Latest
These articles are the latest published in the journal. Sexual Health is published under a continuous publication model. More information is available on our Continuous Publication page.
SH25003Attitudes towards and use of point-of-care tests for STIs: results from a survey of STI conference attendees in 2023



Newer point-of-care tests for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) have become increasingly available since the COVID-19 pandemic. Little is known regarding the use of these tests in clinical practice as well as the potential challenges of integrating them into care. Survey data from individuals attending an international STI conference is presented, highlighting practice trends and barriers to implementation.
SH24188A pilot study, auditing digital communication to conduct sexual and reproductive health service outreach to Chinese- and Thai-speaking sex workers in Sydney
It is important to engage culturally and linguistically diverse sex industry workers with sexual health care. A large sexual health service has piloted the implementation of WeChat and LINE digital platforms to enhance outreach to Thai- and Chinese-speaking sex industry workers operating in inner-city Sydney. Results indicated that the platforms are both effective in reaching new clients and are utilised by existing sex industry worker clients of the sexual health service for service navigation and booking appointments.
SH25017Position statement on doxycycline post-exposure prophylaxis for the prevention of bacterial sexually transmissible infections in Aotearoa New Zealand: the New Zealand Sexual Health Society
This position statement from the New Zealand Sexual Health Society outlines the background, process and recommendations of a cross-sectoral meeting on doxycycline prophylaxis to prevent bacterial STIs. The New Zealand Sexual Health Society recommends that this prevention strategy be considered as part of a comprehensive STI prevention approach, and this statement provides guidance for clinicians in Aotearoa New Zealand on when to consider and how to prescribe doxycycline prophylaxis. STI diagnostic considerations, and monitoring and surveillance are discussed.
SH24159Turkish adaptation, validity and reliability study of the sexual and reproductive empowerment scale for adolescents and young adults
Studies have shown that adolescents and young adults in Turkey face various difficulties in sexual and reproductive health. It has been observed that there is a need for a scale to assess the sexual and reproductive health empowerment of adolescents and young adults in Turkey. This study found that the Sexual and Reproductive Health Empowerment Scale for Adolescents and Young Adults is a valid and highly reliable instrument for the Turkish population.
SH24210Financial sustainability of HIV services for key populations in four countries in Asia: a mixed-methods study
Middle-income countries that are transitioning away from external donor funding for HIV services targetting key populations need to have policies in place and domestic resources allocated to continue providing the services sustainably without disruption. We analyzed and presented the findings from the surveys and key informant interviews of diverse stakeholders to understand barriers to domestic funding for key population–led HIV programming in four selected countries (Bhutan, Mongolia, the Philippines, Sri Lanka) in Asia that are scheduled for transition.
SH24210 Abstract | SH24210 Full Text | SH24210PDF (243 KB) | SH24210Supplementary Material (232 KB) Open Access Article
SH24093Barriers and facilitators to accessing sexual health services among middle-aged and older adults in the UK, including those with disabilities: a qualitative analysis





Despite evidence that many middle-aged and older adults in the UK remain sexually active, their access to and uptake of sexual health services has been underestimated. Our exploration of their lived experiences revealed physical barriers and the stigma around their sexual health and of being perceived as asexual by health professionals. To improve service provision and access, a multi-faceted approach is needed, including enhanced training for healthcare providers, further research, and supportive policies.
This article belongs to the collection: Sexual health among older adults: A multi-disciplinary collection.
SH24093 Abstract | SH24093 Full Text | SH24093PDF (1 MB) | SH24093Supplementary Material (1.5 MB) Open Access Article
SH24247Preferences and willingness to use pre-exposure prophylaxis for HIV among men who have sex with men in mainland China and Hong Kong










PrEP uptake remains low among MSM in mainland China and Hong Kong. This study found that oral PrEP was most preferred, with MSM in mainland China more likely to use on-demand PrEP, whereas MSM in Hong Kong were more likely to use monthly oral PrEP. These findings highlight the need for specific strategies to improve PrEP uptake and address local social and behavioural influences on HIV prevention.
This article belongs to the collection: Awareness, Preferenes, and the Use of PrEP in Asia Among Men Who Have Sex With Men Findings from the PrEP APPEAL Study.
SH24247 Abstract | SH24247 Full Text | SH24247PDF (3.3 MB) | SH24247Supplementary Material (526 KB) Open Access Article
SH24136Awareness and willingness toward doxycycline post-exposure prophylaxis use for bacterial sexually transmitted infections among men who have sex with men



Using doxycycline after exposure (doxycycline post-exposure prophylaxis) can prevent men who have sex with men from contracting STIs. A study in Taiwan found that these men were open to using doxycycline post-exposure prophylaxis, especially when they felt that they might be at risk of STIs. It is important to understand their readiness to identify behaviors that increase the chances of contracting or transmitting STIs, and to offer education and support to help them use doxycycline post-exposure prophylaxis effectively.
SH24136 Abstract | SH24136 Full Text | SH24136PDF (905 KB) | SH24136Supplementary Material (703 KB) Open Access Article
SH24116Using photovoice to explore HIV self-testing and secondary distribution of HIV self-testing among gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men in China






This study sheds light on the experiences of HIV self-testing and secondary distribution among Chinese gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men. Utilizing the photovoice methodology, the research reveals how systemic discrimination and AIDS-phobia affect their decision-making. The findings emphasize the need for community engagement and supportive policies to enhance HIV self-testing uptake, highlighting the broader implications for public health and inclusivity in China.
SH24195A comparative analysis of abortion care and outcomes post-decriminalisation in a public sexual health clinic in Queensland, Australia
Since Queensland’s decriminalisation of abortion in 2018, societal views have shifted, seeing abortion as a healthcare standard rather than a crime. However, most abortions are still privately funded in Australia. Cairns Sexual Health Service, a public provider, offers affordable, timely abortions without a GP referral. This paper examines clinical practice from 2019 to 2023, detailing the demographics and outcomes of those accessing the service. It also compares these results to a 2011–2015 review, prior to decriminalisation.
SH24237_COCorrigendum to: Assessing and projecting the global impacts of female infertility: a 1990–2040 analysis from the Global Burden of Disease study
SH24208Diagnoses of sexually transmissible infections in HIV-serodiscordant male couples in Australia, Brazil and Thailand




STIs remain a key concern in the context of HIV biomedical prevention. In a study of 343 male HIV-serodiscordant couples in Australia, Brazil and Thailand, we found higher rates of STI diagnosis for HIV-positive partners compared with their HIV-negative regular partners, and couples were typically not diagnosed with an STI together. HIV transmission risk has been eliminated for HIV-serodiscordant couples where the HIV-positive partner has a supressed viral load; however, other STIs continue to be diagnosed.
SH24208 Abstract | SH24208 Full Text | SH24208PDF (308 KB) Open Access Article
SH25010Empowering adolescent girls in Pakistan: development and feasibility of the Girls’ Voices Curriculum for advocacy and leadership
The ‘Girls’ Voices Curriculum’, a 10-week girl-led advocacy program, was piloted in Sindh, Pakistan, to empower underprivileged adolescent girls. Evaluated for cultural acceptability with 86 educators, it showed promise in fostering gender equality, leadership, and problem-solving skills. Efforts continue to integrate and scale the curriculum for broader impact.
SH24196Engaging citizens to conduct large-scale qualitative research: lessons learnt from a community-engaged research project on queer men’s lived experiences of health in Singapore



This study highlights the importance of community involvement in HIV research, particularly among marginalized groups, such as young gay, bisexual, and queer men in Singapore and Malaysia. A collaborative project between the National University of Singapore and a local organization, RainbowAsia, used a citizen-led approach to overcome funding challenges and stigma. The research focused on issues, such as mental health and relationships, relying on community resources and volunteers. The proposed framework includes eight phases for effective collaboration, aiming to transform research into impactful community programs.
SH24196 Abstract | SH24196 Full Text | SH24196PDF (1 MB) | SH24196Supplementary Material (1.7 MB) Open Access Article
Just Accepted
These articles have been peer reviewed and accepted for publication. They are still in production and have not been edited, so may differ from the final published form.
The relative importance of social ecological factors on psychosexual health among adolescent students: based on dominance analysis

Engage and Adapt: Peer-led Implementation of HIV Navigation in Australia

Extending the use period of hormonal Long-Acting Reversible Contraceptive devices in Australia: exploring patterns of use in a cohort of users pre-and post-COVID guidance.


Exploring Syphilis Activity for Personalized Treatment Strategies in Latent Syphilis: A Two-Year Cohort Study

Recruiting participants via social media for sexual and reproductive health research









Factors associated with time to presentation to Sydney Sexual Health Centre, Australia, after STI contact notification
Most Read
The Most Read ranking is based on the number of downloads in the last 60 days from papers published on the CSIRO PUBLISHING website within the last 12 months. Usage statistics are updated daily.
-
-
-
-
Can network-based testing services have an impact beyond testing for HIV?
Sexual Health 22 (2) -
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Strategies to sustain HIV prevention interventions among adolescents and young adults: analysis of data from a crowdsourcing open call in Nigeria
Sexual Health 22 (3)Ujunwa Onyeama, Lauren Fidelak, Weiming Tang
, Susan Nkengasong, Titilola Gbaja-Biamila, Lateef Akeem, Adesola Zaidat Musa, Folahanmi Tomiwa Akinsolu, Tomilola Musari-Martins
, Jane Okwuzu, Aishat Adedoyin Koledowo, Suzanne Day, Temitope Ojo, Olufunto A. Olusanya, Kadija M. Tahlil, Donaldson F. Conserve, Oluwaseun Adebayo Bamodu, Nora E. Rosenberg, Ucheoma Nwaozuru, Chisom Obiezu-Umeh, Collins Airhihenbuwa, Oliver Ezechi, Juliet Iwelunmor, Joseph D. Tucker
-
-
A digital citizen science intervention to reduce HIV stigma and promote HIV testing: a randomized clinical trial among adolescents and young adults in Kazakhstan
Sexual Health 22 (2)Alissa Davis, Laura Nyblade, Yihang Sun, Olga Balabekova, Sara E. Landers, Denis Gryazev, Joseph D. Tucker
, Valera Gulyaev, Susan L. Rosenthal, Karsten Lunze, Weiming Tang
, Azamat Kuskulov, Assel Terlikbayeva, Sholpan Primbetova, Mingway Chang, Alfiya Y. Denebayeva, Aikerim Utegulovna Akhmetova, Ainur Absemetova, Sholpan Karzhaubayeva, Sairankul Kassymbekova, Marina Maximova, Zhannat Mussina, Gulnar Bekenova, Zhamilya Nugmanova, Zhanna Kalmatayeva, Ludmila Polyakova, Zhanneta Kanaevna Zhazykbaeva, Vitaliy Vinogradov, Amir Shaikezhanov, Meruyert Darisheva, Bella Orynbetova, Elena Norakidze, Mashirov Kozhakhmet, Akbota Tolegenova, Aknur Imadillda, Dariga Satkhozhina, Alikhan Kartamyssov, Zhamilya Kanieva, Albina Aleshina, Olzhas Makhan, Aida Muravyova, Adema Rahimzanova, Arman Duisenbayev
, Zhanerke Tursynbek, Nurgazy Dias, Malika Beken, Miras Murzakhan, Zhandos Ali Brown, Daniyal Maitekov, Artur Li, Sandizaira Mergen, Dautali Mergenov, Amirali Kuanysh, Anuar Rakhimbekov, Yenlik Baisbay, Alibek Aruzhan, Zhasmina Kozhambet, Denis Grebenchishikov, Dmitriy Bekker, Sultan Kozhamberdiev, Dauren Salykov, Madina Sagimbayeva, Kamila Yussupova, Gaukhar Mergenova
-
Preferences and willingness to use pre-exposure prophylaxis for HIV among men who have sex with men in mainland China and Hong Kong
Sexual Health 22 (3)Jiajun Sun, Jason J. Ong
, Heather-Marie Schmidt
, Curtis Chan
, Benjamin R. Bavinton
, Kimberly Elizabeth Green
, Nittaya Phanuphak
, Midnight Poonkasetwattana, Nicky Suwandi, Doug Fraser, Weiming Tang
, Michael Cassell, Hua Boonyapisomparn, Edmond Pui Hang Choi
, Lei Zhang
, Warittha Tieosapjaroen
-
A typology of HIV self-testing support systems: a scoping review
Sexual Health 21 (4) -
-
-
Collections
Collections are a curation of articles relevant to a topical research area
This collection of articles utilises data from the PrEP APPEAL Study, a cross-sectional survey of men who have sex with men and transgender women across 15 countries and territories throughout Asia. These include articles that demonstrate local needs for PrEP service delivery for specific countries and contemporary issues that transcend borders throughout Asia.
Collection Editors
Benjamin Bavinton (Kirby Institute)
Curtis Chan (Kirby Institute)
Heather-Marie Schmidt (Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS ((UNAIDS)
Nittaya Phanuphak (Institute of HIV Research and Innovation)
Kim Green (PATH)
Last Updated: 03 Jun 2025
Older adults (people 60 years and older) are often neglected in sexual health research, programs, and services. This special collection addresses this gap in the literature, drawing on a wide range of perspectives.
Collection Editors
Lianne Gonsalves (World Health Organization)
Dan Wu (Nanjing Medical University)
Eneyi Kpokiri (London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine)
Titilola Gbaja-Biamila (Washington University in St Louis)
Huachun Zou (Fudan University)
Reena Rajasuriar (University Malaya Medical Centre)
Maggie L. Syme (Mass General Brigham)
Last Updated: 21 Nov 2024
This Collection highlights some recent publications in Sexual Health on using technology to optimise sexual health. By leveraging innovations such as rapid diagnostic tools, mobile health (mHealth), self-testing and artificial-intelligence-powered tools, we can empower individuals to take control of their sexual health, reducing risks and enhancing accessibility.
All papers in this collection are free to read for three months, from 13 September 2024.
Collection Editors Jason Ong and Joseph Tucker
Last Updated: 13 Sep 2024
Emerging Sexual and Reproductive Health in Australia and New Zealand: Gaps, Challenges and Solutions
We are pleased to present this Collection on emerging topics in sexual and reproductive health in Australia and New Zealand. This collection of research articles underscores the pressing significance of addressing sexual and reproductive health matters, inviting an in-depth examination of challenges, solutions, and innovative approaches.
Collection Editors Tiffany Phillips, Eric Chow and Jacqueline Coombe
Last Updated: 14 Sep 2023
This Collection includes papers on rising rates of specific STIs in MSM, possible explanations for the rises, ways to improve surveillance and ways to prevent STIs. It also highlights a number of key papers relating to HPV-associated malignancies and potential approaches to reducing these. Fortunately for young MSM, at least Australia’s national childhood HPV vaccination program will prevent virtually all HPV-related malignancies.
Last Updated: 14 Jun 2017