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Sexual Health

Sexual Health

Sexual Health publishes contributions on sexual health from the widest perspectives including HIV/AIDS, STIs, issues of sexuality, and reproductive health. Read more about the journalMore

Editors-in-Chief: Jason Ong and Joseph Tucker

Publishing Model: Hybrid. Open Access options available.

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Latest

These articles are the latest published in the journal. Sexual Health is published under a continuous publication model. More information is available on our Continuous Publication page.

Published online 17 March 2025

SH24179Exploring sexual desire and fantasies: a cross-sectional online study on gender differences on Iranian adults

Rezvan Shekarchi 0009-0008-0158-5764 and Filippo Maria Nimbi
 

This study explores the relationship between sexual fantasies, sexual desire and sexual functioning among Iranian adults, focusing on gender differences. The findings show that men report more explicit and diverse fantasies, whereas women tend to have more romantic and emotional fantasy.

SH24179 Abstract  | PDF (342 KB) - $35.00   | SH24179Supplementary Material (244 KB)
Published online 17 March 2025

SH24185Epidemiological trends of chlamydia, gonorrhoea, trichomoniasis, genital herpes and syphilis in India from 1990 to 2019: analysis from the Global Burden of Disease study (GBD 2019)

Ashu Kumari, Kumari Akanksha, Omprokash Dutta, Farah Deeba and Nasir Salam 0000-0001-9133-1304
 

India has a substantial burden of STIs. The incidence rate for chlamydia, trichomoniasis and genital herpes increased, the incidence rate for syphilis declined, whereas the incidence rate for gonococcal infection did not show any substantial change. Most of the disability-adjusted life years and deaths in 2019 were contributed by syphilis.

SH24185 Abstract  | PDF (1.4 MB) - $35.00   | SH24185Supplementary Material (2.5 MB)
Published online 17 March 2025

SH24200HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis re-initiation among men who have sex with men: a multi-center cohort study in China

Yifan Dai 0009-0007-3325-1972, Zhuoheng Yin 0009-0006-7012-5986, Chunyan Li, Chengxin Fan, Heping Zhao, Haojie Huang, Quanmin Li, Songjie Wu, Aniruddha Hazra, Jonathan Lio, Ke Liang, Linghua Li, Renslow Sherer, Joseph D. Tucker 0000-0003-2804-1181, Cheng Wang and Weiming Tang 0000-0002-9026-707X
 

Many men who have sex with men (MSM) stop using PrEP, a medication that prevents HIV, even though they remain at risk. Our study found that MSM are more likely to re-initiate their PrEP prescription if they continue engaging in concurrent sexual partnerships, use drugs, or are influenced by their partners. These insights are crucial for developing strategies that support consistent PrEP use and prevent new HIV infections in key populations.

SH24200 Abstract  | PDF (570 KB) - $35.00 
Published online 06 March 2025

SH24237Assessing and projecting the global impacts of female infertility: a 1990–2040 analysis from the Global Burden of Disease study

Hanjin Wang and Bengui Jiang 0000-0003-0111-1637
 

The projected global burden of female infertility is expected to increase significantly from 2021 to 2040, with notable regional disparities. Central sub-Saharan Africa and south Asia are anticipated to experience higher burdens. Regions with a higher sociodemographic index generally have lower female infertility burdens, with notable trends observed in Europe and Asia.

SH24237 Abstract  |  SH24237 Full Text  | SH24237PDF (1.3 MB)  | SH24237Supplementary Material (775 KB)   Open Access Article

Published online 03 March 2025

SH24171Service delivery of at-home STI testing using self-collected samples: a qualitative investigation of values and preferences among adults in Rakai, Uganda

Yasmin P. Ogale 0000-0002-1882-6535, M. Kathryn Grabowski, Proscovia Nabakka, Herman Mukiibi, Frank Lukabwe, Neema Nakyanjo, Fred Nalugoda, Joseph Kagaayi, Godfrey Kigozi, Charlotte A. Gaydos 0000-0002-1021-3195, Julie A. Denison and Caitlin E. Kennedy
 

At-home self-collection programs for STI testing (SCS/STI testing) can expand STI diagnosis in low-resource settings, but data on client service delivery values and preferences are limited. This study found that clients most valued timely service and the health professionals’ knowledge. When building a framework for a SCS/STI testing program, it is critical to include systems for meeting clients’ needs; these formative data can guide program managers in the development of client-centered SCS/STI testing services in low-resource settings.

SH24171 Abstract  | PDF (271 KB) - $35.00   | SH24171Supplementary Material (468 KB)
Published online 27 February 2025

SH24214Understanding the role of patient communication protocols in sexually transmissible infections point-of-care testing among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in remote communities: a qualitative study

Robert Monaghan, Louise Causer, James Ward, Belinda Hengel 0000-0002-3013-7716, Kirsty Smith, Kelly Andrewartha, Christopher Fairley 0000-0001-9081-1664, Lisa Maher, Donna Mak, Caitlyn White, Jessica Leonard, Rebecca Guy, Lise Lafferty 0000-0002-8533-2957 and on behalf of the TTANGO2 Collaboration
 

This qualitative research sought to understand how healthcare providers communicate sexually transmissible infection testing using molecular point-of-care diagnostics with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in remote communities. Drawing on interviews with 20 trained point-of-care testing operators across seven health clinics, this analysis identifies patient communication strategies that can normalise STI testing by reducing shame and stigma, and that the role of opportunistic testing may be an impetus for patient education opportunities regarding sexual health care. Offering STI POC testing in a culturally safe and competent manner has the potential to increase the sexual healthcare engagement of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples living in remote communities.

SH24214 Abstract  |  SH24214 Full Text  | SH24214PDF (252 KB)   Open Access Article

Published online 24 February 2025

SH24071Determinants of intention to test for sexually transmitted infections among late adolescent women in the United States

Alyssa M. Lederer 0000-0002-9430-0287 and Callie Patterson Perry
 

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are common and consequential among young people in the United States, especially late adolescent women, but STI testing rates are low. This research identified beliefs associated with STI testing, with the primary finding that the Reasoned Action Approach, a prominent health behavior theory, is a useful framework for understanding influential factors. Study results should be integrated into future interventions to improve STI testing among young women in the United States, thereby improving sexual health outcomes.

SH24071 Abstract  | PDF (586 KB) - $35.00 
Published online 24 February 2025

SH24152Australian veteran sexual health: ‘…you are the first person I’ve spoken to about it.’

Kosta Douvos 0009-0002-9850-3804, Louise Bourchier 0000-0003-0617-2690, Meredith J. Temple-Smith and Sue Malta
 

Veterans experience poor sexual health and functioning outcomes due to the physical, psychological and social costs of military service, as well as the transition back to civilian life and its associated obstacles. Although research in other countries explores the sexual health of veterans, there is limited research in the Australian context. Our study found that although Australian veterans experience significant difficulties in the domain of sexual health, this area is not often on the radar of healthcare and research professionals.

SH24152 Abstract  |  SH24152 Full Text  | SH24152PDF (282 KB)   Open Access Article

Published online 17 February 2025

SH24088Enhancing future HIV services through telehealth services: an observational study to explore telehealth adoption and usage for HIV prevention and treatment during the COVID-19 pandemic

Chen Seong Wong, Anwar Hashim, Sejun Park, Nittaya Phanuphak 0000-0002-0036-3165, Rena Janamnuaysook 0000-0002-8054-482X, Edel Buna Simpauco, Timothy Wong, Amanda Rui En Woo 0000-0003-4372-2532, Billy Mo and Kimberly Green
 

Telehealth usage increased in the HIV community in Asia during the COVID-19 pandemic. Telehealth has the potential to bridge healthcare inequity and improve outreach during public health crises. Concerns associated with data privacy, trust in telehealth services and misalignment of actual available services locally with preferred services affected its adoption within the HIV community. Community-based organisations experienced resourcing and organisational challenges, which affected telehealth implementation. There is a need to enhance HIV telehealth services to prepare for future public health crises.

SH24088 Abstract  | PDF (1.4 MB) - $35.00   | SH24088Supplementary Material (1.4 MB)
Published online 13 February 2025

SH24223Substantial underdiagnosis and underreporting: changes in reported HIV and AIDS cases in 31 provinces in China at the beginning of COVID-19

Xinsheng Wu, Zhongwen Wang, Bin Li, Weijie Zhang, Yuanyi Chen, Guozhen Wu, Juan Yang and Huachun Zou 0000-0002-8161-7576
 

China implemented many measures to control COVID-19. This study analyzed the number and trend of reported HIV and AIDS cases from 2017 to 2020. They found that in January 2020, when these measures started in China, there were fewer HIV and AIDS cases reported than counterfactual. They estimated that many cases were not diagnosed or not reported in some provinces. Health departments should improve and maintain their surveillance and reporting systems during pandemics, such as COVID-19.

SH24223 Abstract  | PDF (1.5 MB) - $35.00   | SH24223Supplementary Material (611 KB)
Published online 13 February 2025

SH24156Exploring residents’ and fellows’ confidence in sexually transmitted infection management and confidential care for adolescents

Cameron L. Wynn 0000-0002-0877-8787, Catherine Wong, MinJae Lee, Jasmin A. Tiro and Jenny K. R. Francis
 

In the United States, medical residents and fellows may encounter challenges when counselling adolescents about sexual health. This study explores the association of residents’ and fellows’ demographics, medical training, personal adolescent sexual healthcare experiences, with confidence in STI management and confidential care for adolescents. Findings highlight the pressing need for communication training to address gaps in confidence.

SH24156 Abstract  | PDF (644 KB) - $35.00 
Published online 10 February 2025

SH24111Multiple sexual partners and condomless anal intercourse among men who have sex with men in southern China: investigating the role of receiving HIV serostatus disclosure from partners before sex

Jinli Mo 0009-0005-4881-5051, Weiyi Tian 0009-0001-6482-3394, Min Wang 0000-0002-0285-9869, Yun Zhang, Yinxia Liang, Hongbin Peng, Xia Luo, Haimei Huang, Sumin Tan, Jiawen Zhu, Ping Cen, Guanghua Lan, Hao Wang, Li Jiang and Chuanyi Ning
 

This study explored the impact of HIV serostatus disclosure on multiple sexual partners and condomless anal intercourse among HIV-negative MSM. Regular HIV testing promoted serostatus disclosure, and disclosure of HIV serostatus was associated with fewer sexual partners. However, among MSM with casual partners, disclosure was associated with a higher likelihood of engaging in condomless anal intercourse. These findings highlight the importance of regular HIV testing and disclosure in managing sexual health.

SH24111 Abstract  | PDF (1023 KB) - $35.00 
Published online 06 February 2025

SH24153Sex differences in alcohol and other substance use in sexual contexts among adolescents: an observational study

Helena González-Casals, Albert Espelt 0000-0002-8625-4356, Marina Bosque-Prous, Judit Rogés, Marina Robles-Muñoz, Joan Colom, Jordi Casabona, María José Belza and Cinta Folch
 

There is a co-occurrence between substance use and sexual practices in adolescence, with important health impacts. Girls, sexual minorities, and native-born students are more vulnerable to engaging in this practice. Moreover, substance users in sexual contexts are more likely to engage in risky behaviours, such as having multiple partners, inconsistent condom use, and ineffective contraception, leading to increased risk of STIs and unintended pregnancies. More longitudinal studies are needed to identify their motives, predisposing factors and design public health measures.

SH24153 Abstract  | PDF (488 KB) - $35.00 
Published online 06 February 2025

SH24180Characteristics and associations between sexting and high-risk sexual behaviors among college students in Jiangxi Province, China

Duoqin Huang 0009-0000-5952-7884, Xin Wan, Hong Wang, Jiangqing Chen, Yanan Zheng, Li Li and Xi Gong
 

Our recent study in Jiangxi Province, China, highlights the significant link between sexting and high-risk sexual behaviors among college students, with 12.7% reporting sexting and 11.0% of students reporting high-risk behaviors. The research underscores that students who have engaged in sexting are significantly more likely to partake in risky behaviors, such as unprotected sex, multiple sexual partners, casual sex and commercial sex. This calls for enhanced sexual health education and safety measures to curb these risky behaviors among college students.

SH24180 Abstract  | PDF (243 KB) - $35.00   | SH24180Supplementary Material (199 KB)
Published online 04 February 2025

SH24197A holistic evaluation of sexual health disease investigation: case study of the 2022 Mpox outbreak in Santa Clara County, California

Harit Agroia 0009-0001-1710-6309, Leyla Mousli and Disha Nangia
 

Mpox, a viral zoonotic disease, recently emerged as a growing public health concern in the United States. During the 2022 outbreak, a disease investigation team was established by a local health department as part of its emergency response. This report presents an evaluation of the range of outcomes achieved by this team; a composite score was calculated to determine that the team achieved almost two outcomes for every completed investigation. Health departments may consider similar approaches to conduct program evaluations.

SH24197 Abstract  |  SH24197 Full Text  | SH24197PDF (343 KB)   Open Access Article

Just Accepted

These articles have been peer reviewed and accepted for publication. They are still in production and have not been edited, so may differ from the final published form.

SH24235, Accepted 04 March 2025

A Digital Citizen Science Intervention to Reduce HIV Stigma and Promote HIV Testing: A Randomized Clinical Trial among Adolescents and Young Adults in Kazakhstan

Alissa Davis 0000-0003-2084-9741, Laura Nyblade, Yihang Sun, Olga Balabekova, Sara Landers, Denis Gryazev, Joseph Tucker 0000-0003-2804-1181, Valera Gulyaev, Susan Rosenthal, Karsten Lunze, Weiming Tang 0000-0002-9026-707X, Azamat Kuskulov, Assel Terlikbayeva, Sholpan Primbetova, Mingway Chang, Alfiya Denebayeva, Aikerim Akhmetova, Ainur Absemtova, Sholpan Karzhaubayeva, Sairankul Kassymbekova, Marina Maximova, Zhannat Mussina, Gulnar Bekenova, Zhamilya Nugmanova, Zhanna Kalmatayeva, Ludmila Polyakova, Zhanneta Zhazykbaeva, Vitaliy Vinogradov, Amir Shaikezhanov, Meruyert Darisheva, Bella Orynbetova, Elena Norakidze, Mashirov Kozhahmet, Akbota Tolgenova, Aknur Imadillda, Dariga Satkhozhina, Alikhan Kartamyssov, Zhamilya Kaniyeva, Albina Aleshina, Olzhas Makhan, Aida Muravyova, Adema Rahimzanova, Arman Duisenbayev 0009-0000-0588-0586, Zhanerke Tursynbek, Nurgazy Dias, Malika Beken, Miras Murzakhan, Zhandos Brown, Daniyal Maitekov, Artur Li, Sandizaira Mergen, Dautali Mergenov, Amirali Kuanysh, Anuar Rakhimbekov, Yenlik Baisbay, Alibek Aruzhan, Zhasmina Kozhambet, Denis Grebenchishikov, Dmitriy Bekker, Sultan Kozhamberdiev, Dauren Salykov, Madina Sagimbaeva, Kamila Yussupova and Gaukhar Mergenova
 
SH24235Abstract

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Collections

Collections are a curation of articles relevant to a topical research area

Sexual health among older adults: A multi-disciplinary collection

Older adults (people 60 years and older) are often neglected in sexual health research, programs, and services. This special collection addresses this gap in the literature, drawing on a wide range of perspectives.

Collection Editors
Lianne Gonsalves (World Health Organization)
Dan Wu (Nanjing Medical University)
Eneyi Kpokiri (London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine)
Titilola Gbaja-Biamila (Washington University in St Louis)
Huachun Zou (Fudan University)
Reena Rajasuriar (University Malaya Medical Centre)
Maggie L. Syme (Mass General Brigham)

Last Updated: 21 Nov 2024

Hidden gems in Sexual Health: the use of technology to improve the control of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections

This Collection highlights some recent publications in Sexual Health on using technology to optimise sexual health. By leveraging innovations such as rapid diagnostic tools, mobile health (mHealth), self-testing and artificial-intelligence-powered tools, we can empower individuals to take control of their sexual health, reducing risks and enhancing accessibility.

All papers in this collection are free to read for three months, from 13 September 2024.

Collection Editors
Jason Ong and Joseph Tucker

Last Updated: 13 Sep 2024

Emerging Sexual and Reproductive Health in Australia and New Zealand: Gaps, Challenges and Solutions

We are pleased to present this Collection on emerging topics in sexual and reproductive health in Australia and New Zealand. This collection of research articles underscores the pressing significance of addressing sexual and reproductive health matters, inviting an in-depth examination of challenges, solutions, and innovative approaches.

Collection Editors
Tiffany Phillips, Eric Chow and Jacqueline Coombe

Last Updated: 14 Sep 2023

STIs in MSM - long and the short of it

This Collection includes papers on rising rates of specific STIs in MSM, possible explanations for the rises, ways to improve surveillance and ways to prevent STIs. It also highlights a number of key papers relating to HPV-associated malignancies and potential approaches to reducing these. Fortunately for young MSM, at least Australia’s national childhood HPV vaccination program will prevent virtually all HPV-related malignancies.

Last Updated: 14 Jun 2017

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