Intervention to Decrease Risk for Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) and the Associated Negative Reproductive Health Outcomes in Women Aboard Ships: A Biophysical Approach

摘要

Unintended pregnancies (UIPs) and STDs with their sequelae of ectopic pregnancy continue to be epidemic among active duty enlisted women. Such reproductive health problems result in major morbidity among affected women as well as posing a potential threat to combat readiness. UIPs and STDs result from complex interactions between biological and behavioral factors. The ultimate control in preventing such morbidities must rely on both behavioral and biologic strategies. The primary aim of the project is to develop, implement, and evaluate an intervention which emphasizes correct information, motivation and behavioral skills building (IMB Model) coupled with non-invasive screening using urine- based amplified DNA techniques to detect C. trachomatis and N. gonorrhoeae and urine-based pregnancy testing. A randomized controlled trial design was employed to evaluate the impact of the intervention on the experimental group using both self-report questionnaires (psychosocial and behavioral risk factors) and results from the STD and pregnancy screening tests as measures. The control intervention consisted of a prevention program focusing on nutrition, breast cancer, fitness and injury prevention Questionnaires and biologic testing were completed at baseline, 24 weeks, 9-12 months post intervention. Participants (N=2157) were women enrolled in recruit training for the U.S. Marine Corps.