Although nulliparous young people in our study found the intrauterine device (IUD) insertion very painful, they reported the procedure as acceptable. Higher acceptability was associated with reports of sufficient pain relief, that the insertion went as expected, and that the benefits of the IUD outweighed the discomfort.

The high cost of HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and the limited number of providers present challenges for expanding PrEP access in Japan. This study explored PrEP use behaviors and preferences among adult MSM in Japan using an online cross-sectional survey that used a discrete choice experiment to assess people’s preferences by asking them to choose between different service options. Results indicated strong sensitivity to financial costs and side effects, with participants preferring less intrusive delivery methods (such as injections or implants) and community-led services.

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

The syphilis outbreak in regional Australia disproportionately impacts Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, highlighting a critical need for effective screening solutions. An opt-out syphilis screening program was developed in a regional emergency department and identified a 0.68% prevalence among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples aged 15–40 years. The findings from this audit suggest valuable improvements for the program and offer a model for hospitals in similar outbreak regions.

Understanding chlamydia trends is essential to improve control in the highest-risk age groups. Our analysis reveals a notable increase in infections among those aged 20–24 years in Queensland between 2000 and 2019, contrasting with a decline among those aged 15–19 years since 2010. These findings emphasise the need for ongoing research to understand these trends and guide strategies for combating chlamydia in young populations.

Syphilis cases are increasing in Australia, particularly among men who have sex with men, but adherence to the current multi-dose treatment is often low. This study found that most men who have sex with men preferred a single high-dose benzathine benzylpenicillin G injection over the standard three-dose regimen. These findings support the development of a simpler, one-dose treatment, which could improve adherence and help control the spread of syphilis more effectively.

Open and supportive communication between parents and children about sexuality is vital for children’s well-being, yet many families struggle to have these important conversations. In our review of 59 studies, we found that parents face major barriers, such as discomfort, lack of knowledge, cultural norms and fear of judgment, that limit effective sexuality education at home. Tackling these barriers through culturally sensitive support and inclusive resources is essential for improving sexual health outcomes for all children and youth, especially those from marginalized communities.