Abortions in relation to age,coital frequency,and fecundity

Abortion rates show variations by age in the United States. This article addresses the question of age variations in abortions. Since the probability of pregancy is increased in direct proportion to increased coital frequency, age and coitus-specific abortion rates are calculated. Since the probability of pregnancy is related to fecundity, age and fecundity abortion rates are also calculated. When combining coital frequency and fecundity with the agespecific abortion rates, the variation by age disappears for all women except teen-agers.     

The physiology of sexual arousal in the human female: a recreational and procreational synthesis

Changes induced by human sexual arousal serve reproductive and recreational functions. The current sexual phase model (desire, excitation, orgasm, and resolution) conveys little about this duarchy. Lack of spontaneous sexual desire in a third of nonclinic females indicates that the D phase needs splitting into D1 (the spontaneous endogenous activation of desire) and D2 (desire activated by sexual excitation at and during the E phase). Attempts to link D1 with reproduction by studies monitoring it over the menstrual cycle revealed a D1 peak just before or at ovulation, but its reliability is criticized because of the poor identification of the time of ovulation. Sexual arousal initiates enhanced genital blood flow, leading to the formation of a neurogenic transudate, lubricating the vagina, partly buffering its acidity, and increasing its oxygen tension all features that enhance spermatozoal function and survival. Orgasm occurs with vaginal and uterine contractions. The latter have been misinterpreted as powering rapid sperm transport to facilitate fertilization, but such fast transport would lead to the tubal deposition of noncapacitated, incompetent spermatozoa. Vagino–cervico elevation, however, delays rapid sperm transport and allows the initiation of decoagulation and sperm capacitation before the elevation resolves. The fastest transport of spermatozoa from cervix to the fallopian tubes occurs in the nonaroused female by uterine/subendometrial smooth muscle peristalsis. There is some evidence that even this may be reduced for a time after coitus, adding to the transport delay. If a number of the changes induced by sexual arousal are inadequately expressed, sexual as well as reproductive dysfunctions could arise.     

Effects of an oral contraceptive on sexual behavior of chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes)

Behavioral and physiological effects of a combined oral contraceptive (OC) were studied in chimpanzees for comparative purposes related to (i) the ambiguity surrounding the effects of OCs on the sexuality of humans, (ii) the close biological relationship between chimpanzees and humans, especially with respect to endogenous sex hormones and sexual behavior, and (iii) the relatively greater behavioral sensitivity of the chimpanzee to changes in sex hormone levels such as those that accompany the use of OCs. Two different types of pair tests and detailed behavioral assessments were used to differentiate the hormonal effects of female behavior from social effects imposed by the male. Anogenital swelling and copulation were reduced during OC cycles, but the effect of the OC on copulation was directly related to the social and sexual relationship of the pair during natural cycles. The more compatible and more frequently copulating pairs in the natural cycles continued to copulate during the OC cycles, albeit at reduced rates, whereas the less compatible and less frequently copulating pairs ceased copulating altogether when the female received the OC. There was no independent effect of the OC on ejaculation per se. Both male and female sexual initiative were reduced in the OC cycles, but female responsiveness to male sexual solicitations and direct copulatory attempts were not affected. Data indicate that despite generally adverse effects of the OC on certain physiological and behavioral dimensions of sexuality, social factors ultimately determined the degree of response to the OC. The research on the chimpanzee serves two purposes relevant to women who use OCs: (i) it identifies three specific areas affected adversely by OCs (female genital tissues, sexual proceptivity, and sexual attractivity) and (ii) it suggests that the individuals who are most vulnerable to such effects of OCs are those with unusually high sensitivity to hormones and those with relatively low sexual activity or preexisting problems in sexual adjustment.Supported by grants HD-19060 from National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, BNS 87-08406 and BNS 91-09441 from the National Science Foundation to R.D.N. and grants RR-00165 and RR-03587 from the National Center for Research Resources, National Institutes of Health to the Yerkes Regional Primate Research Center of Emory University and KGG, respectively.     

大学生人际关系困扰心理社会影响因素分析

目的大学生人际关系困扰现状及其各种心理社会影响因素。方法随机抽取山东省3所高校700名大学生,进行人际关系综合诊断量表、艾森克人格问卷（EPQ-RSC）、自尊量表（SES）、抑郁自评量表（SDS）、焦虑自评量表（SAS）、青少年生活事件量表（ASLES）、防御方式问卷（DSQ）、父母教养方式评价量表（EMBU）以及一般情况问卷调查。应用SAS8.0软件进行累积Logistic单因素和多因素回归分析。结果大学生轻度人际关系困扰者占38.51%,严重人际关系困扰者占15.06%。影响大学生人际关系困扰的主要因素为参加集体活动情况、对别人不信任程度、社交能力、害怕死亡、神经质、生活事件、父亲情感温暖理解和父亲拒绝否认。结论大学生人际关系困扰率较高,学校、社会及家庭应注意改善大学生的学习、生活和成长环境,促进其身心健康。     

Premarital coitus and commitment among college students

In contrast to some popular speculations about a massive increase in sexual behavior labeled permissiveness without commitment, this survey of 2453 undergraduate students from four geographical areas in the United States provides data which suggest a behavioral pattern of permissiveness with commitment. This pattern of coitus with commitment was evident not only for females, but for males as well. With minor exceptions, the pattern was detected for both sexes in all four geographical regions. Speculation is made about ways in which this pattern may be one outcome of the alleged intersex convergence in sexual attitudes and behavior among American college youth. Implications are drawn for the increment of theory.This is a revised version of a paper presented at the annual meetings of the Southern Sociological Society, New Orleans, Louisiana, April 5, 1972.     

Oral contraceptives and colorectal tumors. A review of epidemiologic studies

Over the last two decades, the mortality rates of colorectal cancer in many developed countries have declined in women but not in men. One of the explanations of this difference between the genders may be the favorable influence of the spread of exogenous female hormone use (ie, oral contraceptives [OC] and hormone replacement therapy). Reduced risk in ever-users of OC was found in three of four cohort studies available on this topic, and was significant in the one based on colorectal cancer mortality. The fourth one showed no difference. Of 11 case-control studies (or groups of studies), none showed significantly elevated risk. Five reported lowered colorectal cancer risk among ever-users, with a significant inverse association in the largest investigation available. Recent OC use, more than long-duration use, seemed to be related to some risk reduction. One cohort study and three case-control investigations suggested that OC use was not related to the risk of colorectal adenomatous polyps. Thus, at present, it seems that OC use does not increase and may even have a favorable effect on either incidence or mortality of colorectal cancer.     

Current issues and available options in combined hormonal contraception

Development of hormonal contraception marked a revolutionary step in social change that has improved the lives of women and families worldwide. Since the first oral contraceptive was introduced in the 1960s, hormonal contraception has undergone various stages of advancement. Today, oral contraceptive regimens are safer and more tolerable, with equal or improved efficacy, than the early formulations. Incremental decreases in the dose of estrogens have helped to alleviate some of the unwanted estrogenic side effects of combined hormonal contraceptives. Progestogens have also evolved over time, and newer generations of progestins have minimal side effects. New delivery methods have further extended the range of options available to women. Among these, the transdermal patch and vaginal ring are widely used. This review examines available combined hormonal contraceptive options and compares them, where data are available, for efficacy, safety, cycle control, adverse events profiles and associated risks, and user preference and satisfaction. We also examine particular areas of interest, including bone mineral density, venous thrombosis and use of antiepileptic drugs.     

Women's and providers' attitudes toward menstrual suppression with extended use of oral contraceptives

The United States Food and Drug Administration approved a dedicated extended regimen of oral contraceptive (OC) pill in the fall of 2003. Few studies have explored how women or providers feel about menstrual suppression. This study describes women's and providers' attitudes toward menstrual suppression. A national sample of 1470 women and 512 providers responded to surveys asking about attitudes toward menstrual suppression. Seventy-eight percent of the women sample had never heard of menstrual suppression with OCs. Fifty-nine percent of women would be interested in not menstruating every month and one third would choose never to have a period. Only 7% of the providers thought it was physically necessary to have a period every month and 44% thought that menstrual suppression is a good idea. While 57% of providers said that their patients do not ask about extended use of OCs, 52% do prescribe them; patient request was the most common reason. Both samples thought that more research should be conducted and that the factors that would influence their decisions included long-term health effects, side effects, future fertility and cost. Results demonstrate that providers need to discuss this option with their patients.     

Reexamining factors predicting Afro-American and white American women's age at first coitus

Research identifying factors associated with ethnic differences in first coitus has been limited by methodologies and samples used. This study reexamines ethnic differences in Afro-American and white American women's age of first coitus. Demographic, socialization, and decision-making factors were examined in a series of multiple regression analyses, with the prevalence of women's child sexual abuse incidents, in order to identify variables that best predicted age of first coitus. The subjects were a multiethnic community sample of 248 women, 18 to 36 years of age, residing in Los Angeles County. Their demographic characteristics were comparable on education, marital status, the prevalence of children, and income. The results indicated that women's perceptions of their parents as more influential than peers during adolescence, and being in love and ready for sex were predictors of an older age at first intercourse. Ethnicity was not significantly associated with the strongest predictors or with first coitus. Factors that best predicted first coitus were also similar for both ethnic groups. The findings suggest that in order to examine the role of ethnicity in first coitus, differences in demographic characteristics found between black and white samples need to be controlled. Similarly, multiethnic research should include variables that are relevant to both ethnic groups, as well as abusive sexual experiences, in order to understand the multiplicity of factors predicting age at first intercourse.This research was funded by the Center for Prevention and Control of Rape, NIMH Grant, R01 MH33603 and through a Research Scientist Career Development Award, K01 MH00269.     

Creatine Supplementation in Women’s Health: A Lifespan Perspective

Despite extensive research on creatine, evidence for use among females is understudied. Creatine characteristics vary between males and females, with females exhibiting 70–80% lower endogenous creatine stores compared to males. Understanding creatine metabolism pre- and post-menopause yields important implications for creatine supplementation for performance and health among females. Due to the hormone-related changes to creatine kinetics and phosphocreatine resynthesis, supplementation may be particularly important during menses, pregnancy, post-partum, during and post-menopause. Creatine supplementation among pre-menopausal females appears to be effective for improving strength and exercise performance. Post-menopausal females may also experience benefits in skeletal muscle size and function when consuming high doses of creatine (0.3 g·kg⁻¹·d⁻¹); and favorable effects on bone when combined with resistance training. Pre-clinical and clinical evidence indicates positive effects from creatine supplementation on mood and cognition, possibly by restoring brain energy levels and homeostasis. Creatine supplementation may be even more effective for females by supporting a pro-energetic environment in the brain. The purpose of this review was to highlight the use of creatine in females across the lifespan with particular emphasis on performance, body composition, mood, and dosing strategies.     

Concordance of self-reported hormonal contraceptive use and presence of exogenous hormones in serum among African women

Objectives

Studies that rely on self-report to investigate the relationship between hormonal contraceptive use and HIV acquisition and transmission, as well as other health outcomes, could have compromised results due to misreporting. We determined the frequency of misreported hormonal contraceptive use among African women with and at risk for HIV.

A study of the capability of manufacturers of generic hormonal contraceptives in lower- and middle-income countries

PURPOSE: Studies were undertaken to assess the capability, competence and capacity of manufacturers of oral and injectable hormonal contraceptives in lower- and middle-income countries. METHODS: A qualitative study on 41 companies, which comprised in-depth interviews and facility observations, was undertaken. Also an in-depth quantitative study of 14 companies was undertaken, of which 3 have not been included in the first study. Following review of a questionnaire and other documentation, a visit was undertaken to each factory to assess staff competence, manufacturing facilities, manufacturing processes, quality management, worker safety and environmental protection. RESULTS: Of the 44 companies from 15 countries, less than 30% would meet the current Good Manufacturing Practice requirements of the World Health Organization (WHO), the Pharmaceutical Inspection Cooperation Scheme or any stringent regulatory authority; a further 20% could comply with investment and improvements in quality management. Few companies are able to develop adequate registration dossiers. CONCLUSION: There is a limited number of companies that are capable of manufacturing high-quality generic products and which can provide a complete registration dossier for use outside their home markets. It is essential that, in the future, procurement agencies only use suppliers that are prequalified by WHO for the procurement of hormonal contraceptives.     

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and hormonal contraceptives for pain relief from dysmenorrhea: a review

Background

This article is a comprehensive overview of dysmenorrhea and a systematic review of the available literature on the use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and hormonal contraceptives for the therapy and management of dysmenorrhea.

Study Design

A comprehensive search of the PubMed database for clinical trials and observational studies of dysmenorrhea treatments from 2004 onwards.

Results

Eighteen publications were identified. Ten randomized controlled trials (RCTs) assessing NSAIDs for treating primary dysmenorrhea demonstrated superior pain relief compared with placebo, but no superiority was established among different NSAIDS. Two RCTs and six nonrandomized observational or prospective studies assessing the effect of hormonal contraceptives on dysmenorrhea strongly suggest a beneficial effect for dysmenorrheic pain relief and were conducted mainly in larger populations (N=41-6169) than those in the NSAID trials (N=10-337). Ethinylestradiol/chlormadinone acetate was the only formulation that provided a more pronounced relief of dysmenorrheic pain compared with a parallel alternative or previously used hormonal contraceptive. Methodological inconsistencies were widespread between the hormonal contraceptive studies.

Conclusions

The findings of this review support the use of NSAIDs as a first-line therapy for pain relief from dysmenorrhea in women without wish for contraception. For women who wish contraception, combined oral contraceptives (COCs) are the preferential therapy for pain relief from dysmenorrhea as the additional noncontraceptive benefit of pain relief from dysmenorrhea is not linked to additional risks, eliminates the risks associated with taking NSAIDs and is a more suitable long-term option. Recommendations are made to strengthen the impact of future trials through improved methodology.     

Time series methodology in the study of sexual hormonal and behavioral cycles

This paper addresses problems in the study of sexual behavior that require the detection of cyclicity in one set of data over time and synchronicity in two sets of data over time. Time-series analysis is discussed, in particular, the use of the spectral density function and coherence. The proposed methods are then applied to the study of hormonal levels in young couples as a function of the wives' mensutrual cycles.     

Cognitive characteristics and homosexuality

There have been many studies of psychological characteristics of homosexuals, but cognitive characteristics have been relatively neglected. This study investigated the verbal intelligence of 20 homosexual males, 20 heterosexual males, and 20 females, taking into account variables likely to affect verbal ability such as social class and handedness. There were no differences in overall IQ, but group differences in verbal and nonverbal ability were marked. No other differences between the groups were found. The implications are briefly discussed.     

男男性接触者异性性行为特征及影响因素研究

目的了解男男性接触者(MSM)异性性行为的特征及其影响因素。方法在MSM活动的浴池场所,采用自愿咨询检测和问卷调查的方法对MSM进行调查。结果 342名MSM中,52.05%已婚。22.22%自评为完全同性恋,77.78%为双性恋。性取向自我评估为"完全同性恋者"的已婚率(31.57%)低于双性恋者(57.89%)(P0.05)。197名MSM曾与异性发生过性行为,123人在近六个月内与异性发生过性行为中,仅49人坚持每次使用安全套。相关影响因素分析已婚者及双性恋者更容易发生异性性行为(P0.05)。HIV和梅毒感染率分别为11.40%和16.67%,两者感染率与是否发生异性性行为均无关联(P均0.05)。近六个月感染者安全套使用率为43.34%,而未感染者为36.33%,两者差异无统计学意义(P0.05)。结论 MSM人群中发生异性性行为的比例较高,安全套使用率较低,需加大干预力度,提高安全套使用率。     

Cadmium, lead, and mercury in relation to reproductive hormones and anovulation in premenopausal women

Background: Metals can interfere with hormonal functioning by binding at the receptor site and through indirect mechanisms; thus, they may be associated with hormonal changes in premenopausal women.Objectives: We examined the associations between cadmium, lead, and mercury, and anovulation and patterns of reproductive hormones [estradiol, progesterone, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone] among 252 premenopausal women 18–44 years of age who were enrolled in the BioCycle Study in Buffalo, New York.Methods: Women were followed for up to two menstrual cycles, with serum samples collected up to eight times per cycle. Metal concentrations were determined at baseline in whole blood by inductively coupled mass spectroscopy. Marginal structural models with stabilized inverse probability weights and nonlinear mixed models with harmonic terms were used to estimate the effects of cadmium, lead, and mercury on reproductive hormone levels during the menstrual cycle and anovulation.Results: Geometric mean (interquartile range) cadmium, lead, and mercury levels were 0.29 (0.19–0.43) μg/L, 0.93 (0.68–1.20) μg/dL, and 1.03 (0.58–2.10) μg/L, respectively. We observed decreases in mean FSH with increasing cadmium [second vs. first tertile: –10.0%; 95% confidence interval (CI), –17.3% to –2.5%; third vs. first tertile: –8.3%; 95% CI, –16.0% to 0.1%] and increases in mean progesterone with increasing lead level (second vs. first tertile: 7.5%; 95% CI, 0.1–15.4%; third vs. first tertile: 6.8%; 95% CI, –0.8% to 14.9%). Metals were not significantly associated with anovulation.Conclusions: Our findings support the hypothesis that environmentally relevant levels of metals are associated with modest changes in reproductive hormone levels in healthy, premenopausal women.     

Lomens-P0 (mixed extracts of Hordeum vulgare and Chrysanthemum zawadskii) regulate the expression of factors affecting premenstrual syndrome symptoms

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVESPremenstrual syndrome (PMS) is a disorder characterized by repeated emotional, behavioral, and physical symptoms before menstruation, and the exact cause and mechanism are uncertain. Hyperprolactinemia interferes with the normal production of estrogen and progesterone, leading to PMS symptoms. Thus, we judged that the inhibition of prolactin hypersecretion could mitigate PMS symptoms.MATERIALS/METHODS Hordeum vulgare L. extract (HVE), Chrysanthemum zawadskii var. latilobum extract (CZE), and Lomens-P0 the mixture of these extracts were tested in subsequent experiments. The effect of extracts on prolactin secretion at the in vitro level was measured in GH3 cells. Nitric oxide and pro-inflammatory mediator expression were measured in RAW 264.7 cells to confirm the anti-inflammatory effect. Also, the hyperprolactinemic Institute for Cancer Research (ICR) mice model was used to measure extract effects on prolactin and hormone secretion and uterine inflammation.RESULTSAnti-inflammatory effects of and prolactin secretion suppress by HVE and CZE were confirmed through in vitro experiments (P < 0.05). Treatment with Lomens-P0 inhibited prolactin secretion (P < 0.05) and restored normal sex hormone secretion in the hyperprolactinemia mice model. In addition, extracts significantly inhibited the expression of pro-inflammatory biomarkers, including interleukin-1β, and -6, tumor necrosis factor-α, inducible nitric oxide synthase, and cyclooxygenase-2 (P < 0.01). We used high-performance liquid chromatography analyses to identify tricin and chlorogenic acid as the respective components of HVE and CZE that inhibit prolactin secretion. The Lomens-P0, which includes tricin and chlorogenic acid, is expected to be effective in improving PMS symptoms in the human body.CONCLUSIONSThe Lomens-P0 suppressed the prolactin secretion in hyperprolactinemia mice, normalized the sex hormone imbalance, and significantly suppressed the expression of inflammatory markers in uterine tissue. This study suggests that Lomens-P0 may have the potential to prevent or remedy materials to PMS symptoms.