Premature ejaculation (PE) is a condition in which it takes an unusually short period of time for a person to ejaculate during sexual activity, such as less than a minute from the start of penetration. It can also be a diagnosis for an individual who has little to no control over when they ejaculate. These symptoms can cause distress and frustration for both the person with PE and their partner.

Sexual desire, often referred to as libido, can and likely will fluctuate over the course of a person’s life. For example, it is not uncommon for individuals to experience periods of low sexual desire at some point in their lives.

Is premature ejaculation a treatable condition? In the latest edition of our #AskISSM video series, experts in the field of sexual medicine answer this question. 

Prostate cancer is cancer that begins in the prostate, a walnut-sized gland that exists in individuals who have a penis. It is responsible for creating seminal fluid, which helps transport and protect sperm.

Intimacy is an important part of any romantic relationship, and an essential component of intimacy is the ability to communicate openly and honestly about one’s sexual needs and concerns.

What could cause erectile dysfunction in young, healthy men? In the latest edition of #AskISSM, experts in the field of sexual health attempt to answer this question.

The luteal phase is the phase of the menstrual cycle that occurs after ovulation (the phase in which one of the ovaries releases a mature egg) and before the start of menstruation (the shedding of blood and tissue from the uterus each month). The luteal phase typically lasts for about 12-14 days, but the exact duration can vary from person to person.

A vacuum erection device is a tool that men with erectile dysfunction (ED) can use to get an erection. It is an external cylindrical pump with a constriction band on the end that is placed on the penis and activated either by being pumped by hand or powered by batteries.

In the past, penile implant surgery was the last treatment option for men with erectile dysfunction. However, this is no longer the case. In our latest #AskISSM, an expert in the field of sexual health explains when a penile implant surgery may be best. 

The vulva is the name for the outer female genitalia, including the labia majora (outermost folds of skin), labia minora (inner folds of skin), clitoris, and vaginal opening.

People with vulvas may wonder what is “normal” down there. The truth is, there is no such thing as “normal” when it comes to the vulva. Like many aspects of the human body, the vulva can vary widely from person to person.

Nevertheless, the following are some popular questions that vulva owners may have about their genitalia.

Is it normal to have dangly, puffy, very big, or very small labia?

The size and shape of the labia majora and labia minora can vary significantly among individuals. Some people have larger or more prominent labia, while others have smaller or less noticeable labia. Some may find that their labia minora hang down further than their labia majora, and some may find just the opposite. Furthermore, the labia minora may not be perfectly symmetrical, and this is entirely normal and should not be a cause for concern unless it is causing physical or emotional discomfort.

What is the normal color of the vulva?

The color of the vulva can also vary. It may be pink, brown, reddish, or other shades. It is normal for the color of the vulva to differ among different people.

What is the clitoral hood, and how can I tell if mine is normal?

The clitoral hood is the fold of skin that covers and protects the clitoris and, like the other aspects of the vulva, it can vary in size and appearance. Some individuals may have a more noticeable clitoral hood, while others may have a less evident one.

What should my hair look like down there?

The presence and amount of pubic hair will be different for every person. Some may find that they have sparse or no pubic hair, while others may have a thicker growth. Hair color and texture can also vary.

It's crucial to understand that there is no one “normal” appearance for the vulva. What is most important is that the vulva is healthy, free from discomfort or pain, and functions as it should. If you have concerns about the appearance or health of your vulva, or if you experience any unusual symptoms such as itching, pain, or unusual discharge, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare professional who specializes in women’s sexual health or gynecology. They can provide guidance, perform examinations if necessary, and address any concerns you may have.

References:

• Planned Parenthood. (2023). What are the parts of the female sexual anatomy? https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/health-and-wellness/sexual-and-reproductive-anatomy/what-are-parts-female-sexual-anatomy
  
  
• The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG). (2023). Vulvovaginal Health. https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/vulvovaginal-health

Varicocele is an enlargement of veins in the scrotum, which is the bag of skin that holds the testicles. This condition is similar to varicose veins that usually occur in the legs, ankles, and feet.

Penile size restoration may be possible, but is typically reserved for a specific subset of patients. In this video from the International Society for Sexual Medicine, an expert in the field of sexual medicine answers: is there any safe treatment to increase penis size?