Sexual Health in the News May 31 - June 6
June 06, 2024
NCSH in the News
The U.S. Is Facing an 'Out of Control' STI Epidemic, Experts Warn – ScienceAlert
The U.S. is facing a surge in STIs, particularly syphilis, with congenital syphilis cases rising sharply, prompting urgent calls for increased public health funding and action. NCSH members NCSDDC, NACCHO, and ASHA are mentioned.
Other News This Week
Senate Republicans Block Bill to Protect Access to Contraception – NBC News
Senate Republicans blocked a Democratic-led bill to protect access to contraception, arguing it was unnecessary, while Democrats viewed it as a crucial step to safeguard reproductive rights.
CDC Supports Use of Antibiotic as 'Morning After Pill' to Stop STDs – U.S. News & World Report
CDC now recommends that specific populations who are at higher risk of contracting STIs take the antibiotic doxycycline as a "morning-after pill" to reduce the incidence of syphilis, chlamydia, and gonorrhea.
NIH Launches 2 Clinical Trials Testing HIV Drug on Women, Other Minority Groups – Yahoo! News
NIH has launched two clinical trials to test the HIV prevention drug Lenacapavir in underrepresented groups, including cisgender women and intravenous drug users, to assess its safety and efficacy.
Cancer Risk Among LGBTQ+ Population Higher Amid Discrimination – USA Today
LGBTQ+ individuals face higher cancer risks and significant barriers to detection and treatment due to higher rates of smoking, alcohol use, obesity, and discrimination in healthcare settings.
A Long-Awaited Birth Control Option for Men May Be Closer to Reality – CNN
Researchers are advancing a promising male birth control gel that suppresses sperm production with minimal side effects, now in clinical trials with encouraging results.
How to Navigate Dating When You Have IBD – TIME
Article explores tips and experiences for dating with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), covering how to disclose your condition, manage symptoms, and maintain intimacy and confidence in relationships.
When Libido Is a Burden, Some Men Turn to Unproven Treatments – Salon
Men are increasingly turning to unproven treatments and online communities to lower their libido, facing misleading advice and stigma from both the internet and healthcare providers.
Celibacy Is in, Just Ask Lenny Kravitz, Julia Fox, and Gen Z – Business Insider
Celibacy is gaining popularity among celebrities and Gen Z, who cite reasons ranging from self-care and political protest to avoiding past relationship trauma and societal pressures.
Cadence OTC Sweeps Plan B, Ella with a $20 Morning After Pill – New York Post
Cadence OTC has introduced a Morning After Pill, offering a cheaper alternative to established brands like Plan B and Ella, to address accessibility issues in reproductive healthcare.
Media Inquiries
For general media inquiries about sexual health topics and/or to schedule an interview with one of our experts, please contact Susan Gilbert, NCSH Co-Director, at
susan.gilbert@altarum.org