Sexual Health in the News October 18 – October 24
Oct 24, 2024
NCSH in the News
What Is Okra Water and Is It Good for Your Health? – The Guardian
Okra water is popular for claims about improving vaginal health and easing childbirth, but there’s no scientific evidence to support these effects. NCSH arranged the interview with Dr. Maureen Slattery.
Can Breast Implants Make You Sick? – The Guardian
Breast implant illness refers to autoimmune symptoms linked to breast implants, with some patients finding relief after removal, though research is incomplete and ongoing. NCSH arranged the interview with Dr. Tameca Harris-Jackson.
The Problem with Modern Day Sex and Love Trends – Psychology Today
Trends like "boysober," "the ick," and "celibacy era" that promote disconnection and avoidance in relationships has prompted a discussion with experts about fostering meaningful connections. Results from a Kinsey Institute survey, an NCSH member, are featured.
Other News This Week
U.S. Infant Mortality Rates Increased After Roe v. Wade Was Overturned - People
A study finds that U.S. infant mortality rates rose overall and particularly for infants with disabilities, since Roe v. Wade was overturned, largely due to restricted abortion access and the inability to terminate high-risk pregnancies.
Misconceptions Can Keep Women from Popular Birth Control Methods – USA Today
The U.S. birth control debate stems from misinformation linking it to abortion, resulting in restricted access in some states, despite medical consensus that it prevents pregnancy without ending existing ones.
Women In States with Bans Are Getting Abortions at Similar Rates as Under Roe, Report Says – ABC News
Women in states with abortion bans obtained the procedure at similar rates as before Roe v. Wade was overturned by traveling out of state or using telehealth to access abortion pills.
Trans Candidates Are Running on A Slew of Issues Besides Anti-LGBTQ Bills – NBC News
Transgender candidates for state legislative seats are driven by concerns over anti-LGBTQ bills threatening gender-affirming healthcare, while also focusing on broader issues like affordable housing and climate change.
Biden Birth Control Plan Proposes Free Condoms, Plan B - Newsweek
The Biden administration's rule would allow millions to access over-the-counter contraception, like condoms and birth control pills, without cost or prescription, boosting reproductive health care access.
Why People Who Aren’t Pregnant Are Ordering Abortion Medication. - Slate
In the wake of Roe v. Wade's fall, more people in the U.S. are ordering abortion pills in advance to prepare for unwanted pregnancies and potential medical needs due to restrictive abortion laws.
Love Is Blind Is Getting Political—and I Want More - Glamour
The latest season of Love Is Blind addresses reproductive rights, with cast members discussing birth control and family planning, highlighting the importance of these issues in modern relationships.
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