Articles tagged with Birth Control
The Mexico City Policy is associated with a 40% increase in abortions and a decrease in modern contraceptive use among women in sub-Saharan Africa. The policy's restriction on funding to abortion-giving organizations likely contributed to the rise in abortions, as it reduced access to modern contraception.
A randomised trial of over 7,800 African women found that a type of contraceptive injection (DMPA-IM), copper IUD, and levonorgestrel implant posed no substantially increased risk of HIV acquisition. The study suggests continued access to these highly effective contraceptives alongside high-quality HIV prevention services.
A new study shows women in eight sub-Saharan African countries gaining access to and using modern contraception at a faster rate than projected, with married women the biggest users. The average annual growth rate of change in modern contraceptive prevalence exceeded the 1.4% benchmark set by the 2012 London Summit on Family Planning.
A multidisciplinary team at UC San Diego unraveled the mechanisms controlling cell size through a fundamental process known as 'the adder.' The process relies on balanced synthesis of biological ingredients and a critical threshold to initiate cell division. This discovery sheds light on the origins of precise cellular reproduction.
A large observational study found that oral contraceptives were most protective in young women aged 15-19 years, reducing the risk of reconstructive surgery by 63%. The study suggests that taking oral contraceptives may suppress hormonal surges during the menstrual cycle, leading to a lower rate of injury.
A new study found that the current 'repeal and replace' debate is already affecting women's health by increasing interest in IUDs as a cost-efficient form of reversible birth control. The study used Google Trends data to track searches for IUDs, showing a significant increase following the 2016 presidential election.
The Annovera vaginal ring, approved by the FDA last August, is a self-inserted system that provides contraceptive efficacy for up to 13 cycles (1 year) of use. It has a Pearl index of 2.98, indicating only about three unintended pregnancies per 100 women in a year.
A new male oral contraceptive, 11-beta-MNTDC, has been found to decrease sperm production while preserving libido, according to a phase 1 study. The drug produced hormone responses consistent with effective contraception and had few mild side effects.
Researchers at Georgia Institute of Technology developed a technique for administering contraceptive hormones through special backings on jewelry, allowing for improved user compliance with drug regimens. The technology may also be used to deliver other drugs through the skin.
A CU Anschutz study discovered a genetic component that breaks down contraceptive hormones in some women, potentially leading to pregnancy. The research may lead to the development of more precise medical tools to tailor treatment to individual patients.
A new study by the University of Texas at Austin found that medication abortion use increased to 33% after the FDA label change, despite ongoing restrictions. The study reveals that Texas providers can now offer medication abortion consistent with medical evidence, increasing options for women.
Research found that healthy women using birth control pills are poorer judges of subtle facial expressions than non-users. OCP users were nearly 10% worse on average at recognizing the most enigmatic emotional expressions.
A study found that rates of intrauterine device and implant insertions increased by 21.6% in the 30 days after the 2016 election compared to the same time period in 2015. This increase is attributed to women's concerns about losing contraceptive coverage under the Trump administration.
A study of commercially insured women found an increase in long-acting reversible contraceptive (LARC) method insertions 30 days after the 2016 presidential election. The average adjusted daily LARC insertion rate rose from 13.4 per 100,000 women to 16.3 per 100,000 women during this period.
Researchers have developed a medium-term, reversible form of male contraception using layers of materials to block the vas deferens. The approach involves injecting four layers into the duct, which can be broken down and reformed by heat, allowing for temporary sterilization.
A new long-acting contraceptive designed for self-administration via microneedle patch technology has shown promise in animal testing, providing a therapeutic level of contraception for over a month with a single application. The experimental patch uses biodegradable polymers to slowly release the contraceptive hormone levonorgestrel.
Research finds that nearly half of young Britons don't feel ready for their first sexual experience, regardless of age. The study highlights the need for a more nuanced approach to addressing this milestone, taking into account factors such as partnership stability and communication skills.
A review of evidence reveals that as many as one in four women attending sexual and reproductive healthcare services report being coerced into controlling their own reproductive lives. Coercive control, including 'contraceptive sabotage,' undermines women's autonomy and has serious negative consequences.
Researchers found that Catholic health care facilities often limit common women's health services like contraception and sterilization, and may only offer pills as a contraceptive method. The study highlights the need for further exploration of how institutional restrictions impact patient outcomes.
A recent study from the University of Texas at Austin found that two-thirds of low-income women in Texas did not receive their preferred form of contraception at their six-week postpartum visit. Women who wanted IUDs or implants faced significant difficulties accessing these highly effective methods, with only ten percent receiving the...
A new UK study found that women experiencing domestic violence and abuse are more than twice as likely to request emergency contraception, highlighting a possible indicator of abuse. The research suggests that healthcare professionals can play a crucial role in identifying and referring these women to specialist support services.
A new VA study found that women's attitudes towards becoming pregnant also play a role in their contraceptive use. Women who don't plan on getting pregnant but are open to the idea may be less likely to use birth control. The study, which analyzed data from 858 women veterans, suggests that routine assessment is needed to help women ma...
The dapivirine-levonorgestrel ring provided protection against HIV infection and unintended pregnancy for 90 days, with plasma concentrations of levonorgestrel consistent with those required for contraception. The ring was well-tolerated and showed promising results in its first clinical study.
Women in Nigeria who received support from clerics were significantly more likely to use modern contraceptives. In contrast, strong religious adherence was linked to lower contraceptive use rates. The study emphasizes the importance of engaging religious leaders to promote family planning services and improve maternal health outcomes.
Boston Medical Center (BMC) is leading a $3.2M education program to educate hospital providers on how to counsel women about contraception use, particularly long-acting reversible contraception methods. The program aims to improve birth control options for pregnant women and reduce unwanted pregnancies.
A large study published by The BMJ found that newer combined oral contraceptives are associated with a reduced risk of ovarian cancer in young women. The positive effect strengthens with longer periods of use and persists for several years after stopping, providing reassurance for women.
A study published in CMAJ found that women with intellectual and developmental disabilities have a nearly double rate of having another baby within a year of delivering. Rapid repeat pregnancies are associated with smaller babies, preterm birth, and other adverse effects.
A study found that 15.6% of US women incorrectly identify Catholic hospitals as secular when asked about their primary OB/GYN hospital, highlighting the need for greater transparency in hospital affiliations and religious restrictions on reproductive care.
A new study from Oregon State University found that young Latina women who have experienced racial or ethnic discrimination are less satisfied overall with their contraceptive care. The study highlights the importance of addressing everyday instances of discrimination to improve satisfaction and access to effective contraceptives.
A new Lancet Commission proposes a comprehensive package of interventions addressing neglected areas like infertility services, prevention, and counselling for gender-based violence. Meeting all needs for sexual and reproductive health services would require a minimum global investment of $54 billion annually.
A recent study funded by Morris Animal Foundation failed to find an effective nonsurgical contraceptive for free-roaming cats. Researchers tested GonaCon, a vaccine previously found promising in other species, but it only provided contraception for one year in 30 percent of treated cats.
A new study found that almost half of pharmacies in Texas have an age requirement for purchase and over half require consultation prior to buying emergency contraception. The study also revealed inadequate pharmacy staff knowledge about the effective use of levonorgestrel (LNG) 1.5mg oral tablet, a common form of emergency contraception.
A new study reveals significant differences in post-concussion symptom severity and length of recovery between male and female college athletes. Notably, female athletes who used hormonal contraceptives experienced different outcomes compared to non-users, suggesting a potential impact on concussion recovery.
A new compound called EP055 has been discovered to stop sperm temporarily without affecting hormones, offering a potential 'male pill' alternative. The study found that the compound significantly slowed sperm mobility, limiting fertilization capabilities.
A PATH study in Uganda found that self-administration of subcutaneous DMPA enables women to continue using injectable contraception longer than those receiving traditional injections. The study showed a 46% reduced risk of discontinuation among self-injecting women, with younger women benefiting most.
A new male birth control pill called dimethandrolone undecanoate (DMAU) appears to be safe and effective when used daily for a month. The study found that DMAU suppresses levels of testosterone and two hormones required for sperm production, providing consistent contraception.
A recent study by Penn State researchers found that women are choosing more effective, long-term methods of contraception when cost is not an issue. Since the Affordable Care Act mandate required private health insurance plans to cover all FDA-approved contraceptive methods without cost-sharing, privately insured women have been using ...
The study found that university students lack knowledge of responsible sexuality and family planning methods. Girls tend to have healthier attitudes and more knowledge about sexual health, but both sexes show little awareness of sexually transmitted infections. The researchers highlight the importance of sex education in universities.
A new study by researchers at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center found no evidence of a link between hormonal birth control and depression. Dr. Brett Worly notes that while some groups may be at higher risk of depression, including adolescents and postpartum women, this is not due to the birth control itself.
A new study at the University of Utah Health found that removing cost obstacles allows women to access more effective contraceptive methods. The HER Salt Lake Contraceptive Initiative made all forms of contraception available, and participants could change methods at any time in the study, free of charge.
Researchers from Brigham and Women's Hospital have identified unique stroke risk factors in women, including early age of menarche, low levels of dehydroepiandrosterone hormone, and oral estrogen use. The study emphasizes the need for clinicians to consider these factors, particularly in women with a history of pregnancy complications.
Mobile health units offer a portable approach to bringing healthcare to communities, with over 2,000 units in service nationwide. Adolescents surveyed expressed interest in learning about sexual health through MHUs, with high rates of willingness to obtain birth control and recommend the service to friends.
Young adults with highly committed relationships and strong sexual decision-making roles are more likely to use hormonal or long-acting contraceptives. Conversely, those in less committed relationships or who have played a lesser role in contraceptive decisions tend to rely on condoms.
Research shows that men with higher levels of education are more likely to support their partners' reproductive and maternal health, including the use of modern contraceptives and regular prenatal care. Women with better-educated partners are up to 55% more likely to deliver their baby in a hospital staffed by professionals.
Researchers develop a new male birth control pill by modifying ouabain, an African plant-based heart-stopping poison. The derivative binds strongly to α4 protein in sperm cells, interfering with fertilization. The compound has shown no toxicity in rats and may offer reversible contraception.
A comprehensive review of available evidence suggests that replacing the DMPA contraceptive shot with alternative methods could help protect women from becoming infected with HIV. The study found that some other forms of contraception do not show the same deleterious effect on immune function as DMPA.
A recent study by Ben-Gurion University researchers found that conception during intrauterine device (IUD) use is associated with higher risks of preterm delivery, low birth weight babies, bacterial infections, and fetal loss. The study tracked 221,800 deliveries over a 23-year period.
Research suggests that the DMPA contraceptive shot increases the risk of HIV infection by 40% due to its effects on immune function and genital tract barrier function. Alternative hormonal contraceptives with a different form of progestin may help reduce this risk.
A study by UC Berkeley researchers found that just 11% of California's community-based pharmacies offer birth control services, with most charging a fee for the service. The legislation aims to make it easier for women to access contraception without seeing a doctor first.
USC researchers have developed a new methodology to measure the success of public health work while considering human rights concerns. The approach identifies approximately 40 key indicators that can monitor human rights dimensions in public health services, helping ensure that services serve the people they intend to reach.
New guidelines permit full spectrum of conscientious objection, allowing trainees to opt out of abortion or contraceptive services due to personal beliefs. However, they must prioritize patients' sexual and reproductive health needs first.
The study found that the number of women using modern methods increased by 28.8 million between 2012 and 2017, but progress varies widely across countries. Countries like Kenya, Mozambique, and Malawi made rapid strides in increasing modern contraceptive use, exceeding pre-FP2020 expectations.
A recent study published by researchers at the University of Pittsburgh found that many women after weight-loss surgery do not follow recommended contraceptive practices. The findings highlight the need for more frequent referral to counseling for contraception guidance throughout the bariatric surgery process.
A new study found that nearly half of women requesting early medication abortion cited access barriers due to long waiting times, distance, or work commitments. Thirty percent related to privacy concerns, including lack of confidentiality and stigma, with eighteen percent involving controlling circumstances like partner violence.
A UK study found that individuals who started viewing sexually explicit material at a younger age were more likely to engage in sexual activity at an earlier age. The research also revealed a correlation between ongoing exposure and having multiple sexual partners, particularly among women.
A new study by University of Utah Health and University of New Mexico School of Medicine found that hormonal intrauterine devices (IUDs) do not negatively impact lactation or breastfeeding. Women who received IUDs immediately after birth were able to breastfeed just as well as those who waited several weeks.
Research published in Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases found a link between prolonged use of oral contraceptives and reduced risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis. However, breastfeeding was not associated with a significant protective effect after accounting for influential factors.
A four-year program led by the Johns Hopkins Center for Communication Programs (CCP) increased modern contraceptive method use by 10 percentage points and desire for fewer children in six Nigerian cities. The program's successes were attributed to its coordinated campaign to create demand for family planning services.
A recent survey found that adolescent girls seeking medical care in emergency departments are open to receiving information on preventing pregnancy. The study, which analyzed data from 219 non-pregnant females aged 14-21, revealed that 72% of participants wanted EDs to provide pregnancy prevention and contraception info.
Researchers Francisco Diaz and Pak Kin Wong are developing a new contraceptive technology that targets two essential reproductive processes. Their project aims to identify effective, non-invasive, low-cost, and easy-to-use contraceptives by exploring novel approaches to contraception.