A woman’s sexuality can change over the course of her life as a result of different life phases and/or life events. Pregnancy and childbirth have been shown to have a big impact on a woman’s sexual function. Research indicates that sexual function declines during pregnancy and typically does not fully recover to pre-pregnancy levels until about 12 months postpartum (Chayachinda, 2015).
Transgender individuals, or people whose gender identity does not align with the sex that they were assigned at birth, may choose to transition through gender-affirming hormone therapy, gender-affirming surgery (GAS), or both. A recent survey of 27,715 transgender participants in the United States indicated that 25% of the respondents had undergone at least one GAS such as chest surgery (breast augmentation or mastectomy) or genital surgery (phalloplasty or vaginoplasty).
Vaginismus is a sexual pain disorder characterized by involuntary vaginal spasms that can make vaginal penetration difficult and painful. Although it was defined by the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 4th edition (DSM-IV) as a distinct condition, the 5th edition (DSM-5) combines vaginismus and dyspareunia (painful intercourse) into one condition known as genito-pelvic pain/penetration disorder (GPPPD).
Pornography has become widely available in recent years with the advent of free online porn streaming sites. Its increased availability has sparked debate as to whether or not viewing pornography has an impact on a person’s sex life/sexual health. While some suggest that frequent pornography use may have a detrimental effect on a person’s relationships, sexual satisfaction, and even mental health (possibly contributing to depression), the research thus far has been limited in scope and often contradictory.
For many men who experience erectile difficulties after undergoing treatment for prostate cancer, erectile aids (EAs) such as oral medications (PDE5i), vacuum erection devices (VED), and intra-cavernosal injections (ICI) offer a means of achieving an erection post treatment. However, even though the majority of prostate cancer patients experience erectile difficulties for months, years, or indefinitely after treatment, some choose never to use EAs, and some who use EAs ultimately end up abandoning them.
Persistent Genital Arousal Disorder/Genito-Pelvic Dysesthesia (PGAD/GPD) is a condition characterized by persistent, unwanted, and intrusive feelings of genital arousal that are not related to sexual desire. Symptoms may include lubrication, tingling, throbbing, and swelling of the genitals, and/or the feeling of being on the verge of orgasm. These sensations might be constant, or they may come and go, lasting for hours to days at a time.
Breast cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer in the world. While it can affect both men and women, it occurs more frequently in women. It is the third leading cause of death in Iran, causing an average age of death in one’s 40s or 50s, but early detection and treatment can increase the survival rate of breast cancer patients.
Transgender individuals are people whose gender identity or expression does not align with the sex they were assigned at birth.
A cancer diagnosis of any kind can be very distressing for an individual, and the repercussions of such a diagnosis can have a significant impact on all aspects of a person’s life. What’s more, although cancer treatments can prevent the cancer from spreading and possibly eliminate it altogether, they often have negative short- and long-term consequences for patients. Patients who are aware of the possible side effects before undergoing treatment may be better equipped to manage them with the support of primary care physicians, oncologists, mental health specialists, and other health care professionals.
People who are satisfied with their appearance may have fewer sexual problems, suggests a recent Journal of Sexual Medicine study.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, people living with HIV (PLHIV) may experience disruptions in care, poor mental health, economic insecurity, and discrimination, according to a recent review article in AIDS and Behavior.
A telephone helpline may be an effective way to assist individuals at risk for committing sexual offenses, according to a new Journal of Sexual Medicine study.
