Impact of COVID-19 on STI and HIV risks among adolescent girls and young women
Increased risk of STI and HIV among adolescent girls and young women due to COVID-19 and pandemic mitigation: Biological, behavioral, and psychosocial mediators
This study looks at how the COVID-19 pandemic has impacted the risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and HIV among teenage girls and young women in Kenya, focusing on how using menstrual cups might affect their health and exploring the stress and challenges they face, all to find better ways to keep them safe and healthy.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Rush University Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10867276 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how the COVID-19 pandemic and related lockdowns have affected the risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and HIV among adolescent girls and young women in Kenya. It focuses on a cohort of secondary school girls, examining the effects of menstrual cups on their vaginal microbiome and the prevalence of bacterial vaginosis and STIs. The study also explores the psychosocial and behavioral factors, including stress and violence, that may influence these health outcomes. By understanding these dynamics, the research aims to identify effective interventions to reduce STI and HIV risks in this vulnerable population.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adolescent girls and young women aged 15-19 living in areas affected by COVID-19, particularly those experiencing high levels of stress and interpersonal violence.
Not a fit: Patients who are not adolescent girls or young women, or those who do not reside in the study area, may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for preventing STIs and HIV among adolescent girls and young women, particularly in the context of pandemic-related challenges.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has indicated that psychosocial factors significantly impact STI and HIV risks, suggesting that this study's approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Chicago, United States
- Rush University Medical Center — Chicago, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mehta, Supriya Dinesh — Rush University Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Mehta, Supriya Dinesh
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.