African Journal Of Reproductive Health[JOURNAL]
Sun
200 papers
Barriers to addiction-related care during pregnancy in Nigeria: a scoping review and health system policy analysis.
Albert OM, Arthur A, Orukpe IO
Afr J Reprod Health · 2026 May · PMID 42202870 · Publisher ↗
Substance-related exposures in pregnancy are documented across Nigeria, but their integration into antenatal care remains unclear. This scoping review and health-system policy analysis mapped empirical evidence on these...
Substance-related exposures in pregnancy are documented across Nigeria, but their integration into antenatal care remains unclear. This scoping review and health-system policy analysis mapped empirical evidence on these exposures among pregnant women and examined barriers to perinatal addiction-related care. Addiction-related care is understood here as screening, risk assessment, counselling, documentation, referral, and treatment. Five databases were searched on 6 April 2026; 23 empirical studies were synthesised with national policy documents and clinical guidelines using the WHO health-systems building blocks framework. Alcohol, herbal preparations, kolanut, self-medication with pharmaceuticals, and psychoactive substances including opioids were reported across all six geopolitical zones. No included study described routine screening, standardised documentation, structured referral, or integrated perinatal addiction-care pathways. Barriers included fragmented service delivery, workforce gaps, weak information systems, restricted pharmacotherapy access, financing constraints, stigma, and criminalisation. Non-punitive screening and referral pathways should be integrated into antenatal care to improve maternal and newborn outcomes.
Efficacy of acupoint herbal patching combined with intravenous rehydration for hyperemesis gravidarum: A retrospective cohort study.
Chou D, Wang X, Qu Z … +2 more , Chen X, Feng D
Afr J Reprod Health · 2026 May · PMID 42202849 · Publisher ↗
This retrospective cohort study evaluated the efficacy of acupoint herbal patching combined with intravenous rehydration for hyperemesis gravidarum with Spleen-Stomach Deficiency. Data from 64 hospitalized pregnant women...
This retrospective cohort study evaluated the efficacy of acupoint herbal patching combined with intravenous rehydration for hyperemesis gravidarum with Spleen-Stomach Deficiency. Data from 64 hospitalized pregnant women (December 2022-December 2024) were analyzed. Patients were divided into a control group (intravenous rehydration alone, n=32) and a treatment group (intravenous rehydration plus acupoint herbal patching, n=32). Outcomes included Traditional Chinese Medicine symptom scores, Pregnancy-Unique Quantification of Emesis scores, Quality of Life scores, ketonuria resolution, and hospital stay. Both groups showed significant improvement. However, the treatment group demonstrated superior reductions in Traditional Chinese Medicine symptom scores, Pregnancy-Unique Quantification of Emesis scores, and Quality of Life scores compared to controls (P<0.05). Additionally, the treatment group experienced faster urinary ketone negativity, shorter hospitalization, and higher total efficacy (P<0.05). No severe adverse events occurred. Acupoint herbal patching combined with intravenous rehydration significantly alleviates symptoms, shortens recovery, and improves quality of life in hyperemesis gravidarum patients with Spleen-Stomach Deficiency, suggesting its value as a safe adjunctive therapy.
Perceptions of healthcare professionals on collaborating with traditional birth attendants in reproductive health promotion in Northern Namibia.
Haikera HK, Mahalie R
Afr J Reprod Health · 2026 May · PMID 42202810 · Publisher ↗
Traditional birth attendants (TBAs) render diverse culturally acceptable reproductive health services to women and the new-born babies. However, there is no collaboration between TBAs and healthcare professionals (HCPs)...
Traditional birth attendants (TBAs) render diverse culturally acceptable reproductive health services to women and the new-born babies. However, there is no collaboration between TBAs and healthcare professionals (HCPs) in Namibia. This study explored the perceptions of HCPs regarding the collaborative roles of TBAs. An exploratory, descriptive qualitative research design was utilized to purposively select and interview twenty-two (22) multidisciplinary HCPs. Latent content analysis was used to evaluate and synthesize the data thematically. HCPs agreed that TBAs are relevant in their communities and could complement the formal health system within the scope of health promotion. Collaboration can enable TBAs to encourage pregnant women to attend antenatal care and, where the need arises, may assist with emergency births in remote places in a safe manner. This study recommends developing a framework of collaboration that outlines the scope of practice for TBAs to inform regulation and recognition thereof.
Spectrum and determinants of disorders of sex development in Sudan.
Elkareem MM, Ahmed SM, Khalid R … +1 more , Fadl-Elmula I
Afr J Reprod Health · 2026 May · PMID 42202777 · Publisher ↗
This study characterizes disorders of sex development (DSD) in 60 Sudanese patients recruited from Khartoum (2021 - 2022), revealing a high rate of late presentation (63.3% post-puberty), consanguinity, and female genita...
This study characterizes disorders of sex development (DSD) in 60 Sudanese patients recruited from Khartoum (2021 - 2022), revealing a high rate of late presentation (63.3% post-puberty), consanguinity, and female genital mutilation (FGM) in 75% of cases with genotype - phenotype discordance. Karyotyping showed 61.7% had a 46,XY karyotype and 31.7% a 46,XX karyotype, with 33.3% exhibiting discordance between chromosomal sex and sex of rearing. SRY gene analysis by PCR was negative in 10% of patients, and Sanger sequencing in a subset of 46,XY individuals identified five novel SRY mutations in seven patients. The findings underscore the influence of sociocultural practices such as female genital mutilation, and consanguinity on the expression and management of disorders of sex development in Sudan. The study offers critical insights from an underrepresented African population and addressing a gap in global literature on disorders of sex development.
Investigation of anti-Toxoplasma gondii antibody seropositivity and possible risk factors in women with abortion or stillbirth history in Kars, Turkey.
Karacali B, Mor N
Afr J Reprod Health · 2026 May · PMID 42202767 · Publisher ↗
Toxoplasma gondii is a common protozoan parasite that can cause serious outcomes, especially during pregnancy, including miscarriage, stillbirth, preterm birth, and congenital abnormalities. This study was designed to de...
Toxoplasma gondii is a common protozoan parasite that can cause serious outcomes, especially during pregnancy, including miscarriage, stillbirth, preterm birth, and congenital abnormalities. This study was designed to determine the seroprevalence of T. gondii and explore associated risk factors among women with a history of abortion or stillbirth in Kars, Turkey. A total of 274 women were included -137 with a history of abortion or stillbirth, and 137 healthy controls. Participants completed a 26-item questionnaire assessing possible risk factors for infection. Serum samples were analysed using the micro-ELISA method. In the patient group, IgG and IgM seropositivity rates were 32.8% and 1.5%, respectively while in the control group, IgG and IgM were 35% and 0.7% respectively. Overall, the prevalences of IgG and IgM in the two groups were 33.9% and 1.1% respectively. The difference between the groups was not statistically significant (p > 0.05). Significant associations were found in the patient group between seropositivity and factors such as educational level, number of previous pregnancies, abortions, and preterm births, and the source of drinking water (p < 0.05). In the control group, income level, feeding cats in the garden, and consumption of raw milk were significantly associated with seropositivity (p < 0.05). However, no statistically significant association was found between T. gondii seropositivity and a history of abortion or stillbirth when compared with the control group. The findings also reveal a relatively high seroprevalence of T. gondii in the region and suggest that several sociodemographic and behavioral factors may contribute to exposure to the parasite. Therefore, public health interventions tailored to local hygiene and dietary habits are recommended.
Strengthening reproductive health service delivery through transparent digital supply chains in low and middle-income countries.
Hao W, Zhao X
Afr J Reprod Health · 2026 May · PMID 42202314 · Publisher ↗
This study examines the role of blockchain-based accounting mechanisms in improving the governance of reproductive health supply chains in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). With a focus on countries in sub-Sahara...
This study examines the role of blockchain-based accounting mechanisms in improving the governance of reproductive health supply chains in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). With a focus on countries in sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia, this research investigates how digital accountability can address common challenges in reproductive health programs, such as commodity leakage, inventory discrepancies, and weak transparency. Using structural equation modeling (SEM), the study analyzes data from stakeholders involved in reproductive health commodity supply chains, including supply chain managers, healthcare administrators, and program coordinators. The findings reveal that blockchain-based accounting significantly enhances supply chain transparency, reduces commodity leakage, and strengthens governance accountability. These improvements lead to better availability and continuity of reproductive health commodities, which are critical for maternal health and family planning services. The study highlights the potential of digital health governance tools to strengthen supply chain operations and foster institutional trust, ultimately improving service delivery outcomes in resource-constrained settings. By integrating blockchain technology, reproductive health supply chains can achieve greater efficiency, transparency, and sustainability, contributing to the achievement of global reproductive health goals.
Movement, gender, and reproductive wellbeing: dance education as an informal health pathway for Chinese women.
Wang H, Qian C, Salutal LA
Afr J Reprod Health · 2026 May · PMID 42202313 · Publisher ↗
This study explores dance education as an informal health pathway linked to movement, gender, and reproductive wellbeing among Chinese women. A quantitative cross-sectional design surveyed women of reproductive age using...
This study explores dance education as an informal health pathway linked to movement, gender, and reproductive wellbeing among Chinese women. A quantitative cross-sectional design surveyed women of reproductive age using a structured questionnaire measuring dance education participation, psychosocial mediators, and reproductive wellbeing. Data were analyzed with descriptive statistics, reliability analysis, correlation, regression, and mediation models. Results showed that higher levels of dance education participation were associated with greater reproductive wellbeing. Dance education also positively correlated with emotional regulation, body awareness, and social connection, and negatively with perceived stress. Mediation analysis confirmed that these psychosocial mechanisms partially explain the relationship between dance education and reproductive wellbeing. These findings position dance education as a cultural, gender-responsive, non-clinical intervention for women's health promotion. The study provides empirical support for the proposed conceptual framework and aligns with Sustainable Development Goals 3 and 5, demonstrating how informal, community-based practices can support women's reproductive wellbeing in China.
AFRINA model: An innovative network-based strategy to prevent anemia and promote maternal well-being among brides-to-be.
Mizawati A, Effendi N, Sulastri D … +1 more , Purna RS
Afr J Reprod Health · 2026 May · PMID 42202310 · Publisher ↗
This study aimed to develop and evaluate the AFRINA Model (Anemia Free Integrative Network Approach) as a preventive strategy to reduce pregnancy and childbirth complications through increased awareness and education on...
This study aimed to develop and evaluate the AFRINA Model (Anemia Free Integrative Network Approach) as a preventive strategy to reduce pregnancy and childbirth complications through increased awareness and education on anemia prevention among prospective brides. A cross-sectional design was used to identify determinants influencing anemia prevention in Bengkulu City. Variables included knowledge, attitudes, perceptions, beliefs, motivation, information exposure, facility access, family support, and health worker attitudes, along with sociodemographic factors such as age, education, occupation, income, and family history. Most participants (90.5%) were aged 21-30 years, with higher education (97.3%) and employment (85.1%). Factors significantly associated with anemia prevention (p < 0.05) were income, information exposure, attitude, perception, family support, facility availability, belief, health worker attitude, and motivation. Multivariate analysis identified motivation (OR 29.837), information exposure (OR 5.358), and family support (OR 5.045) as the strongest predictors. The AFRINA Model showed predictive accuracy between 79.9% and 93.4%, with an 86.6% accuracy rate in identifying at-risk individuals. Motivation, information exposure, and family support are key determinants of anemia prevention among prospective brides. The AFRINA Model demonstrates strong predictive validity and provides an effective framework for public health interventions addressing anemia prevention before marriage.
Identifying barriers to essential newborn care practices: An assessment among healthcare providers in rural northern Tanzania.
Maat SB, Bekedam MMI, Bache EB … +3 more , de Jong HK, Chirangi BM, Grobusch MP
Afr J Reprod Health · 2026 May · PMID 42202303 · Publisher ↗
Neonatal mortality remains a major global health burden, with sub-Saharan Africa most affected. This study assessed the knowledge and practice of Essential Newborn Care (ENC) among healthcare providers in rural northern...
Neonatal mortality remains a major global health burden, with sub-Saharan Africa most affected. This study assessed the knowledge and practice of Essential Newborn Care (ENC) among healthcare providers in rural northern Tanzania and identified barriers to effective ENC. A cross-sectional survey was conducted using self-administered questionnaires among providers involved in obstetric or immediate neonatal care in Rorya district. Of the 67/68 respondents (98.5% response rate), 35/67 (52%) demonstrated satisfactory knowledge and 45/67 (67%) satisfactory practice. Being a clinical officer or untrained in ENC was significantly associated with unsatisfactory practice. Key deficiencies included improper suctioning during resuscitation, delayed cord clamping and bathing, untimely administration of medicines, and lack of skin-to-skin contact. Barriers to good ENC practice included inadequate provider training, supply shortages, and resistance from mothers. To improve neonatal outcomes in similar contexts, targeted ENC training, particularly for clinical officers and untrained staff in non-hospital settings, are urgently needed.
Traditional therapeutics in reproductive health care: Bridging indigenous knowledge and modern medicine.
Okonofua F
Afr J Reprod Health · 2026 May · PMID 42202289 · Publisher ↗
The growing global interest in complementary and traditional medicine has over time extended into the field of reproductive health. Across Africa and Asia, traditional healing systems, herbal remedies, and indigenous bir...
The growing global interest in complementary and traditional medicine has over time extended into the field of reproductive health. Across Africa and Asia, traditional healing systems, herbal remedies, and indigenous birth practices continue to play major roles in maternal and reproductive health care delivery. In many low-and middle-income countries, these approaches are not merely alternatives to modern medicine, they are often the first and most accessible forms of care available to women and families. Two important papers published in this edition of the journal provide timely evidence on this evolving intersection between traditional therapeutics and orthodox reproductive health practice.
Evaluation of the effects of probiotic supplementation on the ecology and inflammatory factors of female vaginal flora: a systematic review and meta-analysis.
Xu H, Li P, Li X … +3 more , Li P, Huang Z, Wu Z
Afr J Reprod Health · 2026 May · PMID 42138280 · Publisher ↗
This meta-analysis systematically evaluated the effects of probiotic supplementation on vaginal microbiota and inflammatory factors in women. PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, CNKI, and Wanfang were searched from inception...
This meta-analysis systematically evaluated the effects of probiotic supplementation on vaginal microbiota and inflammatory factors in women. PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, CNKI, and Wanfang were searched from inception to January 2026 for randomized and controlled studies. Outcomes included vaginal pH, Nugent score, and inflammatory cytokines (IL-4, IL-6, IL-10, TNF-α). Fifteen studies were included. Compared with controls, probiotics did not significantly reduce IL-4, IL-6, IL-10, or TNFα levels, nor did they significantly improve Nugent score. However, probiotic supplementation significantly reduced vaginal pH (OR = 0.36, 95% CI: 0.15-0.89; P = 0.03), indicating improved maintenance of a weakly acidic vaginal environment. Sensitivity analyses showed generally stable results, although heterogeneity remained substantial for several outcomes. Overall, probiotics appear effective in modulating vaginal acid-base balance but show limited evidence for improving inflammatory cytokine profiles or restoring vaginal microbiota structure. Current data are insufficient to support routine probiotic use for optimizing vaginal microbiota and inflammatory status. Further high-quality, well-designed randomized controlled trials are required to clarify their clinical benefits.
Domestic violence during pregnancy and its maternal and reproductive health consequences in mainland China: A systematic review and meta-analysis.
Cui Y, Mohamad Aun NS, Mohamad MS … +1 more , Rajaratnam S
Afr J Reprod Health · 2026 May · PMID 42138279 · Publisher ↗
Domestic violence during pregnancy represents a serious public health concern. This study conducted a systematic review of quantitative data to examine its prevalence, factors influencing it, and associated health outcom...
Domestic violence during pregnancy represents a serious public health concern. This study conducted a systematic review of quantitative data to examine its prevalence, factors influencing it, and associated health outcomes in Mainland China. Following PRISMA 2020 guidelines, a meta-analysis of 25 studies was performed using random-effects models, alongside assessments of heterogeneity (I²) and publication bias. The analysis revealed a pooled prevalence of approximately 20%, with psychological violence identified as the most prevalent form. Key contributing factors included socio-economic disadvantage, restricted decisionmaking autonomy, and risky behaviors by partners. Exposure to domestic violence substantially heightened the likelihood of antenatal depression or anxiety, pregnancy complications, and negative birth outcomes such as low birth weight and preterm delivery. Although some heterogeneity was noted, the associations were consistently observed. These findings highlight the significant prevalence and severe health impacts of domestic violence during pregnancy, emphasizing the urgent need for comprehensive maternal healthcare approaches in China. Such strategies should integrate domestic violence screening, mental health services, and initiatives promoting socio-economic empowerment.
Effects of peer education-based student empowerment on flood disaster preparedness among junior high school students.
Asih SW, Yusuf A, Sriyono S … +2 more , Supriyadi S, Handayani LT
Afr J Reprod Health · 2026 May · PMID 42138252 · Publisher ↗
Flood disasters frequently affect the Jember region, placing school-age children among vulnerable populations due to limited disaster preparedness. This study examined the effect of peer education-based student empowerme...
Flood disasters frequently affect the Jember region, placing school-age children among vulnerable populations due to limited disaster preparedness. This study examined the effect of peer education-based student empowerment on flood disaster preparedness among students at MTsN 2 Jember. This study used a quasi-experimental design with a one-group pretest-posttest approach. The study population was 320 students, with a sample of 180 students selected through a multistage random sampling technique. Data were collected using structured questionnaires assessing knowledge and attitudes toward flood disaster preparedness. Data were analyzed using the Wilcoxon Signed Rank Test. The results showed a significant increase in students' knowledge and attitudes after receiving empowerment through the peer education method, with a p-value of 0.000. The simulation-based educational approach provided an active, contextual, and enjoyable learning experience, thereby enhancing students' preparedness in facing flood disasters. These findings suggest that peer education-based empowerment may be an effective strategy to enhance disaster preparedness among students. Implementation of this approach is recommended, particularly in schools located in disaster-prone areas, as part of disaster risk reduction and health promotion efforts.
The effect of peanut ball in straddling positions on reducing labor pain: A quasi-experimental study.
Anggraini FD, Mahmudah M, Puspitasari N … +2 more , Masruroh N, Zuwariah N
Afr J Reprod Health · 2026 May · PMID 42138237 · Publisher ↗
Labor contractions play an important role in childbirth but can also cause severe pain in the lower back and abdominal area, radiating to the thighs. Appropriate efforts are needed to reduce the pain caused by these cont...
Labor contractions play an important role in childbirth but can also cause severe pain in the lower back and abdominal area, radiating to the thighs. Appropriate efforts are needed to reduce the pain caused by these contractions. This quasi-experimental study aimed to determine the effect of using a peanut ball in a straddling position on pain levels during the first stage of labor. Before the intervention, most respondents experienced severe pain, whereas after the intervention, most reported a decrease in pain levels. The results showed a p-value of 0.001, which means that the use of a peanut ball in a straddling position is effective in reducing contraction pain during the first stage of labor.
The social context of exclusive breastfeeding among mothers in Bulukumba, Indonesia: The role of the theory of planned behavior.
Idris FP, Sharief SA, Atmajaya D … +1 more , Asrina A
Afr J Reprod Health · 2026 May · PMID 42138209 · Publisher ↗
Exclusive breastfeeding is scientifically known to reduce child mortality; however, coverage remains low in Bulukumba Regency, which has the lowest rates in South Sulawesi Province, Indonesia. This study aimed to examine...
Exclusive breastfeeding is scientifically known to reduce child mortality; however, coverage remains low in Bulukumba Regency, which has the lowest rates in South Sulawesi Province, Indonesia. This study aimed to examine the influence of the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) on exclusive breastfeeding behavior among mothers in the region. A quantitative cross-sectional study was conducted with 161 mothers of infants aged 6-12 months. Data were collected using a validated and reliable questionnaire and analyzed using Structural Equation Modeling-Partial Least Squares (SEM-PLS). The findings indicate that maternal attitudes towards exclusive breastfeeding (β=0.619) and perceived control (β=0.338) had significantly positive effects on breastfeeding intention, whereas subjective norms were not significantly associated with breastfeeding intention (p=1.000). Furthermore, attitudes, subjective norms, perceived control, and intentions did not have a significant direct effect on exclusive breastfeeding behavior (p>0.05). The results highlight a gap between intention and actual breastfeeding practice, suggesting that strong intentions alone are insufficient to ensure exclusive breastfeeding. These findings underscore the importance of strengthening maternal attitudes and perceived control while addressing contextual and social barriers to behavior change.
Impact of digital cultural education programs on women's reproductive health: Evidence from a Jiangnan cultural-tourism intervention in China.
Luo Q, Duan L, Liu N … +2 more , Zhang C, Wang Y
Afr J Reprod Health · 2026 May · PMID 42138199 · Publisher ↗
This study investigates the effects of a digital cultural education intervention, incorporated into Jiangnan cultural tourism, on women's reproductive health outcomes in China. Utilizing a quantitative cross-sectional de...
This study investigates the effects of a digital cultural education intervention, incorporated into Jiangnan cultural tourism, on women's reproductive health outcomes in China. Utilizing a quantitative cross-sectional design informed by theories of cultural capital, experiential learning, and health literacy, a sequential mediation model was evaluated. Data were gathered through structured questionnaires from women involved in the cultural tourism program and analyzed using structural equation modeling. The results demonstrate that digital cultural education significantly boosts cultural capital, which enhances experiential learning and, in turn, improves reproductive health literacy. Health literacy serves as a mediator between experiential learning and improved knowledge, attitudes, and health-seeking intentions regarding reproductive health. The findings highlight the importance of culturally integrated, experiential digital education in empowering women's reproductive health. This research provides policy-relevant insights for incorporating digital cultural education into reproductive health promotion strategies in China and emphasizes the advantages of cross-sector collaboration among health, cultural, and tourism sectors.
Knowledge, attitudes, and practices of contraceptive use amongst female student nurses in South Africa.
Ntshayintshayi PN, Rasweswe MM, Phukubye TA
Afr J Reprod Health · 2026 May · PMID 42138173 · Publisher ↗
Despite widespread access to contraceptives, unplanned pregnancies continue to occur among female student nurses, often hindering academic progress. A quantitative descriptive cross-sectional study using a census approac...
Despite widespread access to contraceptives, unplanned pregnancies continue to occur among female student nurses, often hindering academic progress. A quantitative descriptive cross-sectional study using a census approach was conducted, with 170 of the 243 eligible students participating (70% response rate). The study investigated their knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) regarding contraceptive use. Data were collected through a self-administered questionnaire and analyzed using SPSS version 28.0. The findings revealed that 99.4% of participants had received education about contraception, with 67% citing healthcare professionals as their primary information source. Approximately 90% of participants demonstrated positive attitudes toward contraceptive use, while about 10% viewed it as sinful or were unsure. Furthermore, 71.2% reported current contraceptive use; among these, condoms (24.8%), injectables (20.7%), and oral pills (18.2%) were the most commonly used methods. Although overall knowledge and attitudes were positive, a minority showed gaps and disinterest, indicating the need for targeted educational support. These findings highlight the importance of integrating focused contraceptive education into nursing curricula.
Evaluating the sex lives of women with gynaecological cancer: A qualitative study on nurses' perceptions and experiences.
Kok G, Ozbek N, Guvenc G
Afr J Reprod Health · 2026 May · PMID 42138163 · Publisher ↗
Oncology nurses play a key role in addressing sexual health challenges arising from gynaecological cancer. This study aimed to explore oncology nurses' perceptions and experiences regarding the assessment of sexual probl...
Oncology nurses play a key role in addressing sexual health challenges arising from gynaecological cancer. This study aimed to explore oncology nurses' perceptions and experiences regarding the assessment of sexual problems in women diagnosed with gynaecological cancer. The study was conducted with 12 nurses working in a medical oncology clinic of a research hospital, using a qualitative design with a phenomenological approach. Data were collected through face-to-face semistructured interviews and analysed using the Colaizzi method. Two main categories were derived from the collected data: patient-nurse communication about sexual experiences and barriers faced by nurses in assessing sexual issues. These themes included six subthemes. Nurses reported difficulties initiating conversations about sexuality, feeling inadequate and uncomfortable discussing the topic, and viewed workload as a barrier to providing sexual counselling. This study highlights the obstacles nurses face in integrating sexual health into holistic cancer care.
Effect of a herbal galactagogic formula combined with auricular acupressure on breast milk production and hormonal profiles in women with postpartum hypogalactia: A randomized controlled study.
Li K, Cai D, Gao Z … +3 more , Liang X, Zhang D, Niu Y
Afr J Reprod Health · 2026 May · PMID 42138144 · Publisher ↗
Postpartum hypogalactia is a common condition that may impair breastfeeding and maternal-infant health. This randomized controlled study evaluated the efficacy of a herbal galactagogic decoction combined with auricular a...
Postpartum hypogalactia is a common condition that may impair breastfeeding and maternal-infant health. This randomized controlled study evaluated the efficacy of a herbal galactagogic decoction combined with auricular acupressure in improving lactation outcomes. A total of 104 women with postpartum hypogalactia were enrolled between July 2023 and June 2025 and randomly assigned to a control group (auricular acupressure alone, n=52) or an intervention group (auricular acupressure plus herbal decoction, n=52) for 2 weeks. Primary outcomes included breast milk production and formula supplementation, while secondary outcomes comprised serum hormone levels (estradiol, progesterone, and prolactin), symptom scores, psychological status, and clinical effectiveness. Both groups showed significant post-treatment improvements (P<0.05). Compared with the control group, the intervention group demonstrated lower estradiol and progesterone levels, higher prolactin levels, increased milk production, and reduced formula supplementation (P<0.05). Symptom scores and anxiety/depression levels were also significantly improved. The overall effective rate was higher in the intervention group (96.15% vs 80.77%, P<0.05), with comparable safety profiles. This combined therapy appears to be a safe and effective complementary approach for improving lactation in women with postpartum hypogalactia.
Examining implementation of health exception laws in six countries.
Fortman EC, Stratis CR, Berchmans-Uwimana J … +4 more , Sepúlveda L, Chavkin W, Shaw D, Awoonor-Williams K
Afr J Reprod Health · 2026 May · PMID 42138025 · Publisher ↗
Exceptions to abortion restrictions on the grounds of protecting life or health enable essential care for pregnancy complications but are often underutilized or inconsistently applied. Through a narrative study, Global D...
Exceptions to abortion restrictions on the grounds of protecting life or health enable essential care for pregnancy complications but are often underutilized or inconsistently applied. Through a narrative study, Global Doctors for Choice (GDC) aimed to identify barriers and facilitators to implementing these exceptions. We conducted literature and desk reviews and 15 semi-structured interviews (May-August 2025) with physicians, lawyers, and advocates from six countries: Colombia, Ghana, Ireland, Peru, Rwanda, and South Korea. Interviews were transcribed, de-identified, and analyzed for common themes. Implementation depended on disparate, often narrow or incorrect, interpretations by clinicians and institutions. Barriers included lack of training, geographic obstacles, personnel and supply constraints, stigma, and logistical delays, which push patients toward unsafe abortion. Facilitators involved comprehensive training with values clarification, patient awareness campaigns, unambiguous guidelines, and committed advocacy. Ultimately, clear legal frameworks, provider education, advocacy, and patient empowerment could improve access in diverse clinical and legal settings.
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