BMC Women's Health[JOURNAL]
Sun
200 papers
Dietary patterns, physical activity, and nutrient intake among infertile women in an Iranian setting: a cross-sectional study.
Maryam Z, Ali N, Maryam A … +3 more , Tahereh JG, Afrouz M, Atefeh S
BMC Womens Health · 2026 Apr · PMID 42050506 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Infertility affects many women of reproductive age worldwide, and various influencing factors have been identified. This study aimed to determine predominant dietary patterns, physical activity, and nutrient...
BACKGROUND: Infertility affects many women of reproductive age worldwide, and various influencing factors have been identified. This study aimed to determine predominant dietary patterns, physical activity, and nutrient intake affecting fertility among infertile women in Ardabil city in 2024. METHODS: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted on 304 infertile women attending infertility centers in Ardabil, Iran, who met the inclusion criteria and provided written informed consent. Simple random sampling was used. Data collection tools included demographic questionnaires, 24-hour dietary recall, a 168-item food frequency questionnaire (FFQ), the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ), and anthropometric measurements. Data analysis was performed using SPSS version 27, with significance set at p < 0.05. Exploratory Factor Analysis and Cluster Analysis were applied to identify dietary patterns. RESULTS: The mean age of participants was 30.62 ± 5.95 years, with most having a diploma-level education. Three predominant dietary patterns were revealed: healthy, unhealthy, and mixed. There were no significant differences in age, education, weight, BMI, or physical activity METs among the dietary groups, except for height (p = 0.005), which was higher in the healthy diet group. Total MET scores differed significantly among the three groups (p = 0.032). Significant differences were found in energy intake (p = 0.026), carbohydrates (p < 0.001), protein (p < 0.001), and several micronutrients and vitamins across dietary patterns. There was a statistically significant difference in the intake of iron (p < 0.001), magnesium (p = 0.002), zinc (p = 0.008), vitamin B1 (p < 0.001), niacin (p < 0.001), folic acid (p < 0.001), pentatonic acid (p = 0.002), vitamin C (p < 0.001), vitamin B6 (p < 0.001), and crude fiber (p = 0.001) between healthy, unhealthy, and a mixed of dietary patterns of the studied individuals. CONCLUSION: The findings indicate that a healthy dietary pattern combined with regular physical activity were associated with healthier diet and activity profiles among infertile women. Therefore, alongside medical treatments, attention to diet and lifestyle is recommended for women facing infertility.
Factors affecting health-related quality of life in cervical cancer survivors: a multicenter cross-sectional study in Korea.
An JE, Kim NK, Lee SH … +18 more , Kim KH, Kim MJ, Lee AY, Hong GU, Sim WJ, Kim SI, Kong TW, Kwon BS, Park ST, So KA, Lee WM, Lee JY, Jeong DH, Choi MC, Choi YJ, Lee JK, Min KJ, Yu SY
BMC Womens Health · 2026 Apr · PMID 42046079 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Cervical cancer is the fourth most common malignancy among women worldwide. As survival rates continue to improve with advances in early detection and treatment, cervical cancer is increasingly recognized as...
BACKGROUND: Cervical cancer is the fourth most common malignancy among women worldwide. As survival rates continue to improve with advances in early detection and treatment, cervical cancer is increasingly recognized as a chronic condition, making the management of long-term health-related quality of life (HRQoL) increasingly critical. This study aimed to describe the health-related quality of life of Korean cervical cancer survivors using the EuroQol five-dimensional five-level (EQ-5D-5 L) index and identify sociodemographic, clinical, and symptom-related factors that significantly influence their health-related quality of life. METHODS: A multicenter survey of 230 Korean patients was conducted using convenience sampling between August 2023 and February 2024. Health-related quality of life was assessed using the EQ-5D-5 L, with scores ranging from 0 (equivalent to death) to 1 (full health). Wilcoxon rank-sum and Kruskal-Wallis tests were used to compare health-related quality of life distributions, and multiple linear regression analyses were used to identify the influencing factors. RESULTS: A total of 230 female cervical cancer survivors were enrolled (mean age: 52.6 ± 11.7 years). Most were married (63.9%) and lived with two or more household members (81.7%). The mean EQ-5D-5 L index score was 0.85 ± 0.14. Significant differences in HRQoL were observed across marital status, household size, income level, hypertension, disease status, International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) stage, time since last treatment, and dyspnea severity (all p-values < 0.05). Multiple linear regression (R² = 0.689) identified advanced FIGO stage II (β = − 0.17, p < 0.001) and IV (β = − 0.12, p = 0.024), chemotherapy alone within one year (β = − 0.22, p = 0.026), and dyspnea (β = − 0.05, p = 0.037) as independent negative predictors of HRQoL, whereas living with two or more household members was independently associated with better HRQoL (β = 0.10, p = 0.045). CONCLUSION: Our results demonstrate that cervical cancer is significantly associated with a lower health-related quality of life than in the general population, with advanced cancer stage, chemotherapy, and dyspnea symptoms being the major independent negative predictors. Sociodemographic factors, particularly household composition, also play a significant role in patients’ well-being. These findings highlight the importance of incorporating patient-centered supportive care into cancer management, especially for those with advanced disease or those undergoing chemotherapy, to mitigate the symptom burden and improve the overall quality of life.
Identifying the heterogeneity of self-advocacy in patients with gynecological cancer: a latent class profile analysis.
Lin R, Zeng W
BMC Womens Health · 2026 Apr · PMID 42045925 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Gynecological cancers lead to a heavy global disease burden and severe physical and psychological distress. Self-advocacy can improve patients’ prognosis and quality of life. This study aimed to explore self-...
BACKGROUND: Gynecological cancers lead to a heavy global disease burden and severe physical and psychological distress. Self-advocacy can improve patients’ prognosis and quality of life. This study aimed to explore self-advocacy in patients with gynecological cancer and evaluate heterogeneity among different subgroups. METHODS: We conducted a cross-sectional analysis using baseline data from a longitudinal survey that assessed the self-advocacy of patients with gynecological cancer who received cancer treatment at a hospital in Fujian, China (N = 155). We identified latent classes based on the subdomains of the Chinese Version of the Female Self-Advocacy in Cancer Survivorship Scale (FSACS) using latent class profile analysis and then examined the factors related to latent class membership using multinomial logistic regression and correlation analyses. RESULTS: Two latent classes were identified: low-level FSACS (Type 1, 29.7%) and high-level FSACS (Type 2, 70.3%). Logistic regression showed that age and treatment methods were predictive factors for the potential category grouping of self-advocacy among gynecological cancer survivors (P < 0.05). The total FSACS score of gynecological cancer survivors was 66.78 ± 17.86. There was a positive correlation between the total FSACS scores and confrontation (r = 0.197, P < 0.05), subjective support (r = 0.181, P < 0.05), and utilization of support (r = 0.263, P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: This study has several limitations, including a cross-sectional design that restricts causal inference and a single-hospital sample that may reduce external validity and introduce selection bias. Patients in various subgroups displayed personalized self-advocacy. Older age and multimodal therapy options may significantly increase the risk in individuals with low self-advocacy. Healthcare providers should implement targeted strategies to enhance self-advocacy among this population.
Immune checkpoint profiling in unexplained female infertility: a prospective study.
Lu S, Lian X, Chen J … +3 more , Zhou W, Ding J, Zhong Y
BMC Womens Health · 2026 Apr · PMID 42045920 · Full text
OBJECTIVE: To explore the serum levels of soluble PD-1 (sPD-1), soluble OX40 ligand (sOX40L), soluble CD40 ligand (sCD40L), soluble CD25 (sCD25) and soluble B7H3 (sB7H3) during the early to mid-secretory phase (days 15–1...
OBJECTIVE: To explore the serum levels of soluble PD-1 (sPD-1), soluble OX40 ligand (sOX40L), soluble CD40 ligand (sCD40L), soluble CD25 (sCD25) and soluble B7H3 (sB7H3) during the early to mid-secretory phase (days 15–19 of the menstrual cycle) in women with unexplained infertility (UI) and to evaluate their feasibility as non-invasive biomarkers. METHOD: This retrospective study included 50 patients with UI (defined as infertility without identifiable causes after comprehensive evaluation) and 45 healthy women as controls, recruited from the First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University between January 2022 and January 2023. On days 15–19 of the menstrual cycle (early to mid-secretory phase), cubital venous blood was collected from fasting participants by needle in both groups. Serum levels of the soluble molecules were measured using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Associations with UI were analyzed using multivariate logistic regression and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis. RESULTS: Serum levels of sPD-1, sCD40L, sOX40L and sCD25 were significantly elevated in patients with UI compared with the controls, whereas sB7H3 was significantly decreased. In multivariate analysis, sOX40L and sCD25 were identified as factors independently associated with UI. The combination of sOX40L and sCD25 was associated with an area under the ROC curve of 0.826, a sensitivity of 78.0%, and a specificity of 80.0% in this cohort. CONCLUSION: Elevated serum levels of sOX40L and sCD25 are significantly associated with UI. The combination of these markers showed an association with UI in our analysis, suggesting their potential for further investigation as non-invasive biomarkers. These findings support the hypothesis that immune dysregulation may contribute to UI and highlight the need for further validation in larger cohorts.
Community awareness and cultural beliefs on female genital mutilation in Ibadan, Oyo State: Insights from a localised intervention.
Hammed SG, Jacob E
BMC Womens Health · 2026 Apr · PMID 42036654 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) remains a significant public health issue in Nigeria, particularly in Ibadan, with a prevalence rate of 38%. Despite increased awareness and advocacy, FGM persists as a rite of...
BACKGROUND: Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) remains a significant public health issue in Nigeria, particularly in Ibadan, with a prevalence rate of 38%. Despite increased awareness and advocacy, FGM persists as a rite of passage, chastity, or cultural custom. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the impact of community awareness programs and cultural beliefs regarding FGM in Ibadan Oyo State, examining traditional misconceptions, cultural justifications, and the impact of awareness programs. METHOD: This is a qualitative study among female young adults of reproductive age (18–49 years), who participated in semistructured in-depth interviews using a narrative inquiry qualitative research approach. Insights into participants’ experiences, perspectives, and attitudes impacted by awareness programs, as well as the interaction of cultural phenomena with public health education were revealed through thematic analysis of the data. RESULTS: Participants perceived that awareness programs and education have reduced FGM prevalence by providing accurate information, challenging misconceptions, and offering alternatives. Schools and community-based initiatives empower younger generations, but bridging generational knowledge gaps remains a challenge. CONCLUSION: Eliminating FGM in Ibadan requires not only disseminating information but also sustaining culturally respectful, context-specific advocacy. Long-term progress lies in embedding anti-FGM education in everyday institutions and empowering future generations to advocate for change.
Effectiveness of face-to-face and web-based exercise programs on health outcomes in early postmenopausal women: a randomized trial.
Kurç D, Tunalı Van Den Berg AN
BMC Womens Health · 2026 Apr · PMID 42035103 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Oestrogen decline during menopause triggers vasomotor symptoms, weight gain, and mood disturbances. Combined aerobic and resistance exercise can alleviate these symptoms, yet many postmenopausal women face ba...
BACKGROUND: Oestrogen decline during menopause triggers vasomotor symptoms, weight gain, and mood disturbances. Combined aerobic and resistance exercise can alleviate these symptoms, yet many postmenopausal women face barriers to attending supervised sessions. We compared an eight-week progressive programme of combined aerobic and resistance training delivered face-to-face or via a mobile app against an education-only control in early postmenopausal women. METHODS: Sixty-six early postmenopausal women (aged 45–60) were randomised into face-to-face supervised exercise (n = 22), mobile app-based exercise (n = 22), or education-only control (n = 22). Both exercise groups followed an identical eight-week home-based protocol combining aerobic walking, resistance, core stabilisation, and balance exercises three days per week. Outcomes included menopausal symptoms (MRS), quality of life (SF-36), depressive symptoms (BDI), fatigue (FSS), sleep quality (PSQI), body composition by bioelectrical impedance, and predicted VO₂max. Effect sizes were calculated as Cohen’s d. RESULTS: Both exercise groups showed significantly greater MRS reductions than controls (face-to-face d = − 1.16; app-based d = − 0.76). Between-group differences in body fat were negligible; muscle mass increased modestly in both exercise groups (d = 0.37–0.38). Predicted VO₂max improved in both groups (d = 1.04–1.08); the web-based group reached significance after Bonferroni correction (p = 0.007), while the face-to-face group did not. Fatigue (d = − 1.04 to − 1.66) and sleep quality (d = − 1.08 to − 1.19) improved significantly in both exercise groups. Web-based exercise significantly reduced depressive symptoms (d = − 0.92, p = 0.002); face-to-face delivery produced a medium effect (d = − 0.67) that did not reach significance after Bonferroni correction. Differences between delivery methods were negligible to small. CONCLUSIONS: Eight weeks of combined training reduced menopausal symptoms, improved quality of life, psychological well-being, and modestly increased muscle mass and predicted VO₂max. App-based delivery produced comparable effects to face-to-face supervision, though the absence of adherence data limits this comparison. App-based exercise may offer a practical alternative for women unable to attend in-person sessions. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT06868134. Registered 20,250,305.
Cervical cancer screening practices among patients with autoimmune and inflammatory rheumatic diseases: a descriptive cross-sectional observational study.
Delattre C, Uthuriague M, Barnetche T … +7 more , Lambert M, Mehsen-Cetre N, Lazaro E, Truchetet ME, Hocké C, Richez C, Bernard V
BMC Womens Health · 2026 Apr · PMID 42035038 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Immunocompromised women with autoimmune and inflammatory rheumatic diseases (AIIRDs) are at increased risk of human papillomavirus (HPV) infection and cervical intraepithelial neoplasia, necessitating appropr...
BACKGROUND: Immunocompromised women with autoimmune and inflammatory rheumatic diseases (AIIRDs) are at increased risk of human papillomavirus (HPV) infection and cervical intraepithelial neoplasia, necessitating appropriate cervical cancer screening (CCS). However, there are still limited reports on CCS practices in patients with AIIRD. We assessed the proportion of women with AIIRDs undergoing CCS in accordance with current European guidelines, and factors associated with appropriate or inappropriate screening. METHODS: We conducted a cross-sectional study at Bordeaux University Hospital (July 2023–July 2024). Women ≥ 18 years with confirmed AIIRDs (systemic lupus erythematosus, systemic sclerosis, Sjögren’s syndrome, Sharp’s syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis, or spondyloarthritis) completed a standardized self-administered questionnaire on rheumatologic and gynaecologic follow-up, CCS practices, and knowledge about HPV/CCS. RESULTS: Of the 309 participants included, 302 provided the date of their last CCS. Of these, 120 were classified as high risk for cervical pathology (receiving targeted therapies or immunosuppressive treatment), and 182 as lower risk. Overall, 188 of 302 women (62.3%) reported undergoing CCS in accordance with current guidelines. However, among high-risk patients, 45 of 120 (37.5%) had received a cervical smear within the past year. Inadequate screening was significantly associated with a low level of education, more frequent rheumatologic follow-up, and limited knowledge of cervical pathology. Notably, 16% of participants reported not knowing the purpose of the cervical smear. CONCLUSION: Women with AIIRDs may benefit from increased CCS awareness among rheumatologists and improved patient education by gynaecologist to promote screening. Further studies are needed to characterise disease- and treatment-specific risks more accurately, establish appropriate screening intervals, and optimise CCS practices for women with AIIRDs. TRIAL REGISTRATION: The study was registered on ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT05961267, date of registration 2023-07-17).
Analysis of the efficacy of adnexal mass diagnosis by senior and junior sonologists based on subjective diagnosis and O-RADS classification.
Zhou A, Hu R, Liu X … +1 more , Kuyeyibieergan G
BMC Womens Health · 2026 Apr · PMID 42032624 · Full text
BACKGROUND: In clinical practice, the majority of adnexal masses(AMs) are assessed and diagnosed by junior ultrasonologists, as there are more primary ultrasonologists than specialists. However, diagnostic omissions and...
BACKGROUND: In clinical practice, the majority of adnexal masses(AMs) are assessed and diagnosed by junior ultrasonologists, as there are more primary ultrasonologists than specialists. However, diagnostic omissions and misdiagnoses are common due to the inexperience of junior ultrasonologists, and diagnostic accuracy varies significantly among different individuals and research centres. Therefore, a more reliable assessment of the malignancy risk of adnexal lesions is necessary to aid sonologists, particularly those who lack experience, in diagnosing AMs.The purposes of this study were to compare the effectiveness of benign and malignant adnexal mass diagnosis based on subjective assessments and the O-RADS US among sonologists with different experience levels and evaluate consistency; furthermore, to analyse the reasons for missed and misdiagnosed cases and inconsistent O-RADS classification to promote the practical application and promotion of O-RADS ultrasound classification in clinical settings. METHODS: A senior and a junior sonologist subjectively evaluated and O-RADS classified adnexal masses using the blind method, both of them had participated in the systematic learning and training of O-RADS diagnostic guidelines. With postoperative pathological results as the gold standard, the receiver operating characteristic curve was used to test the diagnostic performance. Kappa (k) statistics were used to assess the interobserver agreement. RESULTS: Of the 530 adnexal lesions, 470 (88.7%) were benign and 60 (11.3%) were malignant. The area under the curve of O-RADS classification and subjective judgment were 0.94 (95% CI: 0.92–0.96) and 0.79 (95%CI: 0.73–0.84) for the junior sonologist (P < 0.05) and 0.96 (95% CI: 0.94–0.97) and 0.93 (95% CI: 0.88–0.98) for the senior sonologist (P < 0.05). The interobserver agreement was poor in subjective judgment (Kappa value was 0.34, P < 0.05). The Kappa value of O-RADS classification was 0.91( P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: For both the senior and junior sonologists, the diagnostic efficacy and consistency using the O-RADS were better than those of their subjective diagnoses. When the junior sonologist utilized the O-RADS, diagnostic efficacy was significantly improved.
Policy window period: analysis of HPV vaccination status among age-eligible girls in China (before national immunisation programme implementation).
Huang XX, Yao P, Wang Q … +1 more , Sun PM
BMC Womens Health · 2026 Apr · PMID 42032612 · Full text
OBJECTIVE: To analyse the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination status among age-eligible girls in Fujian Province, China, during 2022–2023; to assess the relationship between vaccination rates and economic levels; and...
OBJECTIVE: To analyse the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination status among age-eligible girls in Fujian Province, China, during 2022–2023; to assess the relationship between vaccination rates and economic levels; and to provide scientific evidence to advance HPV vaccination programmes. METHOD: The subjects of this study were girls aged 13-14.5 years in Fujian Province, China, from 2022 to 2023. The HPV vaccination information was collected from the Chinese Immunization Information System. The data on Gross Domestic Product (GDP) per capita and per capita disposable income were from the official statistical yearbook of Fujian Province. RESULTS: A total of 499,188 girls aged 13-14.5 years were vaccinated during the study period. The HPV vaccine coverage rate was 83.55%. The vaccination rate varied across 9 cities in Fujian province. The free vaccination rate was negatively correlated with GDP per capita and per capita disposable income. The self-funded vaccination rate was positively correlated with GDP per capita and per capita disposable income. For both free and self-paid vaccines, the strength of association was stronger for the first dose than for the second. For every 1 yuan increase in per capita disposable income, the free first-dose HPV vaccination coverage rate decreased by 0.569%. In contrast, the first-dose self-funded HPV vaccination coverage rate increased by 0.666%. Similarly, the second-dose free HPV vaccination coverage rate decreased by 0.509%, and the second-dose self-funded HPV vaccination coverage rate increased by 0.519%. CONCLUSION: During the free domestic bivalent vaccine policy period, both GDP per capita and per capita disposable income influenced HPV vaccination rates, and the direction of this association showed opposite trends according to the type of vaccine (free or self-paid). Future strategies should transition from universal coverage to stratified precision approaches, implementing differentiated vaccine subsidy and supply policies based on regional economic development levels.
Exploring the consequences of female genital schistosomiasis among women in endemic districts in Southern Ghana: a phenomenological study using photovoice methodology.
Dalaba MA, Krentel A, Manyeh AK … +6 more , Immurana M, Vidzro ES, Mottey EE, Arogundade K, Jacobson J, Gyapong M
BMC Womens Health · 2026 Apr · PMID 42032565 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Female genital schistosomiasis (FGS) is a gynaecological indication of Schistosoma haematobium infection characterized by parasite egg deposition in the genital tracts of girls and women. Despite its health a...
BACKGROUND: Female genital schistosomiasis (FGS) is a gynaecological indication of Schistosoma haematobium infection characterized by parasite egg deposition in the genital tracts of girls and women. Despite its health and social consequences, women’s lived experiences with FGS remain poorly documented. This study used a photovoice approach to contextualize the experiences of women with female genital schistosomiasis (FGS) in endemic districts in Southern Ghana. METHODS: This was a phenomenological research design that applied photovoice to data collection. Eight Photovoice Group Discussions (PGDs) were conducted with 54 women aged 18 years and older, who self-identified as having experienced FGS. Data were collected between June and November 2022. All discussions were audio-recorded, transcribed, and analysed thematically with the aid of NVIVO 12 qualitative data analysis software. RESULTS: The study participants demonstrated a clear understanding of the concept of “photovoice” and used thought-provoking photographs to express their experiences with FGS. Women reported multiple health and social challenges associated with the FGS, including abdominal pain, vaginal odour or itches, reproductive complications such as infertility, as well as social trauma and stigma. Although some participants recognized contaminated water exposure as a risk factor, misconceptions about the causes of FGS such as witchcraft, infidelity, and Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) were common. CONCLUSIONS: FGS has substantial health and psychosocial impacts on affected women. Strengthening community education and integrating FGS awareness, diagnosis, and management into reproductive health and schistosomiasis control programmes are critical to improving early detection and reducing stigma in endemic communities. Photovoice offers a valuable participatory approach for documenting women’s experiences and informing community-responsive health interventions.
Digital addiction among female university students: a cross-sectional study in Dhaka, Bangladesh.
Siddique AB, Rahman T, Rahman MM … +2 more , Islam MS, Kundu LR
BMC Womens Health · 2026 Apr · PMID 42026635 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Digital addiction is becoming increasingly prevalent, especially among university students in developing countries like Bangladesh. This study primarily aimed to understand digital addiction among female univ...
BACKGROUND: Digital addiction is becoming increasingly prevalent, especially among university students in developing countries like Bangladesh. This study primarily aimed to understand digital addiction among female university students in Bangladesh and to identify the factors associated with it. METHODS: A descript type of cross-sectional survey was conducted among 614 female university students (mean age: 21.65 ± 1.49 years) in Mirpur, Azimpur, Uttara, and Savar areas of the Dhaka district in Bangladesh between September 2 and October 15, 2023. The survey comprised a semi-structured questionnaire encompassing sections on informed consent, socio-demographic details, and the evaluation of digital addiction (i.e., Digital Addiction Scale [DAS]). Data were analyzed using Stata (Version 15.0) and SPSS (Version 26.0). RESULTS: The digital addiction score averaged 59.47 ± 18.33 out of 95 indicates the increasing level of digital addiction based on assumption. Factors such as higher education level, unmarried status, lack of physical exercise, poor self-perception of physical and mental health, and over 4 h of daily social media use were positively associated with digital addiction, while higher family income was linked to a lower likelihood of experiencing it. CONCLUSIONS: This study provides new insights into the factors associated with digital addiction among female university students in Dhaka, Bangladesh. It highlighted that lifestyle habits, mental health perceptions, and social media use contribute to digital addiction. The findings emphasize the need for targeted interventions, including mental health support, awareness programs, and strategies to promote balanced digital engagement among students.
The efficacy and safety of common non-drug interventions on stress urinary incontinence: a systematic review and network meta-analysis.
Huang A, Hu Y, Xu J … +6 more , Ding Z, Zhong Z, Li S, Chen L, Ren W, Cai W
BMC Womens Health · 2026 Apr · PMID 42026621 · Full text
OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of common non-pharmacological interventions for alleviating stress urinary incontinence (SUI) in the postpartum period. METHODS: A systematic search of electronic data...
OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of common non-pharmacological interventions for alleviating stress urinary incontinence (SUI) in the postpartum period. METHODS: A systematic search of electronic databases from their inception to December 2024 including PubMed, MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane Library, CINAHL, Web of Science, Scopus, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), Wanfang Data Knowledge Service Platform, and VIP Database was conducted to identify randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing interventions for postpartum SUI. A network meta-analysis was performed to synthesize direct and indirect treatment efficacy data. RESULTS: Twelve trials evaluating eight different therapies for SUI were included. The Vesair intravesical balloon (VIB) and electroacupuncture (EA) demonstrated the highest effectiveness, showing significant reductions in the 1-hour urine pad test and International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire-short Form (ICIQ-SF) score compared to controls at the final follow-up. EA emerged as the most promising intervention for SUI treatment among the strategies analyzed. However, caution is warranted due to evidentiary heterogeneity and potential limitations in sample sizes across some studies, which may impact the validity of the findings. CONCLUSIONS: EA and VIB are identified as promising non-pharmacological interventions for managing SUI.
The role of the health belief model and HPV self-testing in cervical cancer screening participation in the Czech Republic.
Janouskova K, Frei J, Mainz D … +5 more , Papezova K, Melichova J, Plancikova D, Sivco P, Majdan M
BMC Womens Health · 2026 Apr · PMID 42026605 · Full text
OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to apply the Champion’s Health Belief Model Scale (CHBMS) to: 1) assess the health beliefs and attitudes associated with previous participation in the national cervical cancer screen...
OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to apply the Champion’s Health Belief Model Scale (CHBMS) to: 1) assess the health beliefs and attitudes associated with previous participation in the national cervical cancer screening program among eligible women in the Czech Republic and; 2)analyze the potential increase in motivation to participate in cervical cancer screening if a home-based HPV self-sampling test were available as an alternative to the conventional Pap smear test performed by a gynecologist. METHODS: A cross-sectional, population-based study was conducted on a representative sample of women eligible for cervical cancer screening in the Czech Republic in March-April 2025. Overall, 1500 women were recruited for the survey and interviewed using the CHBMS. RESULTS: We found that 61% of eligible women reported prior participation in cervical cancer screening. Their participation was strongly associated with perceived benefits (OR 1.6, 95%CI:1.3-2), self-efficacy (OR 1.6, 95%CI: 1.2-2) and perceived barriers (OR 0.4, 95%CI:0.32–0.51), even after adjusting for age, education and monthly income. The availability of a home-based self-administered HPV test instead of a cytological exam performed by a gynecologist would increase the motivation to participate in the screening program in 29% of the eligible women. This increased motivation was strongly associated with the willingness of women to perform the self-test (OR 5.8, 95%CI:4.3–8.1) and with the availability of full coverage of the cost by health insurance (OR 2.0, 95%CI: 1.6–2.5). On the other hand, fear of test misuse and the willingness to follow-up with the physician after the self-test significantly reduced this motivation – OR 0.65 (95%CI: 0.55–0.77) and 0.46 (95%CI: 0.36–0.59), respectively. CONCLUSIONS: This study demonstrates that perceived barriers, benefits, and self-efficacy are key drivers of cervical cancer screening participation in the Czech Republic. Self-administered HPV testing offers a promising approach to increase motivation and coverage, especially among under-screened women. Addressing barriers, highlighting benefits, and ensuring effective follow-up can help achieve the WHO’s 70% screening target and reduce cervical cancer incidence. These results provide a basis for targeted public health interventions and call for future studies on the real-world implementation of HPV self-sampling in the Czech HPV-based screening transition, including provider perspectives on integration.
Women's reproductive autonomy and attitudes toward social egg freezing in a low-fertility context: evidence from Shiraz, Iran.
Mahmoudiani S, Karami P, Moradi H
BMC Womens Health · 2026 Apr · PMID 42026597 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Fertility in Iran has been declining steadily since the mid-1980s, prompting policymakers to implement various pronatalist measures. Despite these efforts, fertility rates have not increased substantially, hi...
BACKGROUND: Fertility in Iran has been declining steadily since the mid-1980s, prompting policymakers to implement various pronatalist measures. Despite these efforts, fertility rates have not increased substantially, highlighting the need for alternative strategies to support women’s reproductive choices. Social egg freezing (SEF) has emerged as a potential option for women to preserve fertility and extend the reproductive window, particularly in the context of delayed marriage and childbearing. METHODS: This cross-sectional study investigated the relationship between reproductive autonomy and attitudes toward SEF among 384 married women of reproductive age in Shiraz, Iran. Attitudes toward SEF were assessed using a continuous score derived from five questionnaire items, rather than categorical levels. Multivariate linear regression examined associations between reproductive autonomy, sociodemographic factors, and SEF attitudes. RESULTS: Women with greater reproductive autonomy and higher age demonstrated more positive attitudes toward SEF, whereas higher spouse age was associated with less favorable attitudes. Educational level and class identity were also positively associated with SEF attitudes. Specifically, greater reproductive autonomy was associated with a modest but statistically significant increase in positive attitudes toward SEF (b = 0.043, SE = 0.021, p = 0.042). CONCLUSIONS: These findings suggest that reproductive autonomy contributes to women’s receptiveness to SEF, though its effect is relatively small. Enhancing women’s reproductive autonomy, access to education, and socioeconomic support may encourage broader acceptance of SEF as a fertility preservation strategy.
Women's preferences for cervical cancer screening methods: a discrete choice experiment in Estonia and France.
Delisle V, Rochaix L, Bardou M … +3 more , Uusküla A, Tisler A, Franc C
BMC Womens Health · 2026 Apr · PMID 42021337 · Full text
BACKGROUND: This study explores women’s preferences for cervical cancer screening (CCS) in Estonia and France, particularly preferences for self-sampling (SS). Although many European countries have introduced organized C...
BACKGROUND: This study explores women’s preferences for cervical cancer screening (CCS) in Estonia and France, particularly preferences for self-sampling (SS). Although many European countries have introduced organized CCS, screening behaviours still exhibit a strong social gradient, with CC disproportionately affecting populations facing barriers to access, such as low income, rural residence, migration status or low education. The WHO has set a goal of eliminating CC and has proposed different strategies of invitations, outreach campaigns and the introduction of SS as a potential lever to increase uptake. METHODS: To assess whether these CCS strategies align with women’s preferences, we conducted a discrete choice experiment (DCE) in Estonia and France. Pooling our data (N = 4774), we used a two-stage decision-making framework; first, intervention preferences were assessed, and then the willingness to participate if preferred interventions were implemented was measured. We also conducted a heterogeneity analysis via latent class analysis. The DCE has three attributes: invitation methods, sampling methods (physician-based sampling or self-sampling), and awareness-raising campaigns. The results were analysed using a mixed multinomial logit model to capture heterogeneity in preferences and explore factors influencing CCS participation. RESULTS: The results show that the implementation of SS would: 1) increase uptake among women facing geographical barriers to CCS, 2) help engage first-time screeners in a screening pathway and 3) possibly deter participation from women already engaged in their screening pathway if implemented as sole mean of screening. CONCLUSIONS: Our results thus advocate for tailored screening programs.
Relation between Helicobacter pylori infection and menopausal symptoms in diabetic women.
Mohamed NMBED, Zidan NAG, Hussein SMF … +10 more , Altaweel EHS, Abdelmageed NA, Mohamed FS, Ahmed SA, Yassien MAAS, Abdelmaqsoud DMS, Alkhawagah SM, Elattar SM, Hassan MM, Mohamed MAI
BMC Womens Health · 2026 Apr · PMID 42015241 · Full text
BACKGROUND AND AIM: Menopausal symptoms have marked negative impact on women’s physical and mental well-being and consumes substantial amount of health expenses. However, the relation between H. pylori infection and seve...
BACKGROUND AND AIM: Menopausal symptoms have marked negative impact on women’s physical and mental well-being and consumes substantial amount of health expenses. However, the relation between H. pylori infection and severity of menopausal symptoms is a scarcely discussed issue. The present cross-sectional study aims to explore the relation between H. pylori infection and severity of menopausal symptoms in diabetic women. SUBJECTS AND METHODS: The study included 150 postmenopausal diabetic women and 150 non-diabetic counterparts. H. pylori infection was assessed using a monoclonal enzyme immunoassay–based stool antigen test. Menopausal symptoms were evaluated using the Menopause Rating Scale (MRS). RESULTS: The present study included consecutive 150 diabetic and 150 non-diabetic postmenopausal women. Diabetic women had significantly higher frequency of severe menopausal symptoms (31.3% versus 14.0%, p<0.001) and significantly higher frequency of positive H. pylori infection (56.0% versus 40.7%, p = 0.011). Multivariate binary logistic regression analysis identified significant association between BMI [OR (95% CI): 1.09 (1.01–1.18), p = 0.022], hypertension [OR (95% CI): 3.97 (1.66–9.49), p = 0.002], HbA1c % [OR (95% CI): 1.18 (1.02–1.36), p = 0.029] and positive H. pylori infection [OR (95% CI): 4.09 (1.52-11.0), p = 0.005] and severe menopausal symptoms. CONCLUSIONS: Postmenopausal diabetic women had higher frequency of H. pylori infection which may be related to more severe menopausal symptoms in this population.
Telemedicine follow-up improves early detection of ovarian dysfunction after uterine artery embolization: a retrospective cohort study.
Zheng W, Fang Z, Cai T … +5 more , Zhang R, Wang N, Chen R, Lin B, Nian J
BMC Womens Health · 2026 Apr · PMID 42015187 · Full text
OBJECTIVE: Uterine artery embolization (UAE) for fibroids may cause ovarian dysfunction, particularly concerning for reproductive-aged women. This study evaluated whether a structured telemedicine follow-up protocol enha...
OBJECTIVE: Uterine artery embolization (UAE) for fibroids may cause ovarian dysfunction, particularly concerning for reproductive-aged women. This study evaluated whether a structured telemedicine follow-up protocol enhances timely identification of early-stage ovarian dysfunction compared to traditional outpatient care, thereby expanding the therapeutic intervention window. METHODS: This retrospective cohort study analyzed 232 women aged 18–40 who underwent UAE at Fujian Maternity and Child Health Hospital (December 2020–2023). Participants were assigned to WeChat telemedicine platform (n = 138) or traditional follow-up (n = 94). Primary outcome was early identification of ovarian dysfunction, defined as diminished ovarian reserve (AMH < 1.1 ng/ml, FSH 10-15 IU/L), or subclinical POI (FSH 15-25 IU/L). Secondary outcomes included hormone replacement therapy adherence and quality of life scores. RESULTS: Telemedicine significantly improved early detection of ovarian dysfunction (21% vs 3%, p < 0.001), particularly in women aged 28–36 (OR = 7.84, 95%CI: 1.05–58.44). Follow-up completion increased substantially (3.83 ± 0.60 vs 2.67 ± 1.04 visits, p < 0.001). Among patients with confirmed dysfunction, telemedicine achieved superior hormone therapy adherence (82.8% vs 27.3% good adherence, p < 0.001) and better quality of life scores at 3 months (MENQOL: 49.83 ± 10.82 vs 59.09 ± 15.30, p = 0.038). CONCLUSION: Telemedicine follow-up after UAE significantly is significantly associated with early detection of ovarian dysfunction and treatment adherence. Integration of structured remote monitoring protocols into post-UAE care pathways may improve long-term reproductive health outcomes.
Sacituzumab govitecan combined with tislelizumab as second-line therapy for recurrent or metastatic cervical cancer: a case report and literature review.
Li H, Wu M, Xing Y … +3 more , Li J, Lin Z, Wang D
BMC Womens Health · 2026 Apr · PMID 42015186 · Full text
BACKGROUND: The second-line treatment for recurrent or metastatic cervical cancer remains uncertain and controversial. Sacituzumab govitecan, the first-in-class antibody-drug conjugate (ADC) targeting trophoblast cell su...
BACKGROUND: The second-line treatment for recurrent or metastatic cervical cancer remains uncertain and controversial. Sacituzumab govitecan, the first-in-class antibody-drug conjugate (ADC) targeting trophoblast cell surface antigen 2 (TROP2), has demonstrated promising efficacy and safety in several clinical trials for cervical cancer. However, real-world clinical data on sacituzumab govitecan combined with immunotherapy remains limited. CASE PRESENTATION: A 73-year-old woman diagnosed with stage IIIC1r (FIGO 2018) cervical squamous cell carcinoma underwent concurrent chemoradiotherapy as the primary treatment. The disease recurred 20 months later; thus 3 cycles of chemotherapy combined with bevacizumab and additional 5 cycles of bevacizumab monotherapy were recommended. Although the patient achieved complete response in both the primary treatment and the first recurrence treatment, the second recurrence was detected 15 months later. The patient underwent 6 cycles of sacituzumab govitecan combined with tislelizumab and additional 6 cycles of tislelizumab monotherapy. Partial response was achieved with an 88.1% reduction in target lesion size, along with a PFS of 9 months and an ongoing OS of 13 months. CONCLUSIONS: Sacituzumab govitecan combined with tislelizumab demonstrated potential treatment response in this case. However, further prospective clinical trials are warranted to validate its efficacy and safety in the difficult second-line setting of recurrent or metastatic cervical cancer.
Mature cystic teratoma at a cesarean-scar uterine isthmus: a case report and literature review.
Chen J, Han X, Xi J … +2 more , Yang L, Ding X
BMC Womens Health · 2026 Apr · PMID 42015095 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Mature cystic teratomas (MCTs) represent common ovarian germ cell neoplasms; primary uterine teratomas are exceedingly uncommon. We report an extremely rare MCT arising within a cesarean-section scar at the a...
BACKGROUND: Mature cystic teratomas (MCTs) represent common ovarian germ cell neoplasms; primary uterine teratomas are exceedingly uncommon. We report an extremely rare MCT arising within a cesarean-section scar at the anterior uterine isthmus and summarize the key imaging clues and follow-up considerations. CASE PRESENTATION: A 41-year-old woman presented with persistent postmenstrual brown vaginal discharge for over six months. Transvaginal ultrasonography and pelvic magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed a heterogeneous mass within the anterior uterine isthmus at the site of a prior cesarean scar. Hysteroscopic examination identified multiple filamentous whitish hair-like structures and yellow-white caseous/sebaceous material adjacent to a firm spherical mass. Histopathological analysis confirmed the diagnosis of a mature cystic teratoma, demonstrating keratinized squamous epithelium, hair shafts, focal calcification, and keratinous debris. The mass was completely excised by hysteroscopic resection under laparoscopic monitoring. CONCLUSION: This case underscores that although uterine teratomas are uncommon, they should be included in the differential diagnosis of atypical isthmic masses, especially those occurring at cesarean scar sites. Ultrasound remains the first-line imaging modality, whereas MRI is particularly useful for demonstrating intralesional fat and refining the differential diagnosis. Complete excision followed by structured surveillance is important for achieving favorable outcomes.
Thermal ablation plus HPV-specific IgY vaginal gel versus watchful waiting in women with histologically confirmed CIN1 and persistent HPV: a prospective observational cohort study.
Chen M, Wang X, Abudurehemu S … +2 more , Li L, Chen C
BMC Womens Health · 2026 Apr · PMID 42010645 · Full text
INTRODUCTION: Persistent human papillomavirus (HPV) infection drives cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN), and over time, a minority of infections progress to cancer. CIN1 typically regresses spontaneously and is usu...
INTRODUCTION: Persistent human papillomavirus (HPV) infection drives cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN), and over time, a minority of infections progress to cancer. CIN1 typically regresses spontaneously and is usually managed with observation and repeated testing. The role of active treatment for CIN1 remains uncertain. Minimally invasive strategies might enhance lesion regression and HPV clearance. The aim of this study was to evaluate the combined use of cervical thermal ablation and HPV-specific IgY vaginal gel in the treatment of cervical CIN1. METHODS: In this single-centre prospective observational study (July 2022–July 2024), 237 women with persistent HPV (≥1 year) and histology-confirmed CIN1 chose either treatment (thermal ablation plus a 3-month course of the HPV-specific IgY vaginal gel Lekeduokang; treatment group, TG) or watchful waiting (control group, CG) after counselling (TG n=106; CG n=131). Ablation was performed under colposcopy; follow-up at 6 and 12 months was used to assess lesion regression (composite cytology/histology), HPV clearance, progression to CIN2+, and safety. RESULTS: At 6 months, regression was greater in the TG than in the CG (53.8%/[57/106] vs. 21.4%/[28/131], P <0.001), with higher HPV clearance (58.5%/[62/106] vs. 18.3%/[24/131], P <0.001). Progression to CIN2+ was uncommon and not significantly different (1.9%/[2/106] vs. 3.8%/[5/131], P =0.47). At 12 months, regression remained greater in the TG (65.1%/[69/106]) than in the CG (35.9%/[47/131], P <0.001), and HPV clearance was greater in the TG (67.9%/[72/106]) than in the CG (35.1%/[46/131], p<0.001). The number of cases with progression was lower in the TG but the difference was not statistically significant (4.7%/[5/106] vs. 8.4%/[11/131], P =0.267). Multivariate analysis revealed that treatment (ablation plus vaginal gel) was significantly related to disease regression at the 12-month follow-up (P=0.003). CONCLUSION: Thermal ablation plus an HPV-specific IgY vaginal gel was associated with higher 12-month regression and HPV clearance than watchful waiting in women with persistent HPV and CIN1, while progression to CIN2+ did not significantly differ. Given that CIN1 is generally managed with observation and the study’s nonrandomized design, self-selection, single-centre setting, and short follow-up, these findings should be interpreted cautiously. Randomized trials comparing observation, ablation alone, and ablation plus gel with longer follow-up periods are warranted.
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