We are pleased to announce the availability of ISSM scholarships for the ESSM School of Sexual Medicine, slated for November 15 to 24, 2024.

ISSM is offering 10 scholarships covering the full registration fee for the ESSM School of Sexual Medicine taking place at the Courtyard Hotel by Marriott in Budapest, Hungary. Members at all career stages, including Masters and PhD students, postdocs, and lecturers, are eligible to apply. Priority will be given to applicants from lower-income countries or facing financial hardship, ensuring equitable access to this opportunity.

Apply before June 15, 2024, to take advantage of this exclusive opportunity!

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Sexual health is a critical component of overall well-being and can have a big impact on one’s quality of life. However, for transgender and non-binary individuals, navigating sexual health can be particularly complex due to societal stigma, medical barriers, and a lack of tailored healthcare resources. Understanding the unique aspects of sexual health for transgender and non-binary individuals is essential for promoting inclusive and affirming healthcare practices.

Erectile dysfunction (ED), or the inability to get and maintain an erection long enough for satisfying sexual activity, affects many men. It can be due to various causes such as nerve damage or vascular issues, which can lead to inflammation, formation of fibrous tissue in the penis, venous leak, and the eventual loss of erectile function.

April is Testicular Cancer Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about this often misunderstood disease. Testicular cancer, while relatively rare compared to other cancers, can have significant implications on various aspects of a person’s life, including their sexual function and reproductive health. Understanding how testicular cancer impacts sexual health is crucial for those affected and their loved ones.

For the 3rd consecutive year, the ISSM Excellence in Research Award and the ISSM Rising Star Award are back to honor outstanding contributions to research in sexual medicine. ISSM members, it's your chance to nominate deserving candidates!
The awardees will be spotlighted in a special award ceremony during the 25th World Meeting on Sexual Medicine in Rio de Janeiro, scheduled from September 26 to 29, 2024 to celebrate remarkable achievements.
Support the ISSM member that deserves the award and nominate today!

The deadline for nominations is July 1, 2024.

Read more about the ISSM Rising Star Award

Read more about the ISSM Excellence in Research Award

Vulvovaginal atrophy (VVA), also known as genitourinary syndrome of menopause, encompasses anatomical and functional changes in vaginal tissue affecting 60-80% of postmenopausal women. It involves symptoms such as vaginal dryness, irritation, and painful intercourse, negatively impacting sexual well-being and quality of life. Traditional treatments for VVA include topical agents and hormone therapy.

Within the realm of sexual health, understanding the intricacies of genital anatomy and addressing issues that may arise is crucial. One such concern that often goes undiscussed is clitoral adhesions, a condition that can impact sexual pleasure and overall quality of life for individuals. The following will explore what clitoral adhesions are, their potential causes, their symptoms, and why they are significant in sexual health.

Sexual dysfunction, affecting 40%-45% of women, has significant negative impacts on physical and mental health, relationships, self-esteem, and quality of life. Despite its prevalence, it often goes untreated. Multiple factors contribute to sexual dysfunction, including pelvic floor muscle (PFM) issues.

Gender identity is not a mental disorder, but a condition related to sexual health. In this video from the International Society for Sexual Medicine, experts in the field discuss if gender incongruent persons need psychiatric assessment before treatment.

Sexual health is an integral aspect of overall well-being, encompassing physical, emotional, mental, and social dimensions. However, it is not solely determined by biological factors; cultural and societal influences play a significant role in shaping attitudes, behaviors, and access to sexual health resources. As the world observes World Health Day on April 7, it is worthwhile to recognize the multifaceted ways in which cultural and societal factors impact sexual health outcomes.

The subjective orgasm experience (SOE) refers to the personal perception and assessment of sensations experienced during orgasm on a psychological level. It is important in sexual relationships, and it is linked to satisfaction and sexual health.

Menopause is a natural biological process that marks the end of a woman’s reproductive years. It typically occurs in midlife, usually between the ages of 45 and 55, although the timing can vary. During menopause, a woman’s ovaries stop releasing eggs and produce lower levels of hormones like estrogen and progesterone, leading to various physical and hormonal changes. These changes can include symptoms such as hot flashes, mood swings, and irregular menstrual cycles, ultimately resulting in the cessation of menstruation altogether.