Sexual health is an umbrella term that encompasses your overall well-being in regard to all matters of sexuality. On a medical level, this usually relates to the testing, prevention and treatment of sexually transmitted diseases; reproductive health; and sexual dysfunction.
STD Testing and Treatment
Most sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) have no symptoms, so it is hard to know if you have been infected. Periodic testing is recommended for anyone with multiple sexual partners, even if they are having protected sex. Condoms are the only form of contraception that protects against STDs. It is important to communicate with your partner and ask if they have or have ever had an STD. We offer safe and confidential STD testing and treatment.
If you are diagnosed with an STD, most can fortunately be treated effectively. Oral or injected antibiotics are prescribed for gonorrhea, chlamydia and syphilis and patients usually respond well. There is no cure for genital warts, but flare-ups can be shortened with antiviral medications. HIV also has no cure but can be treated with a combination of medications. STDs are serious infections that can cause lifelong or recurring symptoms and side effects. It is important to practice safe sex and get tested often.
Menstrual Irregularities
Hormones may also be given to regulate the menstrual cycle for patients with irregular or absent menses, abnormal uterine bleeding, progesterone problems, fibroids, polyps, cancers or precancers, thyroid dysfunction and other conditions. Tests will determine whether hormones or other treatment methods, such as surgery, are appropriate.
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
PCOS is the most common endocrine disorder among reproductive-age women. It is characterized by chronic inability to ovulate and elevated male hormones resulting from an imbalance of hormones in the ovaries that disrupts egg production. Symptoms include infrequent or absent periods, excess facial or body hair, male pattern baldness, acne and infertility. It is common for patients to also suffer from other endocrine problems such as insulin resistance and diabetes.
Sexual Dysfunction
Women may experience symptoms of sexual dysfunction at any age. Both physical conditions and psychological factors can contribute to the problem. Some common triggers are:
- Periods of heavy hormonal change, such as the postpartum period and menopause.
- Major illnesses such as cancer.
- Antidepressants, blood pressure medications and antihistamines.