Sexual function may be impaired during pregnancy in adolescent women

Prevalence of sexual dysfunctions is reported as high as 70% during pregnancy. However, there are limited data about the burden of sexual dysfunction in pregnant adolescents. This cross-sectional study was conducted in the outpatient antenatal clinic of our institution between October and December 2014. The total female sexual function index scores and domain scores were compared between adolescent and adult pregnant women. A total of 121 pregnant women participated in the study. Of those women, 29 (24.0%) were 21 years old or younger (Group 1), whereas the remaining were older (Group 2). The sexual dysfunction ratios were 41.4% and 23.9% in Groups 1 and 2, respectively (p = 0.068). The desire (3.29 vs. 2.79, p = 0.024) and arousal (3.48 vs. 2.71, p = 0.008) domain scores of adolescent pregnant women were significantly higher whereas the remaining domain scores (i.e. lubrication, orgasm, satisfaction and pain) were not significantly different. The adolescent women seem to be more prone to sexual dysfunctions during the course of pregnancy, especially in the third trimester. The health care providers should consider discussing the sexual life during pregnancy as a part of routine antenatal visit to improve sexual function and quality of life, especially among adolescent pregnant population.     

Bridging the Gap: establishing the necessary infrastructure and knowledge for teaching and research in neuroscience in Africa

Advances in neuroscience research over the last few decades have increased our understanding of how individual neurons acquire their specific properties and assemble into complex circuits, and how these circuits are affected in disease. One of the important motives driving neuroscience research is the development of new scientific techniques and interdisciplinary cooperation. Compared to developed countries, many countries on the African continent are confronted with poor facilities, lack of funding or career development programs for neuroscientists, all of which deter young scientists from taking up neuroscience as a career choice. This article highlights some steps that are being taken to promote neuroscience education and research in Africa.