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What is polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)?

Sexual Health Topics: Women’s Sexual Health

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) affects a woman’s menstrual cycles and fertility.

What are condom-associated erection problems (CAEP)?

Sexual Health Topics: Men’s Sexual Health

As the name suggests, condom-associated erection problems (CAEP) are erection issues men might experience due to condoms.

Often, such problems occur when condoms aren’t put on correctly or don’t fit well. A man might lose his erection as the condom is applied or during intercourse.

What does “sex positive” mean?

Sexual Health Topics: Men’s Sexual Health, Women’s Sexual Health

The term “sex positive” can be interpreted in different ways. For most, it involves having positive attitudes about sex and feeling comfortable with one’s own sexual identity and with the sexual behaviors of others.

What is hyperprolactinemia and how does it affect male sexual health?

Sexual Health Topics: Men’s Sexual Health

A person with hyperprolactinemia has unusually high levels of the hormone prolactin. This hormone is made by the pituitary gland and is most commonly associated with breastfeeding women, as it helps in the production of breast milk.

What are vaginal dilators?

Sexual Health Topics: Women’s Sexual Health, Sexual Health Management & Treatments

Vaginal dilators are tube-shaped devices designed to stretch the vagina. Often made of plastic, latex, glass, or silicone, dilators come in various sizes. A small dilator might be smaller than the size of a tampon. A large one might be the size of an average penis.

What is pelvic floor physical therapy?

Sexual Health Topics: Men’s Sexual Health, Women’s Sexual Health, Sexual Health Management & Treatments

Pelvic floor physical therapy is a treatment applied to pelvic floor muscles. Pelvic floor muscles support the pelvic organs, assist in bowel and bladder control, and contribute to sexual arousal and orgasm. 

What is complete androgen insensitivity syndrome (CAIS)?

Sexual Health Topics: Men’s Sexual Health, Sexual Health Management & Treatments

Complete androgen insensitivity syndrome (CAIS) is a genetic condition in which a child is genetically male, but develops female sex characteristics. CAIS is a disorder of sex development (DSD).

What is phimosis?

Sexual Health Topics: Men’s Sexual Health

In uncircumcised men and boys, a foreskin covers the head of the penis. Typically, the foreskin is flexible and stretches to allow exposure of the glans penis (head) when pulled back, offering no resistance. When the foreskin can’t be pulled back, this is called phimosis.

What is bacterial vaginosis?

Sexual Health Topics: Women’s Sexual Health

Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is a vaginal infection caused by an imbalance of “good” and “harmful” bacteria.

What is the refractory period?

Sexual Health Topics: Men’s Sexual Health

After orgasm, both men and women experience a resolution stage called the refractory period. At this time, their bodies “recover” from sexual excitement and return to their normal states. For men, the penis becomes flaccid again as he goes through a refractory period.

Why is vaginal lubrication important for women?

Sexual Health Topics: Women’s Sexual Health

For women, vaginal lubrication is an important part of sexual arousal. It readies the vagina for penetration, making it easier for the penis to enter and reducing any accompanying friction or irritation. Pain during intercourse is often caused by inadequate lubrication.

Can prescription medications affect testosterone levels?

Sexual Health Topics: Men’s Sexual Health, Medications & Sexual Health

Yes, a decrease in testosterone levels can be a side effect of certain prescription medications, such as the following:

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