This message is to inform you that currently a fake email account for the ISSM President Run Wang is being used, requesting to respond to ‘help with some delegate logistics service matters on behalf of ISSM,' 'assistance with a transfer of 3.750 Euros for a delegate travel support,' or 'a time-sensitive request that requires your specialized support.'

Please note that this account is NOT an email account from the ISSM president and please do not reply or click on any links in this message. It is best to delete it directly. If you reply to the email, they will send you even more messages and try to get you convinced to transfer money. This method is called a smart form of phishing.

Phishing

Phishing is a form of online scamming using fake e-mails, websites or messages. How can you identify those fake e-mails and how can you distinguish them from real messages? Smart cybercriminals can really make you doubt. Here are a number of tips to help you assess whether or not you can trust a message.

The basic rule: Cyber criminals always try to abuse something you believe in or someone you trust. They also often try to use fear to achieve their ends. Do not get tricked!

Tips

Did you get a suspicious e-mail or phone call? Then answer these questions:

• Is it unexpected? - You received a message for no reason: you did not buy anything, have not had contact with them for a long time, etc. Investigate further.
• Is it urgent? - Stay calm: did you really get a first reminder to pay? Do you know that 'friend in need'?
• Do you know the person who sent the e-mail? - Check the e-mail address, and also check for spelling errors. However, beware: a legitimate e-mail address is no guarantee.
• Do you find the request strange? - An official body will never ask you for your password, bank details or personal details via e-mail, SMS or over the telephone.
• Where does the link you need to click on lead to? - Hover over the link with your mouse. Is the domain name, the word before “.be”, “.com”, “.eu”, “.org”, etc. and before the very first slash "/", really the organization’s name?
• Are you being personally addressed? - Be wary of messages using general and vague titles, or your e-mail address to address you.
• Does the message contain many linguistic errors? - Although seasoned cybercriminals tend to use language correctly, language errors or a foreign language can indicate a suspicious message.

If you are in doubt about emails you receive from ISSM (now or in the future) or have any questions/concerns, please always contact us through This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call us at: +31 75 647 63 72.

Pelvic floor exercises, often called Kegel exercises, can support the muscles in the pelvic region, which assist with vital functions like bladder control, bowel health, and sexual activity. While these exercises are well-known for their role in managing incontinence, they can also have benefits for sexual health. Here’s an overview of how pelvic floor exercises can enhance your well-being.

As sexual medicine evolves, non-pharmacologic tools like penile constriction devices (commonly called “cock rings”) offer options to enhance sexual experiences or help with erectile dysfunction (ED). These devices are worn at the base of the penis to improve rigidity and prolong erections by restricting blood flow out of the penis. While such devices have existed for centuries, their use became more mainstream in the 1970s. They’re now available in various materials and designs, some with advanced features like vibration or data tracking.

We're excited to present a unique opportunity exclusively for ISSWSH members! Enhance your professional growth and expand your network by opting for a joint ISSWSH/ISSM membership. For a limited time, from February 1 to April 1, 2025, you can enjoy the benefits of both societies and receive a one-year ISSM membership for 2026 absolutely free!

Why Upgrade to a Joint Membership?

• Expand Your Network: Join a vibrant community of over 3,500 international sexual medicine specialists.
• Comprehensive Knowledge: Gain free access to ISSM's portfolio of journals, including the Journal of Sexual Medicine (JSM), Sexual Medicine Open Access Journal (SMOA), and Sexual Medicine Reviews (SMR).
• Exclusive Opportunities: Avail yourself of scholarships, funding, and enjoy discounted rates at ISSM's international events and activities.

This offer is available to any ISSWSH member who has not held an ISSM membership in the past two years and commits to renewing their ISSWSH membership for 2026.

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to maximize your professional benefits and broaden your horizons in the field of sexual medicine. Upgrade your membership today and secure your place in our global community.

Please email the ISSWSH office at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to express your interest in this offer. They will provide you with the necessary payment and confirmation details. The cost is $125 for Category A countries or $90 for Category B countries, covering a two-year membership with ISSM (double the usual one-year term).

Low libido, or a decreased interest in sexual activity, can be influenced by a variety of physical, emotional, and social factors. Fortunately, many strategies can help improve libido, often addressing its underlying causes. The following are some evidence-based approaches to enhance sexual desire.

Vulvodynia is a chronic pain condition affecting the vulva that lasts at least three months and has no clear cause. A common type, localized provoked vulvodynia (LPV), involves pain triggered by contact, such as sitting, wearing tight clothes, or sexual activity. This condition can significantly impact physical and emotional health, relationships, and quality of life. Despite vulvar pain affecting an estimated 10%-28% of women, many do not seek treatment, leading to underreported prevalence.

Sperm quality is an essential factor in male fertility, and lifestyle choices can significantly influence it. Sperm quality is commonly evaluated based on parameters like count, motility (movement), morphology (shape), and DNA integrity. Factors such as diet, exercise, stress, sleep, and exposure to toxins play vital roles in determining the health of sperm.

Sexual Medicine Open Access (SMOA), owned by the International Society for Sexual Medicine (ISSM) and published by OUP, is seeking applications for the position of Editor-in-Chief.

About Sexual Medicine Open Access

Sexual Medicine Open Access (SMOA) publishes multidisciplinary clinical, basic, and epidemiological research to define and understand the basis of sexual function and dysfunction in diverse populations. The open access format of Sexual Medicine ensures that accepted manuscripts will be rapidly published and fully accessible by interested healthcare professionals worldwide.

Why Apply?

• Editorial Vision: Develop a compelling editorial strategy to shape the future of the SMOA, promoting innovation, diversity, and the highest quality content.
• Thought Leadership: Drive the journal's focus on emerging trends, groundbreaking research, and thought-provoking articles, positioning it as a leader in the field of sexual medicine.
• Publication Excellence: Oversee the timely publication of six high-quality issues per year, ensuring adherence to rigorous publication standards.
• Collaborative Networks: Foster collaborations with leading experts and institutions to expand the journal's network and influence, driving advancements in sexual medicine research and practice.
• Recognition and Impact: Establish yourself as a respected thought leader in the field, working closely with a distinguished editorial team to shape the journal's direction and uphold its exceptional reputation.

Responsibilities:

As the Editor-in-Chief, your responsibilities will include:

• Ensure the quality and relevance of each publication, making decisions on all manuscripts, and overseeing the peer review process to maintain high reporting standards.
• Determine the suitability of manuscripts, including those redirected from other journals such as JSM, for publication in SMOA.
• Work closely with the ISSM Publications Committee and Board of Directors to align the journal's direction with the broader goals of ISSM.
• Explore and implement cutting-edge methods for online content delivery to enhance accessibility and engagement with the journal's audience.
• Dedicate sufficient, regularly scheduled time to the journal's success and engage actively with the Managing Editor's office to optimize publication processes and outcomes.
• Shape the content and composition of each journal issue to ensure the publication of high-quality research.
• Publish a wide range of topics covering multidisciplinary clinical, basic, and epidemiological research.
• Stay updated on emerging trends and advancements in various fields of study relevant to sexual medicine.
• Ensure a thorough and fair review process for all submitted articles, maintaining high standards of academic integrity.
• Work closely with a team of editors to assign reviewers and make informed decisions regarding manuscript publications.
• Communicate effectively with the Managing Editor to enhance publication quality, improve the author experience, and expand readership.
• Prioritize the journal's growth, consistently striving to enhance its impact and reputation within the scientific community.
• Embrace a forward-thinking mindset and anticipate future advancements in the field, preparing the journal to adapt and evolve.
• Foster collaboration with other journal editors and encourage teamwork among editorial staff to foster a cooperative and productive working environment.

Requirements:

Applicants for the Editor-in-Chief role should meet the following criteria:

• Expertise and Qualifications: Hold a postgraduate qualification/experience (Ph.D., M.D., or equivalent) in sexual medicine, urology, andrology, gynecology, psychiatry, or a related discipline with a balanced understanding of sexual function and dysfunction across genders..
• Proven Leadership in the Field: Demonstrate significant editorial experience and thought leadership with a robust publication record.
• Editorial Experience and Skills:
  • Have previous experience serving on editorial boards or in editorial leadership positions, showcasing a proven track record in managing publication processes.
  • Familiar with the nuances of editorial processes, including the peer review system, and possess strong analytical and critical appraisal skills.
  • Excellent communication, leadership, time management, and organizational skills are essential.
  • Must be able to work with the online editorial management system.
  • Fluency in English, both written and verbal, is required to ensure effective management of and communication about the journal's content.
• Membership: Maintain an active membership in the International Society for Sexual Medicine (ISSM).

Term and Compensation:

The Editor-in-Chief will serve an initial 3-year term, with the potential for a 5-year extension based on evaluation by the ISSM Publication Committee and ISSM Executive Committee. The term is expected to commence on 1 January 2026. An honorarium commensurate with the responsibilities and importance of the role will be provided.

Application Process:

To apply for this prestigious position, please submit your application to the ISSM executive office (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.) by March 3, 2025. Your application should include the following documents:

• Current CV: With complete bibliometric data and a detailed description of previous experiences on editorial boards of related journals.
• Visionary Statement: Outlining your strategic plans for the journal's future, including how Open Access will shape your tenure as Editor-in-Chief.

Proposals for Journal Growth: Including strategies for enhancing the journal's visibility, impact, and financial sustainability.

We encourage applications from individuals of all genders, ethnicities, and scientific backgrounds related to sexual medicine. At ISSM, we are committee to fostering an inclusive environment that values and respects the unique contributions of every individual.

Join us in leading the field of Sexual Medicine! For further inquiries, please contact the ISSM Executive Office using the provided contact details.

Contact Details:
ISSM Executive Office
Zaanweg 119a, 1521 DS Wormerveer, The Netherlands
Phone: +31-75-6476372
Fax: +31-75-6476371
E-mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Introduction

Erectile dysfunction (ED) happens when a man struggles to get or keep an erection firm enough for sexual activity. This condition can result from issues with nerves, blood flow, hormones, or mental health. ED is common, especially as men age, with about 37% of men aged 70–75 experiencing it.

Genito-pelvic pain/penetration disorder (GPPPD) is a condition that can cause significant distress, affecting activities like tampon use, gynecological exams, and sexual intercourse. It involves pain, muscle tightness, and anxiety related to vaginal penetration and may lead to reduced sexual desire and emotional challenges like anxiety and depression. Despite its prevalence, diagnosing and treating GPPPD has been difficult due to the lack of effective assessment tools.

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are common health concerns that can affect anyone who is sexually active. Understanding the signs and symptoms of an STI and knowing when to seek medical attention can help protect your health and that of your partner(s).

Chronic pain, defined as pain lasting more than three months, affects one in five adults worldwide and often disrupts daily life and emotional well-being. It’s also linked to sexual well-being (SWB), a crucial part of quality of life. While past research has focused mostly on the effect of chronic pain on narrow aspects of sexual function (like arousal), a new study explored broader aspects of SWB, including sexual satisfaction, self-esteem, and motivation.