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The ISSM is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Mohamed Arafa as the new Deputy Editor-in-Chief of Sexual Medicine Reviews (SMR), effective November 1, 2025.
In his new role, Dr. Arafa will work closely with the Editor-in-Chief and the editorial board to guide the journal’s scientific direction, uphold its rigorous peer-review standards, and further strengthen SMR’s position as a leading source of evidence-based knowledge in sexual health.
To mark this occasion, we spoke with Dr. Arafa about his long-standing connection to Sexual Medicine Reviews, his views on what defines a strong article, memorable papers that have shaped the field, and his advice for early-career professionals in sexual medicine.
Congratulations on your new position as AE! How long have you been following Sexual Medicine Reviews?
– Since its inception. I’ve been a member of the ISSM for more than 15 years and have followed all its publications closely.
What defines a good article in SMR?
– A strong article presents a clear aim, a solid methodology, and a balanced interpretation of findings. Transparency in the search process and selection criteria is also essential to minimize bias and ensure credibility.
Are there any articles that stand out to you as particularly impactful?
– I´d say that the guideline papers from the International Consultation on Sexual Medicine are among the most influential. I also remember The Incidence, Prevalence, and Natural History of Erectile Dysfunction by Dr. Ian Eardley from the first issue, and Benefits and Health Implications of Testosterone Therapy in Men with Testosterone Deficiency by Dr. Traish. Both of them left a lasting impression.
What advice would you offer to early-career professionals in sexual medicine?
– Be curious and critical, identify gaps in the literature and pursue research that addresses them. Always maintain the highest ethical standards, and embrace collaboration. I find that teamwork fosters innovation and enhances the credibility of your work.
How do you like to spend your time outside of work?
– Actually, I enjoy exploring new interests. Recently, I’ve taken up golf, which I find both challenging and relaxing. I try to read or listen to a new book every month, and I make sure to see a film at the cinema at least once a month. The Shining is a really good book and I liked the F1 movie.
Any final thoughts you’d like to share?
Sexual Medicine Reviews and its sister journals have played a vital role in elevating the field of sexual medicine, which was once underrepresented in broader medical literature. I’m proud to be part of the editorial team and to contribute to the journal’s continued growth and influence.
Background: Dr Arafa
Dr Arafa is a physician specializing in Andrology and Reproductive Medicine, currently practicing at Hamad Medical Corporation in Qatar. He also serve as a Professor of Andrology at Cairo University and as an Adjunct Assistant Professor of Urology at Weill Cornell Medicine–Qatar. Over the past 25 years, he has authored or coauthored more than a hundred publications in peer-reviewed journals. Adding to that he has served as a reviewer for several others. He is also active in national and international societies, contributing to the advancement of sexual medicine and the development of clinical guidelines.
Background
Post orgasmic illness syndrome (POIS) is a rare and poorly understood condition which is currently characterized as individuals falling ill following orgasm, usually continuing to feel ill for 2-7 days after. Currently, there are fewer than 100 reported cases in existing literature, and those reported have primarily been male patients. POIS has been reported to affect sexual function and satisfaction, making it an interesting new topic in the world of sexual medicine.
Penile dysmorphic disorder (PDD) is a subclassification of body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) and commonly characterized by a severe fixation on the appearance of one’s own penis, usually viewing minor or imagined problems as making it undesirable or “worse” than other penises. This can result in excessive grooming, self-help methods like using vacuums or stretchers, and sometimes going as far as multiple cosmetic surgeries. Additionally, PDD can contribute toward mental health disorders such as depression or anxiety and can even lead to impaired functioning in sexual and everyday situations.
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In this ISSM Podcast episode, Marcelo Cabrini explores sexual health in cancer care, with a focus on men with prostate cancer. He discusses how a diagnosis can affect patients and partners even before treatment, the importance of clear information and support, and options such as early detection, effective therapies, and penile rehabilitation to help preserve intimacy and quality of life. Interview by Estela Citrin.
We are excited to announce that voting for the VJSM Outstanding Video of the Year award is now open!
The Video Journal of Sexual Medicine (VJSM) is a comprehensive library dedicated to advancing the field of sexual medicine through a rich collection of educational videos.
This esteemed award recognizes VJSM cutting edge videos that impact the field with their innovation and quality.
Deadline to vote is November 16, 2025.
In this ISSM Podcast episode, Marcelo Cabrini explores sexual health in cancer care, with a focus on men with prostate cancer. He discusses how a diagnosis can affect patients and partners even before treatment, the importance of clear information and support, and options such as early detection, effective therapies, and penile rehabilitation to help preserve intimacy and quality of life. Interview by Estela Citrin.
Sexuality is an important part of life for many people at all ages, stages, and conditions. This includes older ages and age-related health complications. Around 40% of adults aged 65-80 years old are reported to be sexually active in several studies globally, although the frequency of sexual activity tends to decline with age.
In this Spanish-language ISSM Podcast episode, Dr. Francisco Cabello discusses sexuality in postmenopausal women with interviewer Estela Citrin. He explores how menopause affects desire, intimacy, and self-esteem, and emphasizes maintaining sexual activity or self-pleasure to support physical and emotional well-being. The conversation also highlights proactive strategies and the potential of technology to enhance sexual health.
In this ISSM Podcast episode, Marcelo Cabrini explores sexual health in cancer care, with a focus on men with prostate cancer. He discusses how a diagnosis can affect patients and partners even before treatment, the importance of clear information and support, and options such as early detection, effective therapies, and penile rehabilitation to help preserve intimacy and quality of life. Interview by Estela Citrin.
This week, ISSM Treasurer Dr. Arthur (Bud) Burnett is representing ISSM at the AfreHealth Pre-Symposium in Dakar, Senegal, where he presented on Collaborative Action to Advance Health Security and Sexual Medicine in Africa.
ISSM is proud to support the Africa Society for Sexual Medicine (ASSM) in their initiatives to advance sexual medicine across the continent. Together, we share the goal of strengthening education, building professional networks, and ensuring sexual health is recognized as a vital part of overall health. At the meeting, ASSM leadership and Dr. Burnett discussed ongoing projects, opportunities for collaboration, and future directions to further enhance sexual medicine in Africa. Through these partnerships, ISSM continues its mission to connect and support societies worldwide, helping to improve patient care and professional development in sexual medicine.
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Background
Female sexual dysfunction (FSD) is characterized by Prolonged or ongoing issues with the sexual response cycle, causing personal distress. FSD affects roughly 30-50% of women globally, often impacting their quality of life. This may include conditions such as vaginismus, dyspareunia, vulvodynia, hypoactive sexual desire disorder, sexual interest and arousal disorder, anorgasmia, vaginal dryness, or others.
