Gender incongruence 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.

Introduction

Peyronie’s disease (PD) is a condition that involves plaques forming under the skin of the penis, causing penile abnormalities like indentations or curvature. While most often people with PD experience curvature that is upward or to one side, sometimes individuals have a ventral or downward curvature.

Sexual aversion disorder (SAD) is characterized by extreme fear, disgust, and avoidance of sexual contact and activities. Despite no longer being classified as a separate disorder in recent medical guidelines, SAD remains common and can have significant negative impacts on individuals’ well-being and relationships. Traditional methods of assessing SAD, like interviews and self-report measures, have limitations such as subjectivity and difficulty in exploring sensitive sexual experiences.

In this video from International Society for Sexual Medicine, experts in the field of sexual health discuss what message that would like to get across to doctors treating gay men. 

For many people, kidney disease or kidney failure brings a wave of concerns, not the least of which is how it might impact their sexuality. It is essential to recognize that individuals with kidney failure can maintain healthy relationships and enjoy fulfilling sex lives. However, kidney disease can introduce changes that affect various aspects of sexuality, including physical function, emotional well-being, and intimacy.

In 1965, Medicare and Medicaid were established in the U.S. to assist elderly and low-income citizens with healthcare costs. Medicare then expanded to cover more groups like disabled individuals and those needing hospice care.

Sexual health is an integral aspect of overall well-being, encompassing physical, mental, and emotional factors. While medications or treatments may be necessary to address some sexual concerns, there are times when simple lifestyle changes can significantly improve one’s sexual health and enhance intimacy. From diet and exercise to stress management and communication, adopting a holistic approach can pave the way for a fulfilling intimate life.

As of June 2023, the prevalence of COVID-19 in the U.S. has varied, impacting health and psychosocial aspects, along with indirect effects like social distancing. While the effects of COVID-19 on sexual functioning in men are better known, its impact on women is less understood.

Lesbian women may be overlooked and understudied in sexual medicine. In this video from the International Society for Sexual Medicine, experts in the field describe ways in which lesbian women are overlooked regarding sexual dysfunctions.