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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 26 June 2025

SH24126Engage and adapt: peer-led implementation of HIV navigation in Australia

Timothy Krulic 0000-0002-5174-1920, Graham Brown, Sara Graham and Adam Bourne
 

Alongside partnership, adaptation is one of the enduring themes of the Australian response to HIV. This article presents a case study to examine the factors that influence the effectiveness of peer navigation programs for people living with HIV run by community organisations in partnership with providers of clinical care. Its findings guide the improvement of service and policy systems and similar programs aimed at empowering better treatment outcomes and quality of life for people living with HIV.

SH24126 Abstract  |  SH24126 Full Text  | SH24126PDF (244 KB)   Open Access Article

Published online 26 June 2025

SH25001The relative importance of socio-ecological factors in regard to psychosexual health among adolescent students: based on dominance analysis

Xiuqing Fang 0009-0002-9453-6393, Mengfan Zhang, Mengjie Yang, Wenjing Liu, Linpei Dong, Yawen Ren, Wenguang Wang, Ting Liu and Li Yang
 

Adolescent psychosexual health is a critical, yet often overlooked, aspect of youth development, shaping lifelong well-being and behavior. This study explores the key factors influencing psychosexual health among Chinese vocational students, revealing that peer relationships and parent–adolescent communication play the most significant roles. These findings highlight the need for targeted interventions that strengthen peer and family dynamics, offering a roadmap for educators and policymakers to support healthy sexual development in vocational education settings.

SH25001 Abstract  | PDF (298 KB) - $35.00 
Published online 23 June 2025

SH25004Extending the use period of hormonal long-acting reversible contraceptive devices in Australia: exploring patterns of use in a cohort of users before and after COVID-19 guidance

Tahlee B. Stevenson 0000-0002-6513-4005, Alice R. Rumbold, Kelly Hall, Jenni Ilomaki, Deborah Bateson 0000-0003-1035-7110, Danielle Mazza and Luke E. Grzeskowiak
 

As the COVID-19 pandemic placed pressure on health services and limited accessibility, ‘off-label’ recommendations suggesting extended use periods for long-acting reversible contraceptive (LARC) devices emerged internationally. Despite these recommendations, typical usage patterns were maintained in Australia, with extended use periods observed in less than 10% of LARC users. As these extended use periods have since been made permanent in regulatory documents and clinical guidelines, targeted education for providers and consumers will be required to support uptake and consistent implementation.

SH25004 Abstract  |  SH25004 Full Text  | SH25004PDF (379 KB)   Open Access Article

Published online 19 June 2025

SH25047Exploring syphilis activity for personalized treatment strategies in latent syphilis: a 2-year cohort study

Jia-Wen Xie, Ya-Wen Zheng, Shu-Hao Fan, Yin-Feng Guo, Ying Zheng, Yu Lin, Man-Li Tong and Li-Rong Lin 0000-0003-4503-9382
 

Latent syphilis, a hidden infection with no symptoms, has surged globally, yet current treatments often rely on uncertain disease staging. This study reveals that a simple antibody test (nontreponemal immunoglobulin M) can identify active infections, showing patients with positive immunoglobulin M take longer to recover and need tailored therapies. By personalizing treatment based on antibody levels, doctors can reduce unnecessary antibiotic use, especially in vulnerable groups, such as older adults, improving care and easing healthcare burdens.

SH25047 Abstract  |  SH25047 Full Text  | SH25047PDF (639 KB)  | SH25047Supplementary Material (187 KB)   Open Access Article

Published online 17 June 2025

SH24123Recruiting participants via social media for sexual and reproductive health research

Jacqueline Coombe 0000-0002-9520-5724, Helen Bittleston 0000-0002-5768-3223, Teralynn Ludwick 0000-0003-4160-7354, Megan S. C. Lim 0000-0003-3136-6761, Ethan T. Cardwell, Linde Stewart 0000-0003-0642-2610, Louise Bourchier 0000-0003-0617-2690, Amelia Wardley 0000-0002-9203-0332, Jane L. Goller 0000-0001-5580-360X, Cassandra Caddy and Jane S. Hocking 0000-0001-9329-8501
 

Social media is increasingly being used to recruit participants to social research. Here, we provide a practical guide to using social media to recruit for sexual and reproductive health research, and include examples throughout from our own studies. We outline our triumphs and pitfalls in using this recruitment strategy, the challenges we have faced and the lessons we have learnt.

SH24123 Abstract  |  SH24123 Full Text  | SH24123PDF (1.3 MB)   Open Access Article

Published online 17 June 2025

SH24230Factors associated with time to presentation to Sydney Sexual Health Centre, Australia, after STI contact notification

K. Hall 0000-0001-5889-1692, K. Hall 0000-0001-5889-1692, H. Lu 0009-0005-1465-363X, H. Lu 0009-0005-1465-363X, A. Wong 0000-0003-4043-1895, A. Wong 0000-0003-4043-1895, A. McNulty 0000-0003-3174-1242, A. McNulty 0000-0003-3174-1242, C. Bourne 0000-0001-7391-3941 and C. Bourne 0000-0001-7391-3941
 

When diagnosed with an STI, people are advised on partner notification (PN); however, little is known about those who receive this important information. Our study found that people who received spoken PN had slower presentation times for STI testing compared with those who received electronic PN. Electronic PN was the most popular method in the study. Wider use of electronic PN could improve STI management, and further research into its effectiveness is required.

SH24230 Abstract  | PDF (561 KB) - $35.00 
Published online 03 June 2025

SH25003Attitudes towards and use of point-of-care tests for STIs: results from a survey of STI conference attendees in 2023

Yu-Hsiang Hsieh, Yukari C. Manabe, Charlotte A. Gaydos 0000-0002-1021-3195, Matthew M. Hamill 0000-0002-1277-819X, Haneefa Saleem, Golsa M. Yazdy 0000-0002-5607-7651, Anne M. Rompalo and Susan Tuddenham
 

Newer point-of-care tests for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) have become increasingly available since the COVID-19 pandemic. Little is known regarding the use of these tests in clinical practice as well as the potential challenges of integrating them into care. Survey data from individuals attending an international STI conference is presented, highlighting practice trends and barriers to implementation.

SH25003 Abstract  | PDF (388 KB) - $35.00   | SH25003Supplementary Material (265 KB)
Published online 02 June 2025

SH24188A pilot study, auditing digital communication to conduct sexual and reproductive health service outreach to Chinese- and Thai-speaking sex workers in Sydney

Katherine Coote 0000-0002-8990-7295, Maggie Ma, Birdie Thirapat, Limin Mao 0000-0003-0995-5789 and Rick Varma 0000-0002-0402-0506
 

It is important to engage culturally and linguistically diverse sex industry workers with sexual health care. A large sexual health service has piloted the implementation of WeChat and LINE digital platforms to enhance outreach to Thai- and Chinese-speaking sex industry workers operating in inner-city Sydney. Results indicated that the platforms are both effective in reaching new clients and are utilised by existing sex industry worker clients of the sexual health service for service navigation and booking appointments.

SH24188 Abstract  | PDF (295 KB) - $35.00 
Published online 29 May 2025

SH25017Position statement on doxycycline post-exposure prophylaxis for the prevention of bacterial sexually transmissible infections in Aotearoa New Zealand: the New Zealand Sexual Health Society

Julia Scott 0009-0008-6347-2941, Massimo Giola 0009-0007-9327-3671 and Jeannie Oliphant
 

This position statement from the New Zealand Sexual Health Society outlines the background, process and recommendations of a cross-sectoral meeting on doxycycline prophylaxis to prevent bacterial STIs. The New Zealand Sexual Health Society recommends that this prevention strategy be considered as part of a comprehensive STI prevention approach, and this statement provides guidance for clinicians in Aotearoa New Zealand on when to consider and how to prescribe doxycycline prophylaxis. STI diagnostic considerations, and monitoring and surveillance are discussed.

SH25017 Abstract  |  SH25017 Full Text  | SH25017PDF (197 KB)

Published online 27 May 2025

SH24159Turkish adaptation, validity and reliability study of the sexual and reproductive empowerment scale for adolescents and young adults

Sila Gül 0000-0002-5375-4864 and Nuriye Büyükkayaci Duman
 

Studies have shown that adolescents and young adults in Turkey face various difficulties in sexual and reproductive health. It has been observed that there is a need for a scale to assess the sexual and reproductive health empowerment of adolescents and young adults in Turkey. This study found that the Sexual and Reproductive Health Empowerment Scale for Adolescents and Young Adults is a valid and highly reliable instrument for the Turkish population.

SH24159 Abstract  | PDF (270 KB) - $35.00 
Published online 27 May 2025

SH24210Financial sustainability of HIV services for key populations in four countries in Asia: a mixed-methods study

James Tapa 0009-0006-7619-7243, Matthew Kusen, Felicity Young, Mike Merrigan and Jason J. Ong 0000-0001-5784-7403
 

Middle-income countries that are transitioning away from external donor funding for HIV services targetting key populations need to have policies in place and domestic resources allocated to continue providing the services sustainably without disruption. We analyzed and presented the findings from the surveys and key informant interviews of diverse stakeholders to understand barriers to domestic funding for key population–led HIV programming in four selected countries (Bhutan, Mongolia, the Philippines, Sri Lanka) in Asia that are scheduled for transition.

SH24210 Abstract  |  SH24210 Full Text  | SH24210PDF (243 KB)  | SH24210Supplementary Material (232 KB)   Open Access Article

Published online 26 May 2025

SH24093Barriers and facilitators to accessing sexual health services among middle-aged and older adults in the UK, including those with disabilities: a qualitative analysis

Charlotte Letley, Isabella Kritzer, Yoshiko Sakuma, Hayley Conyers, Sophia Randazzo, Jason J. Ong 0000-0001-5784-7403, Suzanne Day, Dan Wu 0000-0003-0415-5467, Fern Terris-Prestholt 0000-0003-1693-5196, Joseph D. Tucker 0000-0003-2804-1181 and Eneyi E. Kpokiri 0000-0003-1180-1439
 

Despite evidence that many middle-aged and older adults in the UK remain sexually active, their access to and uptake of sexual health services has been underestimated. Our exploration of their lived experiences revealed physical barriers and the stigma around their sexual health and of being perceived as asexual by health professionals. To improve service provision and access, a multi-faceted approach is needed, including enhanced training for healthcare providers, further research, and supportive policies.

This article belongs to the collection: Sexual health among older adults: A multi-disciplinary collection.

SH24093 Abstract  |  SH24093 Full Text  | SH24093PDF (1 MB)  | SH24093Supplementary Material (1.5 MB)   Open Access Article

Published online 26 May 2025

SH24247Preferences and willingness to use pre-exposure prophylaxis for HIV among men who have sex with men in mainland China and Hong Kong

Jiajun Sun 0000-0001-5529-6660, Jason J. Ong 0000-0001-5784-7403, Heather-Marie Schmidt 0000-0002-2629-6407, Curtis Chan 0000-0002-9581-1011, Benjamin R. Bavinton 0000-0001-5834-8278, Kimberly Elizabeth Green 0000-0002-0848-8480, Nittaya Phanuphak 0000-0002-0036-3165, Midnight Poonkasetwattana, Nicky Suwandi, Doug Fraser, Weiming Tang 0000-0002-9026-707X, Michael Cassell, Hua Boonyapisomparn, Edmond Pui Hang Choi 0000-0001-9062-3540, Lei Zhang 0000-0003-2343-084X and Warittha Tieosapjaroen
 

PrEP uptake remains low among MSM in mainland China and Hong Kong. This study found that oral PrEP was most preferred, with MSM in mainland China more likely to use on-demand PrEP, whereas MSM in Hong Kong were more likely to use monthly oral PrEP. These findings highlight the need for specific strategies to improve PrEP uptake and address local social and behavioural influences on HIV prevention.

This article belongs to the collection: Awareness, Preferenes, and the Use of PrEP in Asia Among Men Who Have Sex With Men Findings from the PrEP APPEAL Study.

SH24247 Abstract  |  SH24247 Full Text  | SH24247PDF (3.3 MB)  | SH24247Supplementary Material (526 KB)   Open Access Article

Published online 26 May 2025

SH24136Awareness and willingness toward doxycycline post-exposure prophylaxis use for bacterial sexually transmitted infections among men who have sex with men

Yi-Ting Chen 0009-0001-6734-1593, Kuan-Yin Lin, Hsin-Yun Sun, Yu-Shan Huang, Wang-Da Liu, Yu-Chung Chuang, Po-Hsien Kuo, Sung-Hsi Huang, Kai-Hsiang Chen, Aristine Cheng, Wang-Huei Sheng, Szu-Min Hsieh, Sung-Ching Pan, Un-In Wu, Szu-Ting Huang, Tzong-Yow Wu, Wen-Chun Liu, Pei-Ying Wu, Yu-Zhen Luo, Hsi-Yen Chang, Ling-Ya Chen 0000-0001-8271-6595, An-Ting Peng, Pei-Yu Wang, Guei-Chi Li and Chien-Ching Hung 0000-0001-7345-0836
 

Using doxycycline after exposure (doxycycline post-exposure prophylaxis) can prevent men who have sex with men from contracting STIs. A study in Taiwan found that these men were open to using doxycycline post-exposure prophylaxis, especially when they felt that they might be at risk of STIs. It is important to understand their readiness to identify behaviors that increase the chances of contracting or transmitting STIs, and to offer education and support to help them use doxycycline post-exposure prophylaxis effectively.

SH24136 Abstract  |  SH24136 Full Text  | SH24136PDF (905 KB)  | SH24136Supplementary Material (703 KB)   Open Access Article

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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.

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  8. Awareness and willingness toward doxycycline post-exposure prophylaxis use for bacterial sexually transmitted infections among men who have sex with men

    Sexual Health 22 (3)
    Yi-Ting Chen 0009-0001-6734-1593, Kuan-Yin Lin, Hsin-Yun Sun, Yu-Shan Huang, Wang-Da Liu, Yu-Chung Chuang, Po-Hsien Kuo, Sung-Hsi Huang, Kai-Hsiang Chen, Aristine Cheng, Wang-Huei Sheng, Szu-Min Hsieh, Sung-Ching Pan, Un-In Wu, Szu-Ting Huang, Tzong-Yow Wu, Wen-Chun Liu, Pei-Ying Wu, Yu-Zhen Luo, Hsi-Yen Chang, Ling-Ya Chen 0000-0001-8271-6595, An-Ting Peng, Pei-Yu Wang, Guei-Chi Li, Chien-Ching Hung 0000-0001-7345-0836

  11. Strategies to sustain HIV prevention interventions among adolescents and young adults: analysis of data from a crowdsourcing open call in Nigeria

    Sexual Health 22 (3)
    Ujunwa Onyeama 0000-0002-0455-7100, Lauren Fidelak, Weiming Tang 0000-0002-9026-707X, Susan Nkengasong, Titilola Gbaja-Biamila, Lateef Akeem, Adesola Zaidat Musa, Folahanmi Tomiwa Akinsolu, Tomilola Musari-Martins 0000-0001-9961-1300, Jane Okwuzu, Aishat Adedoyin Koledowo, Suzanne Day, Temitope Ojo, Olufunto A. Olusanya, Kadija M. Tahlil, Donaldson F. Conserve, Oluwaseun Adebayo Bamodu, Nora E. Rosenberg, Ucheoma Nwaozuru, Chisom Obiezu-Umeh, Collins Airhihenbuwa, Oliver Ezechi, Juliet Iwelunmor, Joseph D. Tucker 0000-0003-2804-1181

Collections

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

Awareness, Preferences, and Use of PrEP in Asia Among Men Who Have Sex With Men and Transgender Women: Findings from the PrEP APPEAL Study

This collection of articles utilises data from the PrEP APPEAL Study, a cross-sectional survey of men who have sex with men and transgender women across 15 countries and territories throughout Asia. These include articles that demonstrate local needs for PrEP service delivery for specific countries and contemporary issues that transcend borders throughout Asia.

Collection Editors
Benjamin Bavinton (Kirby Institute)
Curtis Chan (Kirby Institute)
Heather-Marie Schmidt (Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS ((UNAIDS)
Nittaya Phanuphak (Institute of HIV Research and Innovation)
Kim Green (PATH)

Last Updated: 03 Jun 2025

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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