The goal of this supplemental issue of Women's Health Issues is to present the evidence on seven topics that are pertinent to the health of active duty military women (unplanned pregnancy, cervical cancer, sexually transmitted infections, adjustment disorders, obstetrics, breastfeeding, and sleep) as revealed by scoping review methods. The findings of each scoping review were synthesized within the framework of a social ecological model for military women's health (SEM-MWH), which allowed the authors to identify potential areas of research and local, organizational, or national policies that could improve the health of military women.
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Promoting military women's health policy development through the lens of the social ecological model for military women's health
APA Citation:
Trego, L. L. (2021). Promoting military women's health policy development through the lens of the social ecological model for military women's health. Women’s Health Issues, 31, S2–S10. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.whi.2020.09.005
Focus:
Physical health
Branch of Service:
Multiple branches
Military Affiliation:
Active Duty
Population:
Adulthood (18 yrs & older)
Young adulthood (18 - 29 yrs)
Thirties (30 - 39 yrs)
Middle age (40 - 64 yrs)
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Research
Trego, Lori L.
2021
2 Health profiles of military women and the impact of combat-related injury
Health profiles of military women and the impact of combat-related injury
APA Citation:
MacGregor, A. J., Zouris, J. M., Dougherty, A. L., & Dye, J. L. (2021). Health profiles of military women and the impact of combat-related injury. Women’s Health Issues, 31(4), 392–398. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.whi.2021.03.009
Focus:
Deployment
Physical health
Branch of Service:
Army
Air Force
Marine Corps
Navy
Multiple branches
Military Affiliation:
Active Duty
Population:
Adulthood (18 yrs & older)
Young adulthood (18 - 29 yrs)
Thirties (30 - 39 yrs)
Middle age (40 - 64 yrs)
Share the article
Research
MacGregor, Andrew J.; Zouris, James M.; Dougherty, Amber L.; Dye, Judy L.
2021
Purpose The role of women in the United States military is expanding. Women are now authorized to serve in all military occupations, including special operations and frontline combat units, which places them at increased risk of combat exposure and injury. Little is known regarding the impact of these injuries on the health of military women. Methods We conducted a retrospective matched cohort study of women service members who were injured during combat operations in Iraq and Afghanistan. Injured women were individually matched to non-injured controls at a 1:4 ratio. Medical diagnostic codes were abstracted from outpatient encounters in electronic health records, and hierarchical clustering was conducted to identify clusters of diagnostic codes, termed “health profiles.” Conditional logistic regression was used to determine whether combat-related injury predicted membership in the profiles. Results The study sample included 590 injured women and 2360 non-injured controls. Cluster analysis identified six post-deployment health profiles: low morbidity, anxiety/headache, joint disorders, mixed musculoskeletal, pregnancy-related, and multimorbidity. Combat-related injury predicted membership in the anxiety/headache (odds ratio, 1.73; 95% confidence interval, 1.38–2.16) and multimorbidity (odds ratio, 3.43; 95% confidence interval, 2.65–4.43) profiles. Conclusions Combat-related injury is associated with adverse post-deployment health profiles among military women, and women with these profiles may experience increased health care burden. As future conflicts will likely see a greater number of women with combat exposure and injury, health outcomes research among military women is paramount for the purposes of medical planning and resource allocation.
An education intervention to improve knowledge of post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms and treatments among U.S. women service members and veterans
APA Citation:
Proctor, D. M., Emmons, K. R., & Scannell-Desch, E. (2023). An education intervention to improve knowledge of post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms and treatments among U.S. women service members and veterans. Military Medicine, 188(1-2), 368-373. https://doi.org/10.1093/milmed/usab514
Focus:
Programming
Trauma
Veterans
Mental health
Branch of Service:
Multiple branches
Military Affiliation:
Veteran
Reserve
Guard
Share the article
Research
Proctor, Denise M.; Emmons, Kevin R.; Scannell-Desch, Elizabeth
2023
Introduction Due to decades of prolonged combat operations, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is widely discussed and generally well conceptualized. The objective of this study was to determine if an educational program on the signs and symptoms of PTSD and an explanation of the current treatments utilized by the Veterans Administration is effective in increasing the knowledge levels of women service members and veterans, leading to seeking treatment. Materials and Methods The design of this study was a quantitative pretest/posttest interventional study. The educational program was conducted at a Senior Citizen Center. The population was a purposive sample of 44 women service members and veterans from a military base in New Jersey. A 25-item PTSD Knowledge Questionnaire developed for the earlier Web-Based Post-traumatic Stress Disorder Education for Military Family Members (2012) study was used as the pretest and posttest. Results The knowledge level of PTSD among women service members and veterans who participated in this study was significantly higher after completing the educational program with 43% indicating that they would seek mental health care. Conclusions Women service members and veterans were ill-informed on the signs, symptoms, and treatment options of PTSD. If the results of this survey are an indicator of the knowledge level of women service members in broader populations, there is a need to restructure how those who are at risk of developing PTSD are educated. Through better educational programs, women and men could seek care with increasingly favorable long-term outcomes.
Making military and veteran women (in)visible: The continuity of gendered experiences in military-to-civilian transition
APA Citation:
Eichler, M. (2021). Making military and veteran women (in)visible: The continuity of gendered experiences in military-to-civilian transition. Journal of Military, Veteran, and Family Health, 8(s1), 36-45. https://doi.org/10.3138/jmvfh-2021-0077
Focus:
Veterans
Branch of Service:
International Military
Air Force
Army
Navy
Multiple branches
Military Affiliation:
Veteran
Reserve
Population:
Adulthood (18 yrs & older)
Young adulthood (18 - 29 yrs)
Thirties (30 - 39 yrs)
Middle age (40 - 64 yrs)
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Research
Eichler, Maya
2021
LAY SUMMARY This study explores how gender and sex shape the military-to-civilian transition (MCT) for women. Thirty-three Canadian women Veterans were interviewed about their military service and post-military life. MCT research often emphasizes discontinuities between military and civilian life, but women’s accounts highlight continuities in gendered experiences. Military women are expected to fit the male norm and masculine ideal of the military member during service, but they are rarely recognized as Veterans after service. Women experience invisibility as military member and Veterans and simultaneously hypervisibility as (ex)military women who do not fit military or civilian gender norms. Gendered expectations of women as spouses and mothers exert an undue burden on them as serving members and as Veterans undergoing MCT. Women encounter care and support systems set up on the normative assumption of the military and Veteran man supported by a female spouse. The study findings point to a needed re-design of military and Veteran systems to remove sex and gender biases and better respond to the sex- and gender-specific MCT needs of women.
5 Menstrual practices in operational military women
Menstrual practices in operational military women
APA Citation:
Phillips, A. K., & Wilson, C. (2021). Menstrual practices in operational military women. Military Medicine, 186(Suppl. 1), 767–774. https://doi.org/10.1093/milmed/usaa345
Focus:
Physical health
Deployment
Branch of Service:
Air Force
Military Affiliation:
Active Duty
Population:
Adulthood (18 yrs & older)
Young adulthood (18 - 29 yrs)
Thirties (30 - 39 yrs)
Middle age (40 - 64 yrs)
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Research
Phillips, Angela K. N. C. Usaf; Wilson, Candy N. C. Usaf
2021
Introduction Women’s sex-specific health care and hygiene needs are part of military readiness for female service members and important for their leaders to ensure unit readiness. Promoting readiness that includes women’s health needs contributes to the overall strength of the military. Because women comprise over 15% of today’s military force and growing in proportion, readiness for military women has obtained increased attention in research and health practice. Menstruation is a sex-specific experience that must be part of the consideration for individual military readiness. Little research has explored the in-garrison readiness of women, particularly for women in high operations tempo settings, when considering menstruation management. The specific aim of this study was to explore how active duty U.S. Air Force women manage their menstruation while living day-to-day in a military culture. Methods A qualitatively driven mixed-method design using ethnography was conducted. Data collection included multiple sources: observations, questionnaire data, interviews, and focus groups among a group of Air Force Security Forces women. Results Data from questionnaires (n = 16) and interviews or focus groups (n = 10) were analyzed. Themes included knowledge, cop culture, and support. Comprehensive findings demonstrated that women were knowledgeable about menstruation and menstrual suppression, but did not practice it. No women in the study were suppressing menstruation. Military culture had minimal impact on menstrual practices, whereas knowledge, attitudes, and beliefs gained from family and friends was more influential on how women in this study managed menstruation. Conclusions This study was the first to use a qualitatively driven mixed-method design to explore military women’s menstrual practices in an operational setting. This study can be used in collaboration with other evidence to promote health of military women through clinical education and support in command environments. Future research should consider other operational settings where women are expected to maintain a high level of readiness.
6 Suicide in U.S. women veterans: An interpersonal theory perspective on suicide prevention policies
Suicide in U.S. women veterans: An interpersonal theory perspective on suicide prevention policies
APA Citation:
Schuman, D.L, Cerel, J., & Praetorius, R.T. Suicide in U.S. women veterans: An interpersonal theory perspective on suicide prevention policies. Social Work in Public Health, 34(5), 418-429. https://doi.org/10.1080/19371918.2019.1616028
Focus:
Mental health
Veterans
Programming
Branch of Service:
Multiple branches
Military Affiliation:
Veteran
Active Duty
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Research
Schuman, Donna L.; Cerel, Julie; Praetorius, Regina T.
2019
Increases in suicide rates for U.S. women Service Members and Veterans have emerged as a public health issue of great concern. Women Veterans are more likely than their civilian counterparts to die by suicide, and rates of suicide for women Veterans are rising faster than rates for male Veterans. Given higher rates of suicide in combat-exposed males and increased rates of suicide associated with military deployment for women, the expansion of women into direct combat roles may further escalate their rates of suicide. The interpersonal theory of suicide provides a framework for the examination of women Veterans’ risk factors and how implementation of policy provisions can more effectively ameliorate suicide risk. Recent suicide prevention policy initiatives that target women Veterans’ unique needs are important steps; however, suicide prevention efforts should address specific risk factors contributing to thwarted belongingness, perceived burdensomeness, and the acquired capability for suicide in Veteran women.
RE: Uniformed Services University women’s enrollment and career choices in military medicine: A retrospective descriptive analysis
APA Citation:
MacKinnon, L. R. M. (2019). RE: Uniformed Services University women’s enrollment and career choices in military medicine: A retrospective descriptive analysis. Military Medicine, 184(9-10), 194. https://doi.org/10.1093/milmed/usz281
Focus:
Programming
Branch of Service:
Multiple branches
Military Affiliation:
Active Duty
Population:
Adulthood (18 yrs & older)
Young adulthood (18 - 29 yrs)
Thirties (30 - 39 yrs)
Middle age (40 - 64 yrs)
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Research
MacKinnon, Rene M.
2019
To the Editor: RE: Uniformed Services University Women’s Enrollment and Career Choices in Military Medicine: A Retrospective Descriptive Analysis As both a recent graduate from the Uniformed Services University (USU) School of Medicine and a woman, I appreciated Cervero et al.’s article regarding USU women’s enrollment trends and career choices.1 This study highlighted not only the unique position that women have in military medicine but also their successes in board certifications as well. The increasing enrollment of women at USU is encouraging to future cohorts and the continuation of inclusion of women in military medicine. As an undergraduate at a civilian state university applying to medical schools, one of my initial hesitations to matriculating at USU was the disproportionate gender ratio compared to civilian schools. However, I am grateful I did not let that hesitation deter me, as I value the education and dedication to the mission that USU offered greatly. Despite representing a smaller proportion of military medicine compared to our male counterparts, this study emphasized the higher percentage of women in certain practicing specialties compared to the civilian medical community. Although more studies are indicated, anecdotally I believe that this speaks volumes to the environment that military medicine fosters, encouraging students to apply and practice in a multitude of diverse specialties and the ability to network throughout Military Treatment Facilities across the globe. The women of USU’s class of 2019, among decades of USU graduates, reflect this very environment, and I look forward to reading more about long-term career studies and trends of USU women alumni in the future. I also look forward to one day reading more about mentorship and women in military medicine, as I have personally benefited as a mentee of USU leaders. The views expressed are solely those of the author and do not reflect the official policy or position of the U.S. Army, U.S. Navy, U.S. Air Force, the Department of Defense, or the U.S. Government.
8 Responses to gender bias and discrimination among women officers
Responses to gender bias and discrimination among women officers
APA Citation:
Sullivan, A., & Abbe, A. (2023). Responses to gender bias and discrimination among women officers. Army University Press. https://www.armyupress.army.mil/Journals/Military-Review/Online-Exclusive/2023-OLE/Gender-Bias-and-Discrimination/
Focus:
Programming
Other
Branch of Service:
Multiple branches
Army
Air Force
Navy
Coast Guard
Military Affiliation:
Active Duty
Population:
Adulthood (18 yrs & older)
Young adulthood (18 - 29 yrs)
Thirties (30 - 39 yrs)
Middle age (40 - 64 yrs)
Share the article
Research and Technical Reports
Sullivan, Adrian; Abbe, Allison
2023
Four female four-star general officers gathered this year to commemorate Women’s History Month, representing women’s achievements in the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Coast Guard.
9 Reproductive health needs of the military and veterans
Reproductive health needs of the military and veterans
APA Citation:
Christy, A. Y. (2019). Reproductive health needs of the military and veterans. Seminars in Reproductive Medicine, 37(1), 003-004. https://doi.org/10.1055/s-0039-1698443
Focus:
Physical health
Veterans
Branch of Service:
Multiple branches
Military Affiliation:
Active Duty
Veteran
Population:
Adulthood (18 yrs & older)
Share the article
Research
Christy, Alicia Y.
2019
Women veterans and active-duty women are both rapidly expanding populations, with unique reproductive health needs, that differ from their civilian counterparts. There are more than two million Veterans in the United States, and women Veterans comprise the fastest growing group in the Department of Veteran Affairs. In this issue, as in our first special issue, the authors focus on the unique challenges that active-duty women and women Veterans face. In our previous issue, Dr. Pilgrim and his DoD colleagues provided an overview of the infertility services available in the military healthcare system. In this issue, Drs. Maldonado and Madden examine the unique reproductive needs of active-duty men, and their options for evaluation and treatment in Infertility and the Military Male. Dr. Ryan and Dr. Edmonds provide an analysis of the science and policy related to infertility care within the Veterans Health Administration. In their review, Infertility Services for Veterans: Policies, Challenges, and Opportunities, the authors discuss challenges and identify opportunities that exist within the Veteran's health administration system. After 9/11 the number of young women serving in the military grew exponentially, resulting in a significant increase in the number of reproductive-aged women Veterans. Although the research regarding Veterans' pregnancy and obstetric outcomes is growing, it is still limited. Recent programming and research efforts have focused on the unique reproductive risks and needs of this population. In their manuscript, Obstetric Outcomes in U.S. Veterans: Emerging Knowledge, Considerations, and Gaps, Dr. Hugin and her coauthor, Dr. Jonathan Shaw, review what is known about the risk factors and outcomes of women Veterans who receive obstetrical through the Veterans Affairs (VA). The authors focus on one of the largest contemporary studies, based on California birth data, in their examination of the unique health profiles and outcomes of pregnant Veterans. As the number of reproductive-aged women Veterans has increased, the need for contraceptive care has also expanded. Data from a recent large survey study have suggested that both contraceptive use and unintended pregnancy rates in Veterans Health Administration (VHA) are similar to the general population. Subgroup analysis, however, has identified a need for ongoing efforts to improve the outcomes in vulnerable subpopulations of women Veterans. In Contraceptive Care in the Veterans Health Administration, Dr. Yecies and her coauthor, Dr. Borrero, suggest innovative solutions to address inequities in access to contraceptive care within VHA. To achieve effective, high-quality, patient-centered care for oncology patients, communication and coordination across multiple disciplines is necessary. VHA must often rely upon community providers to provide cancer care for women Veterans, making it necessary to coordinate care across two or more health care systems. In their contribution, Coordinating Care for Reproductive Health Malignancies in the Veterans' Health Administration: Promising Practices, Ongoing Challenges, and Future Research, Dr. Cordasco and her coauthors identify future opportunities for research, interventions, and potential options for implementing innovative approaches aimed at improving the coordination of VA reproductive cancer care.
10 Sexual health difficulties among service women: the influence of posttraumatic stress disorder
Sexual health difficulties among service women: the influence of posttraumatic stress disorder
APA Citation:
Kolaja, C. A., Schuyler, A. C., Armenta, R. F., Orman, J. A., Stander, V. A., & LeardMann, C. A. (2021). Sexual health difficulties among service women: The influence of posttraumatic stress disorder. Journal of Affective Disorders, 292, 678–686. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jad.2021.05.089
Focus:
Trauma
Mental health
Deployment
Physical health
Branch of Service:
Navy
Coast Guard
Army
Marine Corps
Air Force
Multiple branches
Military Affiliation:
Active Duty
Reserve
Population:
Adulthood (18 yrs & older)
Young adulthood (18 - 29 yrs)
Thirties (30 - 39 yrs)
Middle age (40 - 64 yrs)
Share the article
Research
Kolaja, Claire A.; Schuyler, Ashley C.; Armenta, Richard F.; Orman, Jean A.; Stander, Valerie A.; LeardMann, Cynthia A.
2021
Background Sexual health among service women remains understudied, yet is related to health and quality of life. This study examined if the associations between recent combat and sexual assault with sexual health difficulties were mediated by mental disorders and identified factors associated with sexual health difficulties among service women. Methods Data from two time points (2013 and 2016) of the Millennium Cohort Study, a large military cohort, were used. The outcome was self-reported sexual health difficulties. Mediation analyses examined probable posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and major depressive disorder (MDD) as intermediate variables between recent combat and sexual assault with the sexual health difficulties. Multivariable logistic regression modeling was used to examine the association of demographic, military, historical mental health, life stressors, and physical health factors with sexual health difficulties. Results Of the 6,524 service women, 13.5% endorsed experiencing sexual health difficulties. Recent combat and sexual assault were significantly associated with sexual health difficulties. Probable PTSD mediated the associations of recent combat and sexual assault with sexual health difficulties; probable MDD did not mediate these relationships. Other significant factors associated with sexual health difficulties included enlisted rank, historical mental disorders, childhood trauma, and disabling injury. Limitations Use of self-reported data, outcome not assessed using a standardized measure and future studies may benefit from examining other mediators. Conclusion Our findings that combat and sexual assault may have negative effects on service women's sexual health suggest that treatment options and insurance coverage for sexual health problems should be expanded.
Women’s participation in the Jordanian Military and police: An exploration of perceptions and aspirations
APA Citation:
Maffey, K. R., & Smith, D. G. (2020). Women’s participation in the jordanian military and police: An exploration of perceptions and aspirations. Armed Forces & Society, 46(1), 46-67. https://doi.org/10.1177/0095327X18806520
Focus:
Other
Branch of Service:
International Military
Military Affiliation:
Active Duty
Population:
Adulthood (18 yrs & older)
Young adulthood (18 - 29 yrs)
Thirties (30 - 39 yrs)
Middle age (40 - 64 yrs)
Share the article
Research
Maffey, Katherine R.; Smith, David G.
2020
Cross-national research contends that women’s military participation has been associated with military function and organization, social structure, culture, and political factors. This exploratory study of Jordanian women suggests that these factors and their subcategories simultaneously help and hinder them. Using Segal’s updated model for women’s participation in the military, we explore how the meaning of Jordanian military women’s experiences compare in a cross-national theoretical framework. We review Segal’s updated model variables and compare it to interview data based on a grounded theory approach. Using semistructured interviews with a nonrandom sample of women who served in the Jordanian military or police, we place their experiences in a cross-national context and provide exploratory qualitative analysis of how these women navigated social and cultural norms. Our results showed that participants perceived their positive experiences and ability to achieve aspirations as enablers to their success, which they considered unlikely in the civilian workforce.
Experiences and coping mechanisms of active-duty women, survivors of military sexual trauma who sought mental health services within the civilian sector: A thematic analysis
APA Citation:
Meza-Bakke, C. (2023). Experiences and coping mechanisms of active-duty women, survivors of military sexual trauma who sought mental health services within the civilian sector: A thematic analysis [Ph.D., Our Lady of the Lake University]. https://www.proquest.com/docview/2781283904/abstract/8899C479B34F4C22PQ/1
Focus:
Trauma
Mental health
Programming
Branch of Service:
Multiple branches
Military Affiliation:
Active Duty
Population:
Adulthood (18 yrs & older)
Young adulthood (18 - 29 yrs)
Thirties (30 - 39 yrs)
Middle age (40 - 64 yrs)
Share the article
Other
Meza-Bakke, Carol
2023
The United States Military has publicly faced cultural backlash and public outcry against acts of sexual assault and sexual harassment. There continues to be public outcry and demand for reforms and for military assailants to be held accountable for their actions, as well as justice for all survivors of Military Sexual Trauma (MST). According to the Department of Defense (DoD) 2020 annual report on sexual assault in the military, there was a 1% increase in MST cases from 2019 to 2020 and a 13% increase from 2020 to 2021 (2022). Sexual assault and sexual harassment in the military continues to be a fostering issue because sexual assaults and sexual harassment persists in the military despite prevention efforts (Office of People Analytics, 2020). It is vital to understand the intersectionality of gender and military sexual assault research to better understand how MST survivors are affected by the military culture and its leadership (Braun and Clark, 2006).
13 Women veterans’ attitudes toward family involvement in PTSD treatment: A mixed-methods examination
Women veterans’ attitudes toward family involvement in PTSD treatment: A mixed-methods examination
APA Citation:
Reuman, L., & Thompson-Hollands, J. (2023). Women veterans’ attitudes toward family involvement in PTSD treatment: A mixed-methods examination. Psychological Services, 20(4), 770-779. https://doi.org/10.1037/ser0000707
Focus:
Veterans
Mental health
Trauma
Branch of Service:
Multiple branches
Military Affiliation:
Veteran
Population:
Adulthood (18 yrs & older)
Thirties (30 - 39 yrs)
Middle age (40 - 64 yrs)
Share the article
Research & Summary
Reuman, Lillian; Thompson-Hollands, Johanna
2023
Family member (FM) involvement in treatment for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) has the potential to enhance veterans’ sense of support and connection and reduce treatment dropout. Little is known, however, about women veterans’ preferences, concerns, and goals regarding FM involvement in PTSD treatment. The study employed a mixed-methods approach consisting of surveys (n = 143) and interviews (n = 10) with women veterans seeking treatment for PTSD in a Veterans Affairs medical center. Married and partnered women veterans, and women veterans who identified as gay/lesbian, were more likely to be open to FM involvement. Results revealed a range of preferences and goals regarding FM involvement. Women veterans expressed a preference for joint sessions at the midpoint or near the end of treatment. Veterans’ goals for FM involvement included enhancing the relationship with their FM and providing the FM with a basic understanding of PTSD. Conclusions, limitations, and future directions are discussed.
Pregnancy weight gain and postpartum weight retention in active duty military women: Implications for readiness
APA Citation:
Johnson, D., Madsen, C., Banaag, A., Krantz, D.S., & Koehlmoos, T.P. (2021). Pregnancy weight gain and postpartum weight retention in active duty military women: Implications for readiness. Military Medicine, usab429. https://doi.org/10.1093/milmed/usab429
Focus:
Physical health
Parents
Branch of Service:
Army
Navy
Air Force
Marine Corps
Military Affiliation:
Active Duty
Population:
Young adulthood (18 - 29 yrs)
Adulthood (18 yrs & older)
Thirties (30 - 39 yrs)
Middle age (40 - 64 yrs)
Share the article
Research
Johnson, Dawn; Madsen, Cathaleen; Banaag, Amanda; Krantz, David S.; Koehlmoos, Tracey Pérez
2021
Weight gain in pregnancy is expected; however, excessive gestational weight gain and postpartum weight retention (PPWR) can cause long-term changes to a patient’s body mass index (BMI) and increase the risk for adverse health outcomes. This phenomenon is understudied in active duty military women, for whom excess weight gain poses challenges to readiness and fitness to serve. This study examines over 30,000 active duty military women with and without preeclampsia to assess changes in BMI postpartum.This is a retrospective analysis of claims data for active duty military women, aged 18-40 years, and experiencing pregnancy during fiscal years 2010-2014. Women with eating disorders, high-risk pregnancy conditions other than preeclampsia, scheduled high-risk medical interventions, or a second pregnancy within 18 months were excluded from the analysis. Height and weight were obtained from medical records and used to calculate BMI. Women with and without preeclampsia were categorized into BMI categories according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention classification of underweight (BMI < 18.5), normal weight (BMI 18.5-24.9), overweight (BMI 25.0-29.9), or obese (>30.0). Linear regressions adjusted by age and race were performed to assess differences in prepregnancy weight and weight gain, retention, and change at 6 months postpartum.The greatest number of pregnant, active duty service women were found among ages 18-24 years, White race, Army service, junior enlisted rank, married status, and with no mental health diagnosis. Overall, over 50% of women in normal and preeclamptic pregnancies returned to their baseline BMI postpartum. Women in both populations more often gained than lost weight postpartum. Preeclampsia strongly affected weight retention, with 40.77% of overweight women and 5.33% of normal weight women progressing to postpartum obesity, versus 32.95% of overweight women and 2.61% of normal weight women in the main population. Mental health conditions were not associated with significant weight gain or PPWR. Women with cesarean deliveries gained more weight during pregnancy, had more PPWR, and lost more weight from third trimester to 6 months postpartum.Most women remain in their baseline BMI category postpartum, suggesting that prepregnancy weight management is an opportunity to reduce excess PPWR. Other opportunities lie in readiness-focused weight management during prenatal visits and postpartum, especially for patients with preeclampsia and cesarean sections. However, concerns about weight management for readiness must be carefully balanced against the health of the individual service members.
15 Socio-cultural dynamics in gender and military contexts: Seeking and understanding change
Socio-cultural dynamics in gender and military contexts: Seeking and understanding change
APA Citation:
Davis, K. (2021). Socio-cultural dynamics in gender and military contexts: Seeking and understanding change. Journal of Military, Veteran, and Family Health, 8(s1), 66-74. https://doi.org/10.3138/jmvfh-2021-0088
Focus:
Other
Programming
Branch of Service:
International Military
Military Affiliation:
Active Duty
Population:
Adulthood (18 yrs & older)
Thirties (30 - 39 yrs)
Middle age (40 - 64 yrs)
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Research
Davis, Karen D.
2021
LAY SUMMARY Today, changing the culture of the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) is a high priority, so that all members feel respected and included and do not experience discrimination, harassment, or any form of sexual misconduct. This article looks back at the CAF experience with gender integration to see what it shows about what should be done today. Over 20 years ago, many believed the job was done, that the CAF had fully integrated women and welcomed all members, regardless of who they were. Women have served in the Canadian military for several decades; they make important contributions, and there are no formal limitations on how they contribute and what they can achieve. Although policies and practices have changed, too often, some women and men continue to experience discrimination, harassment, and sexual assault. Based on past experience, this article suggests that thinking about different ways of understanding culture in the CAF is important in paving the way for a more inclusive experience for all members.
16 Black women veterans’ descriptions of personal control during the transition from military service
Black women veterans’ descriptions of personal control during the transition from military service
APA Citation:
Garcia, J. C. (2022). Black women veterans' descriptions of personal control during the transition from military service [Doctoral dissertation, Grand Canyon University]. ProQuest.
Focus:
Veterans
Branch of Service:
Multiple branches
Air Force
Army
Navy
Military Affiliation:
Veteran
Population:
Young adulthood (18 - 29 yrs)
Adulthood (18 yrs & older)
Thirties (30 - 39 yrs)
Middle age (40 - 64 yrs)
Share the article
Other
Garcia, Jane Charlene
2022
Upon exiting military service and becoming a veteran, service members regain control of their lives. Losing and regaining control over one’s life may affect the sense of personal control. The literature has suggested that women veterans bear disproportionate adverse effects of military services compared to male veterans. Despite gains in education, Black women and Black women veterans have the second-highest unemployment. Personal control is affected by income, employment, race, age, gender, and marital status. The military women’s life events and well-being life course model was used as the theoretical framework. The qualitative descriptive study investigated how Black women veterans between the ages of 20 and 65 described their experiences with personal control during the transition from military service to civilian life. Twenty-one Black women veterans were obtained through purposive sampling from the Southwestern United States. Data were obtained through semi-structured interviews and focus group. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis. Research findings of the study suggested emergent themes to include (a) ways of obtaining and sustaining employment, (b) tools for the transition process, (c) military culture in a civilian world, and (d) transitional challenges. The study brings attention to the unique veteran culture within the dominant United States culture. It highlights a need for colleges and social services agencies to be aware of the challenges that Black women veterans face during the transition.
Military mothers serving as command/sergeant majors in the Army: A heuristic phenomenological inquiry
APA Citation:
Kennedy, Y. (2021). Military mothers serving as command/sergeant majors in the Army: A heuristic phenomenological inquiry [PhD, Liberty University]. https://digitalcommons.liberty.edu/doctoral/2907
Focus:
Programming
Parents
Other
Branch of Service:
Army
Military Affiliation:
Active Duty
Population:
Adulthood (18 yrs & older)
Thirties (30 - 39 yrs)
Middle age (40 - 64 yrs)
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Other
Kennedy, Yvette
2021
There are significant changes to women's rights to employment that create opportunities to earn higher leadership positions. The number of women entering the military in low to mid-level rank has increased over the last few years. However, the proportion of women reaching senior leadership position all the way through to the highest enlisted rank of Sergeant Major remain comparatively small. This qualitative study examines the experiences of military mothers who are Sergeants Major in the Army and the personal attributes, factors of resilience, and strategies that promote well-being—by highlighting the key factors reported that were crucial to their success supporting the advancement of women in this male-dominated institution. This study will look at 10 military mothers that have attained the top enlisted rank of Sergeant Major to investigate the culture and social context in which these women serve that supported and challenged their advancement. The heuristic phenomenological qualitative method will be used to conduct this study. Through demographic data collection, in-depth interviews, and narrative writing, the essence of meaning they make of their experiences will be explored.
18 A scoping review of breastfeeding in active duty U.S. military women
A scoping review of breastfeeding in active duty U.S. military women
APA Citation:
Trego, L. L., Iobst, S. E., Best, N., & Smith, D. (2021). A scoping review of breastfeeding in active duty U.S. military women. Women’s Health Issues, 31, S93–S103. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.whi.2021.06.007
Focus:
Parents
Branch of Service:
Multiple branches
Military Affiliation:
Active Duty
Population:
Adulthood (18 yrs & older)
Young adulthood (18 - 29 yrs)
Thirties (30 - 39 yrs)
Middle age (40 - 64 yrs)
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Research
Trego, Lori L.; Iobst, Stacey E.; Best, Natasha; Smith, Denise
2021
Purpose Active duty (AD) women in the U.S. military experience challenges during childbearing owing to unique occupational demands. The purpose of this article is to report the findings from a scoping review on pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period that are specific to breastfeeding among servicewomen. A secondary aim is to identify leverage points that would promote breastfeeding in this population. Methods We developed a PRISMA-ScR protocol to identify publications from 2000 to 2018 regarding pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period in AD women. Among articles pertaining to the postpartum period, we recognized those specific to breastfeeding for separate analysis. Using the social ecological model for military women's health (SEM-MWH) to synthesize our results, we identified actionable leverage points in the military setting for positive change. Results Research articles specific to breastfeeding (n = 8) included descriptive, cross-sectional, and qualitative studies. Non-research articles (n = 7) were either an integrative review, nonsystematic review, or commentary. Thirty-four leverage points were identified throughout the social ecological system of military women, including support for lactation in the workplace, employment of lactation consultants, occupational hazards assessment, personnel policies that delay the separation of women and their infants, and research to fill gaps in knowledge about breastfeeding while on AD. The greatest number of leverage points are in the SEM-MWH mesosystem and exosystem. Conclusions There are multiple potential leverage points throughout the SEM-MWH to generate positive changes in the social ecological system of military women. These changes could serve to enhance the breastfeeding experiences of AD women.
19 Clinical considerations when working with women veterans in couple therapy
Clinical considerations when working with women veterans in couple therapy
APA Citation:
Vizcardo Solis, G. G. (2023). Clinical considerations when working with women veterans in couple therapy [Psy.D., Alliant International University]. https://www.proquest.com/docview/2833669552/abstract/AAC9E8EA1A394939PQ/1
Focus:
Veterans
Couples
Mental health
Trauma
Branch of Service:
International Military
Multiple branches
Military Affiliation:
Veteran
Population:
Adulthood (18 yrs & older)
Young adulthood (18 - 29 yrs)
Thirties (30 - 39 yrs)
Middle age (40 - 64 yrs)
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Other
Vizcardo Solis, Greysi G.
2023
Women veteran currently make up 15% of the veteran population which is a number that continuously increases each year. As more women enter the force, they must adapt to fit in the male-dominated culture and re-adapt to reintegrate to the civilian world. The VA has found that more than half of veteran seek their services as they reintegrate and that women veteran have different mental health issues and needs compared to male veteran. For example, women veterans are more likely to experience military sexual trauma (MST) and intimate partner violence (IPV). The VA has been proactive about how to support women veteran diagnosed with PTSD, substance use disorder, and relationship impairment. The department of Disabled Veteran proposes that more research needs to be done on women veteran and how a supportive family could serve as a protective factor. With this recommendation in mind, a literature review was conducted focusing on a major dyad in a family, the couple. Additionally, corroborated information with five field consultants with expertise in working with women veteran in couple therapy was gathered to fill in the gaps in the literature. This literature review focuses on main issues women face during their service including adapting to a male-dominated culture of the military. We discuss the challenges women veteran face as they reintegrate to civilian life focusing on impairment of functioning due to MST, PTSD, SUD, and IPV. We discuss the challenges women veteran face in their romantic relationships and effective couple therapy models including IBCT and discuss gender roles. The goal of this dissertation is to summarize clinical considerations for mental health providers who work with women veteran in couple therapy as a focus in the reintegration process to civilian life.
Contribution of post-trauma insomnia to depression and posttraumatic stress disorder in women service members: Findings from the Millennium Cohort Study
APA Citation:
Carlson, G. C., Sharifian, N., Jacobson, I., LeardMann, C. A., Rull, R. P., Martin, J. L., & for the Millennium Cohort Study Team. (2022). Contribution of post-trauma insomnia to depression and posttraumatic stress disorder in women service members: Findings from the Millennium Cohort Study. Sleep, zsac313. https://doi.org/10.1093/sleep/zsac313
Focus:
Mental health
Branch of Service:
Multiple branches
Military Affiliation:
Active Duty
Guard
Reserve
Veteran
Population:
Adulthood (18 yrs & older)
Young adulthood (18 - 29 yrs)
Thirties (30 - 39 yrs)
Middle age (40 - 64 yrs)
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Research
Carlson, Gwendolyn C.; Sharifian, Neika; Jacobson, Isabel; LeardMann, Cynthia A.; Rull, Rudolph P.; Martin, Jennifer L.; for the Millennium Cohort Study, Team
2022
We examined whether women service members who reported recent combat and/or sexual trauma experiences had greater risk of insomnia compared with women who did not report these recent experiences, and whether insomnia would be associated with greater risk of mental health outcomes.We analyzed 2 waves of survey data (2011-2013, Time 1 [T1] and 2014-2016, Time 2 [T2]) from 26,443 current and former women service members from the Millennium Cohort Study. We assessed recent traumas in the past 3 years, and probable insomnia at T1 and probable posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and depression at T2. A longitudinal mediation model was used to quantify separate indirect effects of recent traumas on mental health outcomes through probable insomnia.Women, those who had experienced recent sexual assault (odds ratio [OR] = 1.68; 95% CI, 1.24-2.10), sexual harassment (OR = 1.22; 95% CI, 1.05-1.41), and combat (OR = 1.34; 95% CI, 1.20-1.49) at T1 had greater risk of probable insomnia at T1 compared with women who had not recently experienced these events. Probable insomnia at T1, in turn, was associated with probable depression (OR = 2.66; 95% CI, 2.31-3.06) and PTSD (OR = 2.57; 95% CI, 2.27-2.90) at T2. Recent combat experience did not moderate the associations of recent sexual trauma with insomnia or mental health outcomes.Insomnia contributes to risk of subsequent mental health conditions following trauma. The diagnosis and treatment of post-trauma insomnia should be prioritized to mitigate the development of posttraumatic mental health conditions.
1 A HIDDEN CRISIS: WOMEN'S POSTPARTUM MENTAL HEALTH
Posted by Sherman, Haley
2 BEING A PARENT OF A U.S. SERVICE MEMBER: A CHALLENGING, YET REWARDING JOB
Posted by Abbate, Kate
3 SUICIDE PREVENTION
Posted by Quichocho, Davina
2020 EXCELLENCE IN RESEARCH ON MILITARY AND VETERAN FAMILIES AWARD
Posted on December 16, 2020
