and underscore the role of youth as active agents in reshaping SRHR outcomes. Outcome Harvesting proved effective in documenting both intended and emergent changes, offering valuable insights for scaling inclusive, youth-driven interventions. Full article

Sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHRs) remain a sensitive issue in Indonesia due to entrenched structural, cultural, and social barriers, particularly affecting adolescents, women, and minority groups. In response, the Indonesian Planned Parenthood Association of Yogyakarta Special Region (PKBI DIY) actively promotes SRHR access through value-based, community-centred communication strategies. This study explores how PKBI DIY applies strategic communication to strengthen SRHR advocacy by employing collaborative and participatory methods. Using a qualitative case study approach, researchers conducted in-depth interviews with 11 key informants. Thematic analysis identified three core strategies. First, PKBI DIY fosters inclusive and non-discriminatory communication through educational outreach that challenges stigma and engages diverse audiences. Second, it adopts value-driven, community-focused communication practices that reflect its organisational ethos and build public trust. Third, it practices reflective and collaborative communication with government bodies, civil society, and the media to reinforce advocacy and ensure sustainable outcomes. PKBI DIY illustrates that NGO communication transcends message delivery by embodying advocacy values, affirming organisational identity, and supporting long-term impact. The findings contribute to the broader discourse on value-based strategic communication in human rights work and provide practical guidance for NGOs aiming to implement ethical and socially impactful communication models in SRHR. Full article

Background: Sexual and reproductive health promotion is a political and social process that involves not only individual actions but also strategies to change social, environmental and economic factors. It is necessary to know the characteristics of effective interventions in order to design new evidence-based programmes. However, programmes need to follow a holistic approach, hence the importance of Comprehensive Sexuality Education. Methods: An extensive bibliographic search was carried out. Twenty systematic reviews between 2015 and 2025 were selected following PRISMA 2020. Results: This review shows that interventions to promote SRH are effective and have significant results in increasing SRH knowledge, attitudes and skills, the competencies of professionals and improving access to SRH services. It has been possible to extract that it is necessary to promote SRH with the inclusion of young people, the adaptation of interventions according to the needs of each person, the coordination between different areas, the application of the intersectional and gender perspective, the application of a rights-based approach, the use of comprehensive and inclusive education models, the training of professionals and the carrying out of evaluations to disseminate the results. Furthermore, there are shortcomings in the evidence, such as the lack of an intersectional perspective, the lack of inclusion of certain groups and the lack of rigorous evaluations following quality standards. Conclusion: Programmes based on Comprehensive Sexuality Education are effective and have certain common characteristics. Full article

Background: Repeat induced abortion (defined as ≥two lifetime procedures) is becoming more common worldwide, yet its independent influence on women’s psychological health remains contested, particularly in settings where access to modern contraception is restricted. Objectives: This review sought to quantify the burden of depression, anxiety, stress, and generic quality of life (QoL) among women with repeat abortions and to determine how barriers to contraceptive access alter those outcomes. Methods: Following the preregistered PRISMA-2020 protocol, PubMed, Embase and Scopus were searched from inception to 31 June 2025. Results: Eight eligible studies comprising approximately 262,000 participants (individual sample sizes up to 79,609) revealed wide variation in psychological morbidity. Prevalence of clinically significant symptoms ranged from 5.5% to 24.8% for depression, 8.3% to 31.2% for anxiety, and 18.8% to 27% for perceived stress; frequent mental distress affected 12.3% of women in neutral policy environments but rose to 21.9% under highly restrictive abortion legislation. Having three or more abortions, compared with none or one, increased the odds of depressive symptoms by roughly one-third (pooled OR ≈ 1.37, 95% CI 1.13–1.67). Contextual factors exerted comparable or stronger effects: abortions sought for socioeconomic reasons elevated depression odds by 34%, unwanted disclosure of the abortion episode increased depressive scores by 0.62 standard deviations, and low partner support raised them by 0.67 SD. At the structural level, every standard deviation improvement in a state’s reproductive rights index reduced frequent mental distress odds by 5%, whereas enactment of a near-total legal ban produced an absolute increase of 6.8 percentage points. QoL outcomes were less frequently reported; where measured, denied or heavily delayed abortions were associated with a 0.41-unit decrement on a seven-point life satisfaction scale. Conclusions: Psychological morbidity after abortion clusters where legal hostility, financial hardship, or interpersonal coercion constrain contraceptive autonomy while, in comparison, the mere number of procedures is a weaker predictor. Interventions that integrate stigma-free mental health support with confidential, affordable, and rights-based contraception are essential to protect well-being in women who experience repeat abortions. Full article

Sexual assault is a global public health and human rights concern, with serious physical, psychological and reproductive consequences for survivors. Among these, sexually transmitted infections are particularly relevant due to their frequently asymptomatic nature and potential for long-term complications. The detection of sexually transmitted infections in forensic settings is crucial for clinical management of victims and for evidentiary support in forensic sexual crimes investigations. This study aimed to evaluate the applicability of real-time polymerase chain reaction for detecting Chlamydia trachomatis, Trichomonas vaginalis, Neisseria gonorrhoeae, and Treponema pallidum in biological samples collected from victims of sexual assault and stored under routine forensic conditions, in some cases, for up to 18 years. A total of 231 swabs from 116 individuals collected between 2004 and 2017 were analysed using real-time PCR with pathogen-specific primers and fluorescent probes. The analysis revealed 13 positive samples of T. vaginalis (5.6%) and 11 of C. trachomatis (4.8%). No positive results were obtained for N. gonorrhoeae or T. pallidum. These findings demonstrate the usefulness of real-time polymerase chain reaction for detecting sexually transmitted infections in long-term preserved forensic samples. Moreover, the ability to identify pathogen DNA in archived samples highlights the potential role of molecular diagnostics in the retrospective investigation of sexual crimes, including cold cases. It underscores the value of molecular methods as a complementary tool in forensic proceedings and survivor care. Full article

In Chile, lesbian-parent families have faced legal and social advancements as well as challenges, generating new dynamics through assisted reproduction. The reproductive justice framework allows for an analysis of the inequities and injustices experienced by LGBTIQA+ people in relation to their reproductive rights. Objective: To analyze the narratives of lesbian-parent families who have accessed parenthood through assisted reproduction techniques within the Chilean healthcare system, identifying barriers and facilitators in the process, as well as possible instances of discrimination. Methodology: This research adopted a qualitative approach with a descriptive scope and was based on a constructivist paradigm, utilizing a narrative design and analysis. Four lesbian-parent families participated, selected through purposive or convenience sampling. Results: The findings revealed that the main barriers were related to health insurance coverage and social and geographical factors. Among the key facilitators were support networks, educational level, and healthcare professionals’ guidance. Discussion: The study highlighted the presence of inequalities affecting the exercise of parenthood and the right to form a family, shaped by institutional and social barriers from a reproductive justice framework. Conclusions: The study underscores the need to advance inclusive public policies and systemic changes that recognize and protect family diversity in Chile. Furthermore, it highlights the role of narratives as a tool to make visible and challenge the inequalities surrounding lesbian parenthood. Full article

Artisanal fisheries in southern Chile rely heavily on the Patagonian red octopus (Enteroctopus megalocyathus) as a valuable resource, contributing significantly to local economies. This octopus species accounts for 25–40% of Chilean octopus landings. It is a merobenthic species, characterized by a semelparous life cycle and a long brooding period, and it is distributed along the Pacific and Atlantic coasts of the southern tip of South America, inhabiting holes and crevices in rocky substrates. However, this fishery faces critical challenges to both its ecological sustainability and the food safety of octopus products. The primary fishing method, using hooks, poses a risk to reproductive capacity as it can capture brooding females. Food safety concerns arise from microbial contamination during pre- and post-harvest handling, bioaccumulation of toxins from algal blooms, and the presence of heavy metals in the marine environment. While evisceration effectively reduces the risk of consuming toxins and heavy metals, inadequate hygiene practices and insufficient ice usage throughout the production chain represent significant food safety risks. Chilean fishing Law No. 18892/1989 defines artisanal fishing and establishes territorial use rights in fisheries (TURFs) to promote sustainable extraction of benthic resources. Integrating training programs on post-harvest handling, hygiene practices, and food safety measures into the TURFs framework, along with targeted investments in infrastructure and technical assistance, is crucial to ensure the long-term sustainability of the E. megalocyathus fishery, protect consumer health, and maintain the economic viability and environmental sustainability of this vital resource for local communities. Full article

Objective: This study examines YouTube comments following the overturn of Roe v. Wade, investigating how perceptions of health implications differ based on commenters’ gender and abortion stance. Methods: Using Netlytic, 25,730 comments were extracted from YouTube videos discussing the overturn of Roe v. Wade, half of which featured physicians discussing public health implications. Manual coding of 21% of the comments identified discussions on abortion stance and medical implications, while Gender API approximated the commenters’ gender. A term co-occurrence network was generated with VOSviewer to visualize key terms and their interrelations. Custom overlays explored patterns related to gender, abortion views, and medical implications, and comparisons within these overlays intersected with the medical implications overlay to illustrate contextual differences across demographics. Results: Four clusters emerged in the network: Constitutional Law, addressing the U.S. Constitution’s interpretation and legal impacts; Reproductive Rights and Responsibility, discussing alternatives to abortion and access; Human Development, exploring the intersection of abortion laws and individual beliefs; and Religious Beliefs, linking abortion laws to faith. Prochoice users focused on medical and socioeconomic impacts on women, whereas prolife users emphasized the prevention of unwanted pregnancies and moral considerations. Gender analysis revealed males centered on constitutional issues, while females highlighted medical and personal effects. Conclusion: The findings underscore that monitoring YouTube discourse offers valuable insights into public responses to shifts in health policy. Full article

Background/Objectives: Currently, the type of population reproduction in China has changed to “low birth, low death, low growth”. Additionally, as the number of single people has increased and the number of women of childbearing age has decreased, the growth of the total population was bound to show a negative trend. Therefore, this study aimed to understand what factors influence fertility intentions from the perspective of single, unmarried women. Methods: We designed our own online questionnaire and collected information on fertility intentions from single, unmarried women of childbearing age (18–49 years). A total of 741 questionnaires were collected, with a valid response rate of 92.6%, and the Theory of Planned Behavior model was integrated into the questionnaire survey. Statistical analysis was performed via SPSS 24.0, and AMOS 24.0 software’s analysis of variance was used to determine whether there were differences in attitudes towards fertility intentions among respondents. Structural equation models were constructed via AMOS software for validation factor analysis and path analysis. Results: There was a significant difference (p < 0.05) in “monthly income”, “net family income”, “health status”, and “only-child status”. Structural equation modelling revealed that fertility attitudes (β₁ = 0.301, p < 0.05), subjective norms (β₂ = 0.295, p < 0.05), and perceived behavioural control (β₃ = 0.146, p < 0.05) positively influence fertility intentions. Conclusions: The fertility intentions of single, unmarried women of childbearing age in China are influenced by many factors. Therefore, society should pay more attention to the rights and interests of single, unmarried women and provide a better social environment for childbearing; in addition, it is possible to appropriately relax the fertility policy of single births to improve the low fertility rate in China. Full article

Adolescent pregnancy remains a global issue, demanding comprehensive, long-term solutions. Despite declining rates, early pregnancy leads to severe physical and mental health risks along with increased mortality. Therefore, adolescent pregnancy requires urgent global action. This literature review evaluates pregnant adolescents’ psychological health issues, explores their needs, and investigates interdisciplinary approaches to enhance mental and physical health support. Studies show that adolescent pregnancy poses significant mental health risks and is associated with high rates of depression, suicidal ideation, low self-esteem, substance use, and anxiety. Co-occurring hardships further worsen psychological well-being. Found data indicated that the main needs of pregnant adolescents were adequate sexual and reproductive health; legal rights; high-quality, accessible healthcare; and socioeconomic support. The included references revealed several interventions and recommendations for supporting pregnant adolescents while highlighting challenges in the current framework. Pregnant adolescents face diverse gaps in current support systems. Further research is needed addressing social services, reproductive health consultations, and mental health support. Greater emphasis on multidisciplinary approaches and examples of effective support strategies is crucial to creating a nurturing environment and securing the well-being of pregnant adolescents. Full article