African Journal Of Reproductive Health[JOURNAL]
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200 papers
Effects of a self-care-based education and laughter yoga on chronic stress, menopausal symptoms, and salivary cortisol: A randomized controlled trial.
Gülevi DK, Bebiş H
Afr J Reprod Health · 2026 Mar · PMID 41914456 · Publisher ↗
Menopause and its symptoms significantly affect women's physical, psychological, and social well-being, often resulting in chronic stress. Education based on the self-care model's three components-maintenance, monitoring...
Menopause and its symptoms significantly affect women's physical, psychological, and social well-being, often resulting in chronic stress. Education based on the self-care model's three components-maintenance, monitoring, and management-combined with laughter yoga, a proven stress-reducing practice, may effectively aid in managing menopausal symptoms and stress. This randomized controlled trial investigated the impact of a menopause education program grounded in the self-care model and integrated with laughter yoga on menopausal symptoms, perceived stress, coping styles, and salivary cortisol among postmenopausal women. Sixty-four participants were randomly assigned to either an intervention group (n=32) or a control group (n=32). Data were collected using a Descriptive Information Form, the Perceived Stress Scale, the Menopause Symptoms Assessment Scale, the Coping Styles Inventory, and salivary cortisol measurements. After the intervention, significant improvements were observed in the intervention group's scale scores and salivary cortisol levels compared to the control group (p=0.001). The program successfully alleviated menopausal symptoms and reduced stress, with lower cortisol levels indicating positive physiological adaptation. Primary healthcare nurses are encouraged to integrate self-care-based education and affordable stress-reduction methods, such as laughter yoga, into menopausal counseling. Future studies with larger samples and extended follow-up periods are recommended to confirm these results.
Prediction of preterm birth by measuring the width of cervical internal os and length of cervical canal using ultrasonography.
Cao Y, Tan W, Xuan J … +2 more , Ni T, Xua J
Afr J Reprod Health · 2026 Mar · PMID 41914399 · Publisher ↗
This study mainly explored the application of predicting preterm birth by measuring the width of cervical internal os and length of cervical canal using ultrasonography. One hundred pregnant women admitted to our hospita...
This study mainly explored the application of predicting preterm birth by measuring the width of cervical internal os and length of cervical canal using ultrasonography. One hundred pregnant women admitted to our hospital from January 2022 to January 2023 were selected and separated into non-preterm group and preterm group. Compared with non-preterm group, preterm group had wider width of cervical internal os, shorter length of the cervical canal and higher Bishop score. The incidence of preterm birth in pregnant women with the width of cervical internal os ≥5 mm was significantly higher than that in <5 mm group. The incidence of preterm delivery in pregnant women with the length of cervical canal <10 mm was significantly higher than that in 10-20 mm group, the incidence of preterm delivery in pregnant women with the length of cervical canal between 10-20 mm was significantly higher than that between 21-30 mm group, and the incidence of preterm delivery in pregnant women with the length of cervical canal between 21-30 mm was significantly higher than that >30 mm group. Collectively, perineal ultrasound measurement of the length of the cervical canal in the second trimester of pregnancy has good application value in predicting premature birth.
Determination of parents' sense of security after spontaneous vaginal delivery and cesarean section.
Tuzcu K, Delibalta RT
Afr J Reprod Health · 2026 Mar · PMID 41910502 · Publisher ↗
This descriptive and cross-sectional study aimed to determine parents' sense of security after spontaneous vaginal delivery and cesarean section. The study included 384 couples interviewed: 192 women who had spontaneous...
This descriptive and cross-sectional study aimed to determine parents' sense of security after spontaneous vaginal delivery and cesarean section. The study included 384 couples interviewed: 192 women who had spontaneous vaginal delivery and 192 women and their husbands who had cesarean sections. The study sample comprised a total of 768 individuals. Personal information forms and 'Mothers' Postnatal Sense of Security Scale and 'Fathers' Postnatal Sense of Security Scale were used for data collection. Number, percentage, mean, standard deviation, Pearson correlation coefficient, and independent sample t-test were used for data analysis. In the study, it was determined that the mean scores of mothers who had spontaneous vaginal delivery and cesarean section on the postnatal security sense scale were 56.05±8.86 and 55.21±9.89, respectively. The mean scores of the fathers whose spouses had spontaneous vaginal delivery and cesarean section on the parents' postnatal sense of security scale were 29.78±10.59 and 28.98±10.32, respectively. Postnatal sense of security scale scores were found to be no different between mothers and fathers who gave delivery in both types of delivery (p>0.05). Therefore, it is recommended that midwives/nurses take an active role in providing counseling and support services to enhance the sense of security of parents after childbirth.
Awareness of women with gynecologic cancer about their disease: evidence from İzmir, Turkey.
Balcı MF, Abdulmecit Öktem A, Öztürk YK … +3 more , Merder D, Alan Y, Alan M
Afr J Reprod Health · 2026 Mar · PMID 41910468 · Publisher ↗
Gynecologic cancers are common malignancies among women, and awareness may influence screening and timely care. This study assessed disease awareness among women with gynecologic cancer in İzmir, Turkey. A cross-sectiona...
Gynecologic cancers are common malignancies among women, and awareness may influence screening and timely care. This study assessed disease awareness among women with gynecologic cancer in İzmir, Turkey. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 800 women aged 25-60 years diagnosed between January and December 2024 at Tepecik Training and Research Hospital. Participants completed a sociodemographic/obstetric questionnaire and the Gynecologic Cancer Awareness Scale (GCAS). The mean age was 42.3±6.9 years and the mean GCAS score was 152.2. Awareness scores were significantly higher in women aged 30-49 years, university graduates, those with income exceeding expenses, and premenopausal participants (p<0.05). GCAS scores were not associated with marital status, occupation, family type, smoking, alcohol use, body mass index, parity, or cancer type (p>0.05). Targeted educational strategies, especially for postmenopausal and socioeconomically disadvantaged women, may strengthen awareness and support participation in screening and follow-up programs.
impact of flood on maternal health in rural Hyderabad, Pakistan: A mixed-methods study.
Bhutto S, Jintu G, Khoso AR … +1 more , Suyuhan W
Afr J Reprod Health · 2026 Mar · PMID 41910446 · Publisher ↗
This study investigates the impact of flooding on maternal health outcomes among pregnant women in rural Hyderabad, Pakistan, using a mixed-methods approach combining retrospective facility record analysis (pre- and post...
This study investigates the impact of flooding on maternal health outcomes among pregnant women in rural Hyderabad, Pakistan, using a mixed-methods approach combining retrospective facility record analysis (pre- and post-flood data), quantitative surveys (n=400), and qualitative interviews (n=10). Pre- and post-flood comparisons of facility records revealed severe healthcare disruptions, with antenatal care visits declining by 60% (120±25 to 48±18/month, p<0.001) and cesarean section availability dropping from 90% to 35% post-flood. Neonatal mortality nearly tripled (12 to 34 deaths/1,000 live births, p=0.002) based on health facility data. Flood-exposed women showed significantly higher stress levels (β=3.8, p<0.001), food insecurity (β=2.3, p<0.001), and reduced satisfaction with healthcare access (2.1±1.0 vs 8.3±1.3, p<0.001). Effect sizes (Cohen's d) and β coefficients were derived from multivariate regression and between-group comparisons, with models adjusted for confounders such as income, education, and access to transport. Qualitative findings identified three key themes: (1) transportation and infrastructure barriers, (2) profound psychological distress, and (3) reliance on traditional midwives due to system failures. The study highlights critical gaps in emergency preparedness and maternal health knowledge, with flood-affected women scoring significantly lower on measures of health awareness (e.g., 3.2±1.5 vs 7.5±1.4 for water purification knowledge, p<0.001). These findings demonstrate the urgent need for flood-resilient maternal health services and targeted community education programs in vulnerable regions.
A call for peace from the Editorial Board.
Wallis AB, Ntiomo L, Edouard L … +1 more , Okonofua F
Afr J Reprod Health · 2026 Mar · PMID 41910419 · Publisher ↗
As a scientific journal committed to advancing knowledge about the health and well-being of women, children, and entire communities, we affirm a simple but urgent truth: peace is public health. The fate of humanity and t...
As a scientific journal committed to advancing knowledge about the health and well-being of women, children, and entire communities, we affirm a simple but urgent truth: peace is public health. The fate of humanity and the health of our planet are not separable from the absence of war. When human conflict erupts and escalates, it harms generations of people, planetary ecosystems, and civil society. Indeed, each of the five essential pillars - People, Planet, Peace, Prosperity, and Partnerships - upon which the Sustainable Development Goals are built, is deeply compromised by armed conflict.
Efficacy and safety of acupuncture as a non-pharmacological intervention for managing hypertension in pregnancy: A systematic review.
Maolinda W, Makajil JD, Lasimbang HB … +2 more , Friscilla I, Fitriani A
Afr J Reprod Health · 2026 Mar · PMID 41841684 · Publisher ↗
Hypertensive disorders in pregnancy remain a leading cause of maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality globally, affecting approximately 5-10% of pregnancies according to WHO estimates. This systematic review evalu...
Hypertensive disorders in pregnancy remain a leading cause of maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality globally, affecting approximately 5-10% of pregnancies according to WHO estimates. This systematic review evaluates the efficacy and safety of acupressure as a nonpharmacological intervention for managing hypertension in pregnant women. Following PRISMA guidelines, a comprehensive search of Scopus, PubMed, and Web of Science databases from 2010 to 2023 retrieved 285 records.. Quantitative and qualitative analyses were conducted based on the PICO framework to assess intervention effectiveness. Acupressure applied at key points LI4 (Hegu), ST36 (Zusanli), SP6 (Sanyinjiao), and auricular sites such as Shenmen demonstrated statistically significant reductions in systolic (10-15 mmHg) and diastolic (5-8 mmHg) blood pressure (p < 0.05). This review highlights the opportunity to incorporate acupressure into community-based maternal health services, especially in low-resource settings where access to pharmacologic treatment may be limited. However, the development of standardized clinical protocols, professional training programs, and long-term outcome evaluations is essential before widespread clinical adoption.
Improving obstetric fistula care in Africa: A scoping review of key components of repair programs.
Bigalky JL, Mackey AL, Okwuosah SC … +3 more , Dissanayakalage BS, Namathanga AM, Petrucka PM
Afr J Reprod Health · 2026 Mar · PMID 41841635 · Publisher ↗
Obstetric fistula is a preventable childbirth injury caused by prolonged labor without timely care, primarily affecting women in sub-Saharan Africa, resulting in incontinence, stigma, and social and economic consequences...
Obstetric fistula is a preventable childbirth injury caused by prolonged labor without timely care, primarily affecting women in sub-Saharan Africa, resulting in incontinence, stigma, and social and economic consequences. While surgical repair is essential, post-repair support and community reintegration are critical for recovery. The purpose of this scoping review was to assess key elements of obstetric fistula repair programs in Africa, including outreach and program delivery. A search of four databases and relevant websites was conducted to identify primary research published between 2014 and 2024. Articles were screened using defined criteria and thematic analysis identified key themes. Eight studies met inclusion criteria, revealing five themes: (1) Enhancing awareness and reducing stigma; (2) barriers and facilitators to care; (3) training and capacity building of healthcare providers; (4) integrating complementary therapies; and (5) surgical outcomes and reintegration strategies. We conclude that standardized, integrated programs are needed to improve access, reduce stigma, and support recovery.
Association between socio-economic factors and female suicide in China: Evidence from world development indicators.
Yang J, Arshad MAB, Daramola IO … +1 more , Aderemi TA
Afr J Reprod Health · 2026 Mar · PMID 41841626 · Publisher ↗
The present study examined the relationship between socioeconomic variables and female suicide in China from 2000 to 2022. The objective of the study was to assess how labor market conditions, educational attainment, inc...
The present study examined the relationship between socioeconomic variables and female suicide in China from 2000 to 2022. The objective of the study was to assess how labor market conditions, educational attainment, income inequality, and urbanization influence suicide outcomes among women. The analysis of the study was based on longitudinal data collected from the World Bank. The results show that female unemployment, educational attainment, and urbanization are closely linked to changes in female suicide rates over time. Unemployment appears to increase vulnerability, whereas education serves as a protective factor. Urbanization introduces both risks and opportunities, contingent on the availability of social and institutional support, the observed trends underscore the need to address structural socioeconomic conditions alongside mental health interventions. Reducing female suicide in China requires policies that enhance economic security, broaden educational access, and ensure that mental health and social services are accessible within the context of urban development.
"Infertility is mostly for women": University students' knowledge and perceptions of risk factors associated with infertility in Ghana.
Hiadzi RA, Akrong GB
Afr J Reprod Health · 2026 Mar · PMID 41841612 · Publisher ↗
Understanding knowledge and perceptions of infertility risk factors is crucial for promoting fertility preservation. While prior studies have explored infertility awareness among university students based on gender, limi...
Understanding knowledge and perceptions of infertility risk factors is crucial for promoting fertility preservation. While prior studies have explored infertility awareness among university students based on gender, limited research examines both genders within a single study. This study investigates university-aged males' and females' knowledge and perceptions of infertility risk factors, identifying gender-specific risks. Conducted at the University of Ghana, the study employed a descriptive cross-sectional qualitative design, involving semi-structured interviews with 21 male and 18 female students. Qualitative data analysis indicates that participants were aware of infertility and could identify gender-specific risk factors. However, many perceived infertility as a condition affecting only women. The findings highlight that excessive contraceptive use and abortion were identified as female infertility risk factors, while substance abuse and multiple sexual partnerships were linked to male infertility. This study suggests that there must be comprehensive education to address misconceptions and promote awareness of infertility risk factors across genders.
The association between sexual activity frequency and depression: The moderating role of physical activity.
Qin G, Gong Y
Afr J Reprod Health · 2026 Mar · PMID 41841599 · Publisher ↗
This study utilizes data from 12,308 adults aged 20 to 59 in the NHANES from 2007 to 2016 to investigate the relationship between sexual activity frequency, physical activity, and depression. Additionally, it examines wh...
This study utilizes data from 12,308 adults aged 20 to 59 in the NHANES from 2007 to 2016 to investigate the relationship between sexual activity frequency, physical activity, and depression. Additionally, it examines whether physical activity moderates the association between sexual activity frequency and depression, with a particular emphasis on gender differences. Logistic regression revealed that low sexual activity frequency significantly increased depression risk, while regular moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) reduced it. Furthermore, physical activity moderated the relationship between sexual activity frequency and depression: at low MVPA levels, infrequent sexual activity predicted higher depressive symptoms, whereas this association disappeared at high MVPA levels. Subgroup analyses indicated that this moderating effect was evident among males but not females. These findings suggest that regular physical activity may buffer the adverse psychological effects of low sexual activity and highlight potential sex-specific mechanisms underlying the links between lifestyle behaviors and mental health.
Effects of acupuncture on improving hormonal and metabolic biochemical characteristics in polycystic ovary syndrome.
Shao C, Li W, Liang J
Afr J Reprod Health · 2026 Mar · PMID 41841598 · Publisher ↗
We investigated the effects of electroacupuncture on hormonal and metabolic characteristics in women with obesity-related polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). In this randomized controlled study, 120 patients were assigned...
We investigated the effects of electroacupuncture on hormonal and metabolic characteristics in women with obesity-related polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). In this randomized controlled study, 120 patients were assigned to either an electroacupuncture group or a sham acupuncture group (60 per group) and treated three times weekly for 16 weeks. Hormonal profiles, metabolic parameters, inflammatory markers, ovarian morphology, and clinical outcomes were evaluated before and after intervention. Compared with sham treatment, electroacupuncture significantly reduced luteinizing hormone, LH/FSH ratio, testosterone, and anti-Müllerian hormone levels, while increasing sex hormone-binding globulin and progesterone. Metabolic improvements included reductions in triglycerides, LDL cholesterol, uric acid, fasting insulin, HOMA-IR, total cholesterol, and fasting plasma glucose, along with increased HDL cholesterol and vitamin D levels. Inflammatory markers (CRP, IL-6, TNF-α, WBC, C3, and C4) were also significantly decreased. Clinically, electroacupuncture improved ovulation rate and quality of life, and reduced hirsutism, ovarian volume, and antral follicle count. These findings suggest that electroacupuncture may serve as an effective adjunct therapy for endocrine and metabolic dysfunction in PCOS.
Personal factors influencing unplanned teenage pregnancy among high school learners at Collins Chabane Local Municipality, Limpopo Province.
Khosa NV, Tugli AK, Mokwena TJ … +1 more , Mulondo SA
Afr J Reprod Health · 2026 Mar · PMID 41841579 · Publisher ↗
Teenage pregnancy is a significant psychosocial issue in both developed and developing countries, including South Africa, leading to poor academic performance and school dropout rates. The study aimed to determine person...
Teenage pregnancy is a significant psychosocial issue in both developed and developing countries, including South Africa, leading to poor academic performance and school dropout rates. The study aimed to determine personal factors that influence unplanned teenage pregnancy among high school learners in Collins Chabane Local Municipality in Limpopo Province. A quantitative approach was employed in the study. The researcher used a cross-sectional descriptive design. A simple random sampling technique was followed to select 340 female learners, and only one school was recruited to participate in the study. The respondents completed the self-administered questionnaires. Data analysis was conducted using the Statistical Package of Social Science version 25.0. Face validity and reliability were ensured. Ethical considerations such as anonymity, confidentiality, and voluntary participation were ensured. The study revealed that 57.7% of the respondents disagreed that lack of self-confidence about sexual activities could lead to unplanned pregnancies, and 59.7% did not fear losing partners when asked about the use of contraceptives or the non-use of contraceptives. The promotion of contraceptives among youth is crucial for reducing unplanned pregnancies. Education about contraception use, abstinence, and open communication can help adolescents to make informed decisions about their health.
Clinical characteristics and referral outcomes of Chinese women with primary postpartum hemorrhage: A single-center retrospective study.
Yang M, Zhang Y, Wang Y … +4 more , Yin S, Guo X, Chen L, Jiang H
Afr J Reprod Health · 2026 Mar · PMID 41837818 · Publisher ↗
This study investigated the clinical characteristics and referral outcomes of primary postpartum hemorrhage cases. All the postpartum hemorrhage referral cases were analyzed and divided into two groups based on blood los...
This study investigated the clinical characteristics and referral outcomes of primary postpartum hemorrhage cases. All the postpartum hemorrhage referral cases were analyzed and divided into two groups based on blood loss: < 2500 ml and ≥ 2500 ml. Clinical features, complications, and treatments were compared. Patients with blood loss ≥ 2500 ml had significantly higher incidences of disseminated intravascular coagulation, organ dysfunction, intensive care unit admission, and longer hospital stays. Birth canal laceration was more frequently the cause of bleeding in this group (P<0.05). More aggressive interventions before referral, including uterine tamponade, B-Lynch sutures, pelvic vascular ligation, and hysterectomy, were required in the ≥ 2500 ml group (P<0.05), along with significantly greater blood product transfusion. Increasing postpartum blood loss was associated with worse maternal outcomes and higher treatment intensity. These findings emphasize the importance of early active management of postpartum hemorrhage and timely referral once the patient’s condition is stabilized to improve prognosis.
Exploring healthcare professionals' experiences and opinions on male involvement in family planning in Lubombo, Eswatini: A qualitative study.
Makris K, Tsabedze BP, Putnis N
Afr J Reprod Health · 2026 Mar · PMID 41837808 · Publisher ↗
Family planning enables individuals and couples to choose if and when to have children, limiting the health risks associated with early childbearing, close birth spacing and unwanted pregnancies. Male partners are increa...
Family planning enables individuals and couples to choose if and when to have children, limiting the health risks associated with early childbearing, close birth spacing and unwanted pregnancies. Male partners are increasingly seen as an opportunity to increase contraception use. As Eswatini, located in southern Africa, is a patriarchal society, increasing male involvement could improve the country's sexual and reproductive health. Twelve healthcare professionals were interviewed in Lubombo, eastern Eswatini, to further study this. Most participants felt male involvement in family planning was rare, but all supported it for reasons including more effective contraception use and better access to family planning services. Many barriers were mentioned, such as limited male responsibility in sexual health, fears of contraception, and dislike of health services. To overcome these, participants recommended education and male-only health services. This study adds an important healthcare professional perspective in a relatively little studied context.
Exploring the role of serum interleukins in postoperative recurrence of pelvic organ prolapse: Development and validation of a predictive model.
Chen G, Yin M, Wang K
Afr J Reprod Health · 2026 Mar · PMID 41837802 · Publisher ↗
To explore the correlation between serum interleukins and postoperative recurrence of pelvic organ prolapse (POP). Additionally, a predictive model incorporating both clinical parameters and inflammatory markers was deve...
To explore the correlation between serum interleukins and postoperative recurrence of pelvic organ prolapse (POP). Additionally, a predictive model incorporating both clinical parameters and inflammatory markers was developed to support individualized recurrence prevention and management strategies. The analysis included 184 patients who underwent POP surgery between March 2022 and June 2024. Among them, 44 experienced recurrence (recurrence group), while 140 did not (non-recurrence group). The serum levels of Interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6 and IL-8 in the recurrence group were higher than those in the non-recurrence group (P<0.001). Multivariate analysis showed that, IL-1β (OR: 1.420, 95%CI: 1.189 - 1.695), IL-6 (OR: 1.693, 95%CI: 1.298 - 2.207)，IL-8 (OR: 1.443, 95%CI: 1.174 - 1.774), Age (OR: 1.138, 95%CI: 1.031 1.257), Menopause (OR: 6.484, 95%CI: 1.600 - 26.275), POP-Q stage (OR: 9.162, 95%CI: 2.180-38.510) and chronic constipation (OR: 5.029, 95%CI: 1.219-20.753) were independent risk factors for postoperative recurrence. The risk model based on this model showed excellent prediction performance in both the training set (AUC=0.965, sensitivity 93.75%, specificity 87.63%) and the validation set (AUC=0.946, sensitivity 91.67%, specificity 88.37%) (P<0.05).
Effects of laughter therapy versus walking on prenatal attachment and mental well-being of pregnant women: A randomized controlled study.
Yeyğel Ç, Acar ME, Çağlayan N … +1 more , Dönmez A
Afr J Reprod Health · 2026 Mar · PMID 41837771 · Publisher ↗
This study aimed to comparatively reveal the effects of laughter therapy versus walking on prenatal attachment and mental well-being of pregnant women. The sample was identified through snowball sampling among eligible p...
This study aimed to comparatively reveal the effects of laughter therapy versus walking on prenatal attachment and mental well-being of pregnant women. The sample was identified through snowball sampling among eligible pregnant women and subsequently randomized into the laughter therapy and walking groups using random.org. This randomized controlled experimental study was conducted with 78 pregnant women (40 received laughter therapy, 38 walked regularly) in their 20-30th weeks of pregnancy. The study was conducted between April 25th, 2024, and June 25th, 2024. The pregnant women in the laughter therapy group received 20-30-minute laughter therapy sessions once a week for 8 weeks. The pregnant women in the walking group were given a walking program to follow for 8 weeks. In the laughter therapy group, the post-test Prenatal Attachment scores and the mean Mental Well-Being scores were found to be statistically significantly higher than in the walking group (Cohen d=0.59 ≈ 0.50; Cohen d=0.94 ≈ 1.0, respectively). We concluded that pregnant women who received laughter therapy had higher levels of prenatal attachment and mental well-being than those who walked.
The role of crisis management in preventing postpartum infections and enhancing recovery quality in pregnant women with premature rupture of membranes.
Wu D, Lv H
Afr J Reprod Health · 2026 Mar · PMID 41837757 · Publisher ↗
This study analyzed the impact of crisis management on premature rupture of membranes (PROM). Between March 2023 and April 2025, 146 pregnant women diagnosed with PROM were recruited from Heilongjiang Provincial Hospital...
This study analyzed the impact of crisis management on premature rupture of membranes (PROM). Between March 2023 and April 2025, 146 pregnant women diagnosed with PROM were recruited from Heilongjiang Provincial Hospital. The cohort was randomized using computer-generated random numbers with concealed allocation envelopes into an intervention group (n=73) employing crisis management strategies and a control group (n=73) following routine protocols. The specific contents of crisis management include: Dynamic risk assessment, Multidisciplinary collaborative response, patient-engaged management and Rehabilitation support. A notable reduction in postpartum infection rates was observed in the intervention group versus controls, along with shorter antibiotic treatment duration, enhanced perineal wound healing, increased pelvic floor muscle strength scores, and elevated neonatal Apgar scores. No statistical inter-group difference was found in neonatal infection rates; however, the concurrent improvements in maternal-infant outcomes and medical service efficiency confirmed the validity of crisis management used in the intervention group.
Evaluation of feto-maternal and fertility characteristics of Syrian women giving birth in a Turkey hospital.
Ersavas B, Kilinc Z
Afr J Reprod Health · 2026 Mar · PMID 41837736 · Publisher ↗
This study examined the health and fertility patterns of 100 Syrian women who gave birth at a hospital in Diyarbakir, Turkey, between February and April 2022. Findings revealed a mean age of 26.5 years, with participants...
This study examined the health and fertility patterns of 100 Syrian women who gave birth at a hospital in Diyarbakir, Turkey, between February and April 2022. Findings revealed a mean age of 26.5 years, with participants having lived in Turkey for approximately 5.5 years. The data indicated early marriages (average age 18.3 years) and first births (19.6 years), alongside high fertility rates (mean number of pregnancies: 3.4; births: 2.9). While 64% received antenatal care and 70% had normal deliveries with healthy newborns (normal Apgar scores), the study highlighted significant challenges, including low educational attainment, insufficient prenatal care, and limited use of modern family planning methods. Despite these risk factors, favourable birth outcomes were frequently observed. The findings underscore the need to enhance access to prenatal care, expand family planning education, and improve educational opportunities to promote better reproductive health among Syrian women in Turkey.
Value of faith-based services in the Maghreb countries.
Edouard L, Khaled M
Afr J Reprod Health · 2026 Mar · PMID 41837669 · Publisher ↗
In unity through diversity, the Maghreb countries share a rich sociocultural heritage with the peaceful coexistence of the three Abrahamic religions for centuries. Religious orders, especially Catholic missionaries, have...
In unity through diversity, the Maghreb countries share a rich sociocultural heritage with the peaceful coexistence of the three Abrahamic religions for centuries. Religious orders, especially Catholic missionaries, have played crucial roles in socioeconomic development including health care. As bishop of Hippo, around present-day Annaba in Algeria, Saint Augustine dispensed authoritative teachings, specially on sexuality and family life, with a profound impact and lasting influence on Catholicism. As an Augustinian, Pope Leo XIV is well-placed to promote and strengthen dialogue between religions and improve sociopolitical relations in the region through the religious diplomacy of the papal visit in mid-April 2026.
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