{"title":"Association between antenatal depression and quality of life in pregnant women with hypertensive disorders of pregnancy: Mediating effects of pregnancy stress and psychological resilience.","authors":"Yan -Gui, Daiya Liao, Haiqing Huang, Liyi Zhang","doi":"10.29063/ajrh2026/v30i17.11","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.29063/ajrh2026/v30i17.11","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP) are associated with an increased risk of antenatal depression (AD), but the pathways linking AD to quality of life (QoL) remain insufficiently understood. In this single-center retrospective study, 301 pregnant women with HDP completed the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS), Perceived Stress Scale, Resilience Scale, and 36-Item Short Form Health Survey (SF-36). Correlation and linear regression analyses were performed, and a chain mediation model (PROCESS Model 6; 5,000 bootstrap samples) was tested with adjustment for age, education, and adverse pregnancy history. The mean EPDS score was 7.17±3.48, and 26.25% exceeded the clinical cut-off (>9.5). AD was significantly associated with poorer QoL (total effect = -0.788, P<0.001). Pregnancy stress and psychological resilience jointly mediated this association, with indirect effects accounting for 53.7% of the total effect via stress (30.0%), resilience (17.1%), and the stress→resilience chain pathway (6.7%). In women with mild preeclampsia (n=123), the total indirect effect increased to 70.0%. We conclude that antenatal depression appears to impair quality of life in women with hypertensive disease of pregnancy largely through heightened pregnancy stress and reduced resilience, supporting integrated interventions that address depressive symptoms, stress management, and resilience enhancement.</p>","PeriodicalId":7551,"journal":{"name":"African journal of reproductive health","volume":"30 17","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":1.0,"publicationDate":"2026-09-17","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"148987601","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Boitshwarelo Km Ngake, Mluleki Tsawe, Ishmael Kalule-Sabiti, Frank Ofosu-Asante, Kolletsane Motshehare, Stephina K Mbele, Leonard Marevhula
{"title":"Predictors of contraceptive use at first sexual intercourse among adolescent girls in Ratlou local municipality, South Africa.","authors":"Boitshwarelo Km Ngake, Mluleki Tsawe, Ishmael Kalule-Sabiti, Frank Ofosu-Asante, Kolletsane Motshehare, Stephina K Mbele, Leonard Marevhula","doi":"10.29063/ajrh2026/v30i17.2","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.29063/ajrh2026/v30i17.2","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>Adolescent girls are vulnerable to unintended pregnancies, unsafe abortions, and sexually transmitted infections when contraception is not used at sexual debut. Understanding the factors influencing contraceptive use at first sex is important for informing adolescent sexual and reproductive health and rights interventions, especially in rural settings where there is limited evidence. The study adopted a cross-sectional design. The sample of 290 adolescent girls was drawn from nine selected villages in the Ratlou local municipality of South Africa. Bivariate analysis, with a chi-square test, and binary logistic regression were conducted. Overall, 41.0% of adolescent girls reported contraceptive use at first sex. The regression model revealed that secondary education [AOR=0.40], a working household head [AOR=0.47], having first sex at 14-16 [AOR=0.16] and at 17-19 [AOR=0.39], ever use of dual methods of contraception [AOR=0.21], and living in Kraaipan village [AOR=0.18] were associated with lower odds of contraceptive use at first sex. Strengthening school-based sexual and reproductive health and rights education, improving parent-adolescent communication, and ensuring equitable access to youth-friendly services are important for improving contraceptive use at first sexual intercourse among adolescents in Ratlou local municipality.</p>","PeriodicalId":7551,"journal":{"name":"African journal of reproductive health","volume":" 17","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":1.0,"publicationDate":"2026-09-17","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"148982176","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Trends and demographic patterns of HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis uptake in Nigeria.","authors":"Rui Bian","doi":"10.29063/ajrh2026/v30i17.3","DOIUrl":"10.29063/ajrh2026/v30i17.3","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>This study examined the trends and demographic patterns of HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) uptake in Nigeria from 2020 to 2024 using secondary programme data extracted from the national HIV prevention and treatment information system of Birni Kebbi general hospital, Nigeria. A retrospective descriptive design was employed, with data disaggregated by marital status, risk group, age, and gender. Descriptive statistics and trend visualizations were used for analysis. Findings revealed a distinct expansion in PrEP uptake between 2020 and 2022, followed by a decline from 2023 to 2024 across all demographic categories. Uptake was overwhelmingly concentrated among married individuals and serodiscordant couples throughout the five-year period, reflecting strong integration of PrEP within partner testing and treatment-linked referral pathways. Conversely, unmarried persons, younger age groups, and sex workers were minimally represented, indicating significant prevention gaps. Gender analysis showed higher male uptake during the expansion phase and slightly greater female stability in subsequent years. Age distributions were dominated by individuals aged 30-49 and 50+. In conclusion, the findings demonstrate that PrEP delivery in Nigeria remains marriage-centric and treatment-linked, highlighting the need for broader risk-based and community-oriented PrEP strategies to optimize preventive impact.</p>","PeriodicalId":7551,"journal":{"name":"African journal of reproductive health","volume":" 17","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":1.0,"publicationDate":"2026-09-17","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"148982120","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Fotarisman Zaluchu, Farold G Zaluchu, Finley Ef Zaluchu, Mira My Zendrato
{"title":"Research trends on intimate partner violence against women during the COVID-19 pandemic: A bibliometric analysis and thematic research opportunities.","authors":"Fotarisman Zaluchu, Farold G Zaluchu, Finley Ef Zaluchu, Mira My Zendrato","doi":"10.29063/ajrh2026/v30i17.4","DOIUrl":"10.29063/ajrh2026/v30i17.4","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) against women constituted a profound humanitarian tragedy, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. Consequently, mapping the scholarly literature produced on this topic is essential. This study aimed to map existing publications on IPV during the pandemic to develop a thematic template to inform post-pandemic actions and preparedness for future crises. A total of 425 documents met the eligibility criteria. The database search indicated an annual growth rate of 17.08% across these documents, with an average of 22.45 citations per document and an international co-authorship rate of 29.41%. IPV-related research featured 10 highly influential documents, while BMC Public Health emerged as the most productive journal. The United States was the largest contributor, with the University of California being the most prominent affiliated institution. Across the five assessed periods, the dominant motor themes included mental health, depression, and social support.</p>","PeriodicalId":7551,"journal":{"name":"African journal of reproductive health","volume":"30 17","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":1.0,"publicationDate":"2026-09-17","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"148982143","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Fitrah Reynaldi, Dumilah Ayuningtyas, Purnawan Junadi, Prastuti Soewondo, Aripin Ahmad
{"title":"Explaining the slow decline in child stunting: A multi-stakeholder qualitative case study from Sabang, Indonesia.","authors":"Fitrah Reynaldi, Dumilah Ayuningtyas, Purnawan Junadi, Prastuti Soewondo, Aripin Ahmad","doi":"10.29063/ajrh2026/v30i17.10","DOIUrl":"10.29063/ajrh2026/v30i17.10","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>Stunting remains a major public health problem, particularly in Africa and Asia, including Indonesia. Sabang City recorded the slowest stunting reduction in Aceh Province (AARR: -5.20%). This qualitative case study examined factors underlying the slow decline in stunting prevalence in Sabang City. The study involved 21 informants consisting of policymakers, health workers, religious leaders, and traditional leaders. Data were collected through in-depth interviews, observations, and document reviews, while quantitative data on stunting prevalence trends were obtained from surveys conducted by the Indonesian Ministry of Health between 2013 and 2024. The findings indicate that the slow reduction in stunting prevalence in Sabang is influenced by migration-induced distortion of stunting indicators, fragmented accountability, and differences in data coverage across national survey instruments. The pattern of stunting in Sabang reflects contextual and structural dynamics. This study suggests that accelerating stunting reduction in Sabang requires migration-sensitive interventions, strengthened multisectoral collaboration, and harmonized data systems.</p>","PeriodicalId":7551,"journal":{"name":"African journal of reproductive health","volume":"30 17","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":1.0,"publicationDate":"2026-09-17","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"148987656","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Effects of different hysteroscopic polypectomy techniques on postoperative recovery and quality of life among women with endometrial polyps.","authors":"Yan Jiang, Biao Yang, Yun Li, Yan Wang","doi":"10.29063/ajrh2026/v30i16.6","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.29063/ajrh2026/v30i16.6","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>This retrospective study aimed to compare the effects of two hysteroscopic procedures-cold knife resection (HCK) and electrosurgical resection (HER)-on postoperative recovery and quality of life in patients with endometrial polyps (EMP). A total of 120 patients were included, with 53 in the HCK group and 67 in the HER group. The study assessed operative time, intraoperative bleeding, hospital stay, endometrial thickness recovery, complications, recurrence, and quality of life using Short Form 36 Health Survey Questionnaire (SF-36) scores. Results showed that HER had shorter operative times, less bleeding, and quicker recovery, but HCK led to better endometrial thickness recovery. Both procedures were similarly effective in treating EMP, with no significant difference in complication or recurrence rates. At six months postoperatively, HER patients reported significantly better quality of life scores. Multivariate regression identified HER as an independent factor for favorable postoperative quality of life. We conclude that while both methods are safe and effective, HER is superior for faster recovery and improved quality of life. In contrast, HCK appears to be more suitable for women with fertility concerns due to better endometrial preservation. Individualized treatment selection based on patient needs is recommended.</p>","PeriodicalId":7551,"journal":{"name":"African journal of reproductive health","volume":"30 16","pages":"71-80"},"PeriodicalIF":1.0,"publicationDate":"2026-08-31","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"148863540","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Men's perspectives on termination of pregnancy in South Africa: A narrative review.","authors":"Tiisetso A Chuene, Banele N Siboza","doi":"10.29063/ajrh2026/v30i16.12","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.29063/ajrh2026/v30i16.12","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>This narrative review synthesises evidence on South African men's perspectives, experiences, and involvement in termination of pregnancy (TOP), an area that remains underexplored in sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) research and policy. A systematic search from PubMed, EBSCOHost, Web of Science, Sabinet, Scopus, and Google Scholar identified ten English-language studies published between 2013 and 2025. Data were analysed using thematic synthesis resulting in emergence of four themes: attitudes, beliefs, and knowledge regarding TOP; relational and socioeconomic contexts shaping men's experiences; emotional and psychological responses; and roles in decision-making and support. Limited reproductive health knowledge, socio-economic pressures, dominant norms of masculinity, and marginalisation within healthcare settings constrained men's ability to provide effective support. The review highlights a critical gap in African SRHR practice and underscores the need for gender-sensitive approaches that recognise men as emotional stakeholders while safeguarding women's reproductive autonomy. (Afr J Reprod Health.</p>","PeriodicalId":7551,"journal":{"name":"African journal of reproductive health","volume":"30 16","pages":"132-146"},"PeriodicalIF":1.0,"publicationDate":"2026-08-31","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"148862778","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Multilevel modelling of factors influencing eight or more antenatal care visits among women of reproductive age in South Africa.","authors":"Mashapa M Malatji, Mluleki Tsawe","doi":"10.29063/ajrh2026/v30i16.2","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.29063/ajrh2026/v30i16.2","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>Globally, thousands of women die due to pregnancy-related complications. The World Health Organization recommends at least eight or more antenatal visits during pregnancy to reduce infant and maternal mortality. This study examined the factors influencing eight or more antenatal visits among South African women aged 15-49, using data from the 2016 South Africa Demographic and Health Survey (weighted sample of 3036 women). A two-level binary logistic regression model was used to identify the factors determining the use of eight or more antenatal visits. The findings revealed a low use (17.1%) of eight or more antenatal care visits. Age at birth, birth order, population group, marital status, employment status, media exposure, place of residence, household wealth and province were statistically associated with eight or more antenatal care visits. Women whose age at birth was 20-34, those exposed to the media, those from rich households, and those from the Western Cape had higher odds of eight or more antenatal care visits. Media campaigns may play a valuable role in informing women about the advantages of attending the recommended antenatal care visits.</p>","PeriodicalId":7551,"journal":{"name":"African journal of reproductive health","volume":"30 16","pages":"18-30"},"PeriodicalIF":1.0,"publicationDate":"2026-08-31","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"148862870","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Ethics, empathy, and empowerment: the role of ideological and political education in preparing medical students for adolescent female reproductive health care.","authors":"Shouwei Guo, Juan Yan","doi":"10.29063/ajrh2026/v30i16.8","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.29063/ajrh2026/v30i16.8","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>This study explores how ideological and political education contributes to equipping medical students with ethical sensitivity in providing adolescent reproductive healthcare. Using a quantitative cross-sectional design, the research surveyed Chinese medical students through a structured questionnaire assessing their exposure to such education, along with measures of ethical competence, empathy, empowerment orientation, and preparedness for care delivery. Data analysis encompassed descriptive statistics, correlation assessments, regression analysis, and mediation modeling. Results indicated a positive link between ideological and political education and enhanced preparedness for adolescent care. Ethical competence, empathy, and empowerment orientation served as mediators in this relationship, with empathy emerging as the most significant mediator. The findings highlight the importance of integrating values-based training into medical curricula to enhance students' readiness for ethical, gender-sensitive, and adolescent-centered care. This approach aligns strongly with the objectives of Sustainable Development Goals 3 and 5.</p>","PeriodicalId":7551,"journal":{"name":"African journal of reproductive health","volume":"30 16","pages":"93-103"},"PeriodicalIF":1.0,"publicationDate":"2026-08-31","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"148863512","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Qualitative assessment of maternal healthcare services: Infrastructure, staffing, and quality of care in Lejweleputswa District Municipality, South Africa.","authors":"Simbarashe Magaisa, Nirmala Dorasamy","doi":"10.29063/ajrh2026/v30i16.3","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.29063/ajrh2026/v30i16.3","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>Maternal healthcare performance varies widely across South Africa, shaped by uneven resources, staffing constraints, and service-delivery pressures. This study explored how healthcare providers experience the conditions that influence maternal care, focusing on infrastructure, staffing, and quality-of-care processes. Using a qualitative case study design, semi-structured interviews were conducted with nurses, midwives, and medical officers working in public-sector maternity services. Data were analysed using an interpretative phenomenological approach. Participants described persistent infrastructure limitations, high workloads linked to inadequate staffing, and challenges in maintaining consistent, timely care. They also highlighted inconsistencies in guideline adherence and communication barriers that affected patient experience. These intersecting factors varied across facilities but collectively shaped the day-to-day delivery of maternal services. The findings underscore the need for context-sensitive strategies that address resource gaps, strengthen staffing capacity, and support more reliable quality-of-care practices.</p>","PeriodicalId":7551,"journal":{"name":"African journal of reproductive health","volume":"30 16","pages":"31-41"},"PeriodicalIF":1.0,"publicationDate":"2026-08-31","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"148862984","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}