Sexual and reproductive health in military settings: A qualitative study.

Mission readiness is critical to the operational success of the United States (US) military and includes having a healthy and fit fighting force. Service members and their dependents have access to a wide range of sexual and reproductive health services with no out-of-pocket costs. Despite this access, negative outcomes such as sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and unintended pregnancy persist. Semi-structured, in-depth interviews were conducted with service members and stakeholders (e.g. medical providers). Interviews explored the individual, interpersonal, organizational, and institutional factors that inform sexual norms, behaviors, and healthcare experiences in the US military. Interview transcripts were coded manually; data were summarized for themes related to unique aspects of military culture and healthcare affecting sexual and reproductive health. Twenty-five (25) service members and 15 stakeholders completed interviews. Four themes emerged: 1) despite free access, both general and military-specific barriers to sexual and reproductive healthcare persist; 2) general and military-specific cultural norms apply to sexual behavior and care seeking; 3) sexual and reproductive health-related norms can be perceived as confusing and contradictory within the military; and 4) resources addressing sexual assault are ubiquitous in military settings, but resources addressing prevention of STIs and unintended pregnancy are limited. Both general and military-specific norms, behavior, and healthcare experiences need to be considered in clinical care, public health campaigns, and other efforts to promote sexual and reproductive health in military settings.

Referral to Adolescent Weight Management Interventions: Qualitative Perspectives From Providers.

OBJECTIVE: Current guidelines for treatment of obesity in adolescence include screening and referring youth with obesity to appropriate weight management (WM) care. However, prior work has not explored the referral process to adolescent WM programs, especially for youth from lower-income backgrounds, who are at increased risk of obesity and related negative health outcomes. This qualitative study sought to understand pediatricians' current practices regarding referrals to adolescent WM interventions with a focus on adolescents from lower-income backgrounds. METHODS: Individual interviews were conducted with 11 medical providers that had referred at least 5 adolescents from low-income backgrounds to WM interventions. Applied thematic analysis was used for data analysis. RESULTS: Identified themes included weight-related discussions with adolescents as potentially fraught, as providers want to address weight-related health concerns while being thoughtful about potential harm. Providers also noted varied factors affecting their decision to refer to WM programs, including health implications, perceived motivation of the patient and family, and availability of programs. Providers identified that many families experience shame or guilt around referral to WM. Few themes were identified regarding impact of income on weight-related conversations with adolescents. CONCLUSION: Findings were novel in regard to discussions of weight in adolescents with obesity leading to WM referral. Despite being a primary focus of the present study, few themes were identified regarding specific considerations for adolescents from low-income backgrounds. Future clinical research should focus on provider-focused interventions to increase sensitivity regarding weight-related discussions and attention to diversity, equity, and inclusion.

From "disappointing" to "fantastic": Women's experiences with labor induction in a U.S. tertiary hospital.

OBJECTIVE: The series of interventions that comprise labor induction shape patient experiences; however, patient perceptions are not always considered when structuring the process of care. Through qualitative interviews, we elucidated women's expectations and experiences regarding labor induction. METHODS: Labor induction patients were recruited from a United States tertiary care hospital's postpartum mother-baby unit and invited to participate in semi-structured qualitative interviews. Interview questions included expectations and experiences of the labor induction process, side effects and health outcomes of concern, reflections on personal tolerance of different interventions, and thoughts about an ideal process. RESULTS: Between April and September 2018, 36 women were interviewed. The labor induction process involved a wide range of experiences; when asked to characterize labor induction in one word, responses ranged from horrible, frustrating, and terrifying to simple, fast, and smooth. Inductions were often described as longer than what was expected. The most polarizing induction method was the Foley balloon catheter. Women's concerns regarding side effects largely centered on the health of their baby, and an ideal induction involved fewer interventions. CONCLUSIONS: Experiences with labor induction vary greatly and are related to expectations. The way interventions are introduced influences women's perceptions of control and their ultimate level of contentment with the birthing process. Attention to experiences and preferences has the potential to improve quality of care through communication, shared decision-making, and education.

Physician Views of Telehealth for Special Populations of Older Adults: Preliminary Findings.

This study's objective was to determine how frontline physicians perceived telehealth for older adults with sensory impairments, cognitive impairments, mobility challenges, or those receiving end-of-life care. We conducted a multiple-methods study of US emergency, geriatric, and primary care physicians. Phase 1 involved semi-structured interviews with 48 physicians on their experiences using telehealth with older adults. In phase 2, we used those qualitative findings to generate a web-based survey administered to 74 physicians. In phase 3, we reintegrated qualitative data to enrich survey results. We identified 3 key findings: (1) 50% of emergency physicians, 33% of geriatricians, and 18% of primary care physicians considered telehealth to be a poor substitute for providing end-of-life care (p = .68); (2) for hearing, vision, and cognitive impairments, 61%, 58%, and 54%, respectively, saw telehealth as a good or fair substitute for providing care (p = .14); and (3) 98% indicated that telehealth was a good or fair substitute for in-person care for those with mobility impairment (p < .001). Preferences and comfort using telehealth with older adults vary by clinical context, patient population, and physician specialty, requiring tailored adaptations.

Weight Management Engagement for Teens From Low-Income Backgrounds: Qualitative Perspectives From Adolescents and Caregivers.

OBJECTIVE: Adolescents from low-income backgrounds are at increased risk for obesity and related negative health outcomes. Furthermore, these adolescents have less access to, and success in, weight management (WM) programs. This qualitative study sought to better understand engagement in a hospital-based WM program from the perspective of adolescents and caregivers at different levels of program initiation and engagement. METHODS: Qualitative interviews were conducted with 55 participants (29 adolescents and 26 caregivers). This included: (a) those that were referred to, but never initiated, WM treatment (non-initiators); (b) those that prematurely disengaged from treatment (drop-outs); and (c) those that had ongoing participation in treatment (engaged). Data were analyzed using applied thematic analysis. RESULTS: Related to program initiation, participants across all groups (including adolescents and caregivers) noted that they did not have a full understanding of the scope or goals of the WM program following initial referral. In addition, many participants identified misperceptions of the program (e.g., perceptions of a screening visit as compared to an intensive program). Both caregivers and adolescents identified caregivers as drivers of engagement, with adolescents often hesitant about participation in the program. However, engaged adolescents found the program valuable and sought ongoing participation following caregiver initiation. CONCLUSIONS: When considering initiation and engagement in WM services for adolescents at highest risk, healthcare providers should provide more detailed information concerning WM referrals. Future research is needed to improve adolescent perception of WM, especially for adolescents from low-income backgrounds, which could increase initiation and engagement for this population.

HIV self-testing acceptability among injured persons seeking emergency care in Nairobi, Kenya.

BACKGROUND: Emergency department-based HIV self-testing (ED-HIVST) could increase HIV-testing services to high-risk, under-reached populations. OBJECTIVES: This study sought to understand the injury patient acceptability of ED-HIVST. METHODS: Injury patients presenting to the Kenyatta National Hospital Accident and Emergency Department were enrolled from March to May 2021. Likert item data on HIVST assessing domains of general acceptability, personal acceptability, and acceptability to distribute to social and/or sexual networks were collected. Ordinal regression was performed yielding adjusted odds ratios (aOR) to identify characteristics associated with high HIVST acceptability across domains. RESULTS: Of 600 participants, 88.7% were male, and the median age was 29. Half reported having primary care providers (PCPs) and 86.2% reported prior HIV testing. For each Likert item, an average of 63.5% of the participants reported they 'Agree Completely' with positive statements about ED-HIVST in general, for themselves, and for others. In adjusted analysis for general acceptability, those <25 (aOR = 1.67, 95%CI:1.36-2.08) and with prior HIV testing (aOR = 1.68, 95%CI:1.27-2.21) had greater odds of agreeing completely. For personal acceptability, those with a PCP (aOR = 3.31, 95%CI:2.72-4.03) and prior HIV testing (aOR = 1.83, 95%CI:1.41-2.38) had greater odds of agreeing completely. For distribution acceptability, participants with a PCP (aOR = 2.42, 95%CI:2.01-2.92) and prior HIV testing (aOR = 1.79, 95%CI: 1.38-2.33) had greater odds of agreeing completely. CONCLUSIONS: ED-HIVST is perceived as highly acceptable, and young people with prior testing and PCPs had significantly greater favourability. These data provide a foundation for ED-HIVST programme development in Kenya.

Strategies to Ensure Continuity of Care Using Telemedicine with Older Adults during COVID-19: A Qualitative Study of Physicians in Primary Care and Geriatrics.

Objectives: Our objective was to interview primary care physicians (PCPs) and geriatricians on their experiences using telemedicine during the COVID-19 pandemic to examine strategies used to maintain continuity of care with their patients, ages 65 and older. Methods: Using purposive sampling, we selected physicians based on community size (metro/suburban/rural) and practice setting (academic/community) and conducted semi-structured interviews via Zoom (mean: 30 minutes). Interviews were recorded, transcribed, coded, and analyzed using framework analysis. Results: We enrolled 33 physicians (15 PCPs and 18 geriatricians) from July to November 2020. Findings indicate that many physicians successfully bridged the digital divide by: assessing patients' technological readiness in advance, being flexible with telehealth modes, using available home or facility-based staff, educating patients on telehealth privacy and usefulness, making accommodations for disabilities, and involving caregivers. Discussion: These findings can inform future policy and practice and assist physicians in resolving addressable barriers to telehealth use among older patients.

Stakeholder perspectives on adjunctive mHealth services during transitions of care for patients with schizophrenia-spectrum disorders.

BACKGROUND: A growing body of research focuses on developing and testing interventions that leverage mental health-related mobile health (mHealth) services for patients with schizophrenia and other schizophrenia-spectrum disorders. Yet, most formative research has focused on patient perspectives, with little attention paid to clinical stakeholders. AIMS: This qualitative study aimed to explore clinical stakeholders' (i.e., administrative supervisors, support staff, and clinicians) perspectives on what might help or hinder the use of mHealth, particularly when patients transition from inpatient to outpatient care. METHODS: In-depth individual qualitative interviews were conducted with 18 stakeholders from inpatient and outpatient psychiatric settings. RESULTS: Four key themes were identified: (a) adherence challenges; (b) role of mobile technology in patient care; (c) clinical professionals' receptiveness to adjunctive mHealth services; and, (d) costs related to implementation of mHealth services. CONCLUSIONS: Overall, stakeholders agree with extant data showing that supportive networks are important in facilitating patients' return to the community following hospitalization. Stakeholders welcome mHealth services but suggest they should be appropriately tailored to the population, both in terms of usability and connection to ongoing traditional treatments. Demonstration of added value will likely facilitate wider implementation of mHealth services in the care of patients with schizophrenia and other schizophrenia-spectrum disorders.

Sexual Health-related Quality of Life in Women with Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension: Compensating for Loss.

Rationale: Health-related quality of life in patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) has become increasingly important in disease management as numerous treatment options have improved prognosis and time to clinical worsening. Sexual health-related quality of life (SHRQoL) is poorly understood in patients with PAH, but previous work has shown that patients may face unrecognized challenges, especially related to parenteral prostanoid analogue therapies. Objectives: Using qualitative methods, to describe challenges and perspectives related to SHRQoL among women with PAH. Methods: We conducted 13 semistructured in-depth interviews at the Pulmonary Hypertension Association's International Pulmonary Hypertension Conference and Scientific Sessions among female attendees with World Symposium on Pulmonary Hypertension group 1 PAH. A coding structure using both deductive and inductive coding was developed to organize and analyze data using applied thematic analysis. Salient themes were identified and are presented here using summary and illustrative quotations. Results: Ninety-two percent (12 of 13) of participants reported declines in the frequency of sex after diagnosis of PAH. A significant portion (62% [8 of 13]) experienced fear of having sexual intercourse because of cardiopulmonary symptoms. All participants (100% [13 of 13]) reported compensatory behaviors/strategies during and around sexual intercourse; some participants on subcutaneous prostanoids also reported timing intercourse to coincide with infusion site changes and, as a result, interrupted treatment during this time. Participants reported changing positions during sex to reduce breathlessness, and some reported removing oxygen to avoid interrupting intimacy. Most participants endorsed negative body image related to their medications, external oxygen supplementation, and/or body weight fluctuations (54% [7 of 13]). Many participants revealed that they had never discussed sexual practices with healthcare professionals and desired increased communication and discussion with their providers. Conclusions: Women with PAH face significant burdens and challenges regarding SHRQoL. PAH therapies directly affect SHRQoL. Further targeted qualitative and quantitative studies are needed to better characterize and improve SHRQoL in patients with PAH.

Assessment of standard HIV testing services delivery to injured persons seeking emergency care in Nairobi, Kenya: A prospective observational study.

Emergency departments (EDs) in Africa are contact points for key groups for HIV testing services (HTS) but understanding of ED-testing delivery is limited which may impeded program impacts. This study evaluated the offering and uptake of standard HTS among injured persons seeking ED care at Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) in Nairobi, Kenya. An ED population of adult injured persons was prospectively enrolled (1 March-25 May 2021) and followed through ED disposition. Participants requiring admission were followed through hospital discharge and willing participants were contacted at 28-days for follow up. Data on population characteristics and HTS were collected by personnel distinct from clinicians responsible for standard HTS. Descriptive analyses were performed and prevalence values with 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated for HIV parameters. The study enrolled 646 participants. The median age was 29 years with the majority male (87.8%). Most ED patients were discharged (58.9%). A prior HIV diagnosis was reported by 2.3% of participants and 52.7% reported their last testing as >6 months prior. Standard ED-HTS were offered to 49 or 8.6% of participants (95% CI: 5.8-9.9%), among which 89.8% accepted. For ED-tested participants 11.4% were newly diagnosed with HIV (95% CI: 5.0-24.0%). Among 243 participants admitted, testing was offered to 6.2% (95% CI: 3.9-9.9%), with 93.8% accepting. For admitted participants tested 13.3% (95% CI: 4.0-35.1%) were newly diagnosed (all distinct from ED cases). At 28-day follow up an additional 22 participants reported completing testing since ED visitation, with three newly diagnosed. During the full follow-up period the HIV prevalence in the population tested was 10.3% (95% CI: 5.3-19.0%); all being previously undiagnosed. Offering of standard HTS was infrequent, however, when offered, uptake and identification of new HIV diagnoses were high. These data suggest that opportunities exist to improve ED-HTS which could enhance identification of undiagnosed HIV.

Acceptability and uptake of HIV self-testing in emergency care settings: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Emergency departments (ED) interface with large numbers of patients that are often missed by conventional HIV testing approaches. ED-based HIV self-testing (HIVST) is an innovative engagement approach which has potential for testing gains among populations that have failed to be reached. This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated acceptability and uptake of HIVST, as compared to standard provider-delivered testing approaches, among patients seeking care in ED settings. METHODS: Six electronic databases were systematically searched (Dates: January 1990-May 2021). Reports with data on HIVST acceptability and/or testing uptake in ED settings were included. Two reviewers identified eligible records (κ= 0.84); quality was assessed using formalized criteria. Acceptability and testing uptake metrics were summarized, and pooled estimates were calculated using random-effects models with assessments of heterogeneity. RESULTS: Of 5773 records identified, seven met inclusion criteria. The cumulative sample was 1942 subjects, drawn from three randomized control trials (RCTs) and four cross-sectional studies. Four reports assessed HIVST acceptability. Pooled acceptability of self-testing was 92.6% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 88.0%-97.1%). Data from two RCTs demonstrated that HIVST significantly increased testing uptake as compared to standard programs (risk ratio [RR] = 4.41, 95% CI: 1.95-10.10, I2  = 25.8%). Overall, the quality of evidence was low (42.9%) or very low (42.9%), with one report of moderate quality (14.2%). CONCLUSIONS: Available data indicate that HIVST may be acceptable and may increase testing among patients seeking emergency care, suggesting that expanding ED-based HIVST programs could enhance HIV diagnosis. However, given the limitations of the reports, additional research is needed to better inform the evidence base.

Designing Dual Compartment HIV Prevention Products: Women's Sensory Perceptions and Experiences of Suppositories for Rectal and Vaginal Use.

Dual compartment suppositories are being developed to prevent HIV and other sexually transmitted infections. Such products, for use in the rectum, the vagina, or both, could have a significant public health impact by decreasing global incidence of these diseases. In this study, 16 women each used two rheologically distinct suppositories in their vagina and rectum. User Sensory Perception and Experience (USPE) scales assessed sensory experiences during sexual activity to understand whether, and how, women perceive formulation properties in the vagina and rectum. Qualitative data from individual in-depth interviews captured women's descriptions and comparisons of the experiences. Significant differences and large Cohen's d effect sizes between vaginal and rectal experiences of suppository-A were found for three scales: Application (APP): Product Awareness, SEX: Initial Penetration; and SEX: Effortful. Qualitative data provided user experience details that credibly align with these score differences. Near significant differences and large effect sizes were found for two additional scales: SEX: Perceived Wetness with suppository-A and SEX: Messiness with suppository-B. In addition, other scale scores showed medium-to-large effect sizes that correspond to hypothesized sensations associated with biophysical properties of the suppositories. Statistical significance combined with large effect sizes and qualitative data accurately represent the hypothesized perceptibility of suppository properties and identifies performance characteristics relevant to acceptability and adherence; together these data provide discernment of factors that can guide the development of dual compartment products. The Clinical Trial Registration number: NCT02744261.

Cultural Influences on Sibling Relationships, Roles, and Self-Concept in the Context of Autism: Perspectives of Latino/a/x and non-Latino/a/x Siblings.

Siblings describe positive and negative aspects of autism and often assume lifelong support roles. Less is known about cultural influences on sibling relationships. This qualitative study characterizes processes linking siblings' autism conceptualizations, sibling relationships, and self-concept using a multicultural framework. Siblings (12 Latino/a/x, 9 non-Latino/a/x white) participated. Data were stratified by ethnicity and analyzed using applied thematic analysis. Latino/a/x and non-Latino/a/x siblings described processes linking autism, relationships, and self-concept differently. Latino/a/x siblings emphasized family roles and identified as caregivers and protectors. Non-Latino/a/x siblings emphasized general sensitivity toward individuals who differed from themselves. Findings may reflect cultural differences in familism, caregiving expectations, and autism conceptualizations, thereby illuminating foundations of siblings' lifelong caregiving roles and highlighting the importance of culturally-sensitive, family-centered care.

Can Older Adult Emergency Department Patients Successfully Use the Apple Watch to Monitor Health?

OBJECTIVE: To determine usability of the Apple Watch in older adult emergency department (ED) patients after a fall. METHODS: We recruited older adults who fell and visited two urban EDs. They participated in an Apple Watch orientation and interviews on their experiences using the watch to complete varied tasks for 30 days. Interviews were recorded, transcribed, coded, and analyzed using framework analyses. RESULTS: Eight participants (mean age 77.6 years) enrolled from November 2019 to March 2020. Participants reported being able to apply and charge the watch but struggled with navigating screens, monitoring charging status, and responding with de novo text messages. Many cited difficulties with advanced tasks, such as the study's app-based movement and memory activities. Experience with smartphones and caregiver assistance enhanced users' ability to complete tasks. CONCLUSIONS: Older adults successfully performed basic Apple Watch functions. Family and community members may be necessary to assist with complex tasks.

Safety, acceptability, and pharmacokinetics of a monoclonal antibody-based vaginal multipurpose prevention film (MB66): A Phase I randomized trial.

BACKGROUND: MB66 film is a multipurpose prevention technology (MPT) product with monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) against HIV-1 (VRC01-N) and HSV-1 and 2 (HSV8-N). The mAbs were produced by transient expression in Nicotiana benthamiana (N). We conducted a Phase I clinical trial to assess the safety, pharmacokinetics (PK), and ex vivo efficacy of single and repeated doses of MB66 when used intravaginally. METHODS AND FINDINGS: The clinical trial enrolled healthy reproductive-aged, sexually abstinent women. In Segment A, 9 women received a single MB66 film which was inserted into the vaginal posterior fornix by a clinician. In Segment B, 29 women were randomly assigned to MB66 (Active) or Placebo film groups and were instructed to insert 1 film vaginally for 7 consecutive days. Visits and clinical sampling occurred predose and at various time points after single and repeated film doses. The primary endpoint was number of adverse events (AEs) Grade 2 or higher related to product use. Secondary endpoints included film dissolution rate, Nugent score (a Gram stain scoring system to diagnose bacterial vaginosis), vaginal pH, post-use survey results, cytokine concentrations in cervicovaginal lavage (CVL) specimens (assessed by Luminex assay), mAb concentrations in vaginal fluid collected from 4 sites (assessed by ELISA), and HIV and HSV neutralization activity of CVL samples ex vivo (assessed by TZM-bl and plaque reduction assay, respectively). The product was generally safe and well tolerated, with no serious AEs recorded in either segment. The AEs in this study were primarily genitourinary in nature with the most commonly reported AE being asymptomatic microscopic hematuria. There were no differences in vaginal pH or Nugent scores or significant increases in levels of proinflammatory cytokines for up to 7 days after film insertion in either segment or between Active and Placebo groups. Acceptability and willingness to use the product were judged to be high by post-use surveys. Concentrations of VRC01-N and HSV8-N in vaginal secretions were assessed over time to generate pharmacokinetic curves. Antibody levels peaked 1 hour postdosing with Active film (median: 35 µg/mL) and remained significantly elevated at 24 hours post first and seventh film (median: 1.8 µg/mL). Correcting for sample dilution (1:20), VRC01-N concentrations ranged from 36 to 700 µg/mL at the 24-hour time point, greater than 100-fold the IC50 for VRC01 (0.32 µg/mL); HSV8-N concentrations ranged from 80 to 601 µg/mL, well above the IC50 of 0.1 µg/m. CVL samples collected 24 hours after MB66 insertion significantly neutralized both HIV-1 and HSV-2 ex vivo. Study limitations include the small size of the study cohort, and the fact that no samples were collected between 24 hours and 7 days for pharmacokinetic evaluation. CONCLUSIONS: Single and repeated intravaginal applications of MB66 film were safe, well tolerated, and acceptable. Concentrations and ex vivo bioactivity of both mAbs in vaginal secretions were significantly elevated and thus could provide protection for at least 24 hours postdose. However, further research is needed to evaluate the efficacy of MB66 film in women at risk for HIV and HSV infection. Additional antibodies could be added to this platform to provide protection against other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and contraception. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02579083.

Personalized feedback improves cardiovascular risk perception and physical activity levels in persons with HIV: results of a pilot randomized clinical trial.

People with HIV (PWH) have an elevated risk for cardiovascular disease (CVD) compared with the general population. This study examined the feasibility, acceptability and preliminary efficacy of a tailored intervention aimed at increasing CVD risk perception and the adoption of heart-healthy behaviors in PWH. Forty adults were randomized to receive personalized feedback on CVD risk and discussion of risk reduction or health education. Participants were issued pedometers and seen for two treatment sessions. Participants were 60% male and had a mean age of 51.5 years. Ninety percent of participants completed all study sessions indicating good feasibility and acceptability. A medium effect size for the difference between treatment and control groups was found on both the Perceived Risk for Heart Disease (d = .38) and the Rapid Eating and Activity for Patients scales (d = .56) at 12 weeks. Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) risk score moderated the effect of treatment, such that at high (but not low) ASCVD risk, active intervention, compared to control, was associated with a greater increase in steps between baseline and both 8 (d = .38) and 12 weeks (d = .55). Findings provide preliminary evidence that tailored interventions delivered by nurses may be effective for primary prevention of CVD in PWH.

"A Woman in A Man's World": A Pilot Qualitative Study of Challenges Faced by Women Veterans During and After Deployment.

Women Veterans face gender-specific challenges to military life and post-deployment readjustment, including gender-based discrimination and military sexual trauma. Despite recent military initiatives to address these issues, women still experience unique challenges during military service. This study examines spontaneous comments about gender-specific challenges to military life that were made by participants in a qualitative study of women's transitions to civilian life after deployment to Iraq or Afghanistan. METHODS: Women Veterans who were enrolled at a New England VA hospital and who had deployed to the U.S. conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan participated in this qualitative study (N = 22). Interview queries and initial coding structure were developed through an extensive literature review. An iterative coding process generated additional themes identified in the data. For this project, codes regarding self-initiated reports of gender-specific challenges that fell outside the scope of the study's initial interview agenda were reviewed for thematic analysis. RESULTS: The following three self-initiated themes emerged among 12 respondents: 1) gender-based scrutiny and discrimination; 2) the military's inadequate position and response to military sexual trauma; and 3) disadvantages to women service members living in a male-dominated environment. Across all three themes emerged a sub-theme in which women perceived their unique needs to be inconvenient and/or disregarded. Respondents described how these challenges disrupted their lives during and after military service. CONCLUSION: Results imply gender-specific challenges and military sexual trauma remain critical concerns for women Veterans well after deployment had ended, and that improved policy may have long-term health implications.

Partner Type and Young Women's Sexual Behavior: A Qualitative Inquiry.

The incidence of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) has increased over recent years, particularly among young women. Partner type is believed to influence women's STI risk. However, researchers often restrict partner type to "casual" versus "committed," labels that can mask risk variability. Therefore, in this study, we identified and explored a range of sexual partner types in order to understand how young women's perceived risk and condom use intentions vary by partner type. Data were obtained during six focus groups of young women (N =25) who were recruited from a community reproductive healthcare clinic. Women described a range of monogamous and non-monogamous partner types that were distinguished based on partner regularity (i.e., whether the sexual partnership was ongoing) and personal relationship (i.e., degree of involvement outside of the sexual relationship). Women's perceived STI risk was higher and condom use intentions stronger with new partners, particularly unfamiliar partners (i.e., "one-night stand," "fuck boy"). Women identified potential harm from condom negotiation with all but the "friends with benefits" partners. However, the nature of this harm differed by partner type. Clinicians and researchers should consider how to support women in advocating for safer sexual behaviors across these partner types by understanding how partner regularity, degree of personal relationship, and emotional attachment differentially impact couples' condom use decisions.

The Role of Volume in the Perceptibility of Topical Vaginal Formulations: User Sensory Perceptions and Experiences of Heterosexual Couples During Vaginal Sex.

Users' sensory perceptions and experiences (USPEs; perceptibility) of drug formulations can critically impact product adoption and adherence, especially when products rely on appropriate user behaviors (timing of administration, dosing measurement) for effectiveness. The use of topical gel formulations for effective antihuman immunodeficiency virus/sexually transmitted infection (HIV/STI) vaginal microbicides has been associated with messiness and other use-associated challenges, resulting in low adherence. Nonetheless, such formulations remain attractive due to good pharmacokinetics and resulting pharmacodynamics through their volume and surface contact for drug delivery into luminal fluids and mucosa. Consequently, advocates and scientists continue to pursue topical forms [semisolid (e.g., gel, suppository); solid (e.g., film)] to deliver select drugs and offer user choice in HIV/STI prevention. The current data build on previously validated USPE scales evaluating perceptibility of gels with various biophysical/rheological properties. Specifically, increased formulation parameter space adds a new set of properties inherent in quick-dissolving film. We compared film, a product adding no discernable volume to the vaginal environment, to 2 and 3.5 mL hydroxyethyl cellulose gel to consider the impact of volume on user experience. We also examined the USPE scales for evaluation of male sexual partners' experiences. The original USPE scales functioned as expected. Additionally, six new USPE scales were identified in this enhanced parameter space. Significant differences were noted between USPEs in pairwise comparisons, with largest differences between film and high-volume gel. Product developers and behavioral scientists can use these scales to design products, optimizing user experience and maximizing adherence and delivery of efficacious anti-HIV/STI pharmaceuticals. They can be extended to evaluation of additional formulations, devices, and compartments, as well as single- and multipurpose pharmaceuticals. In broader contexts, USPEs could be of value in evaluating formulations and devices to prevent/treat other diseases (e.g., ophthalmologic, dermatologic). Steadfast attention should be given to patient experience, and, where applicable, experiences of partners and/or caregivers.