Did You Know?

What Are the Risk Factors for Developing Testicular Cancer, and Are There Ways to Lower My Risk?

April is Testicular Cancer Awareness Month, aimed at spreading awareness about the disease and encouraging men to prioritize their health through regular screenings and education. Testicular cancer is a less common form of cancer, but understanding its risk factors and taking preventative measures can help with early detection and successful treatment. The following are the various risk factors associated with testicular cancer as well as ways to lower one’s risk.

What Are the Risk Factors for Developing Testicular Cancer, and Are There Ways to Lower My Risk?

How Might My Sexual Health Change After Becoming Sober?

Embarking on a journey of sobriety is a significant step towards physical, mental, and emotional well-being. While the focus is often placed on the cessation of substance use itself, it may also be helpful to acknowledge the potential impact of sobriety on various aspects of life, including sexual health. Transitioning to a sober lifestyle can indeed bring about changes in sexual behavior, desires, and experiences. Understanding these changes and navigating them with proper guidance and support is essential for individuals embracing sobriety.

How Might My Sexual Health Change After Becoming Sober?

Different Types of Penile Constriction Rings

By Rainey Horwitz, MD, MS

Penile constriction rings are devices designed to be placed around the base of the penis to aid in maintaining an erection by restricting the outflow of blood. There are several reasons people with a penis might be interested in exploring the use of rings during sex. Many wearers appreciate that penile constriction rings/bands can aid in enhancing erectile function by gently compressing the veins that drain blood penis, causing the corpora to retain blood and remain firmer for a prolonged period of time. Difficulty maintaining rigidity can be a source of distress for people with a penis, so penile rings offer a safe option to try before utilizing erectile dysfunction medications. Some rings are specifically designed to be used in conjunction with vacuum erection devices (VEDs) to treat erectile dysfunction by maintaining corporal blood flow with negative pressure. Penile rings and VEDs are examples of conservative approaches to treating erectile dysfunction and can also be useful augmentations in optimizing erectile function prior to and following urologic surgery.

Different Types of Penile Constriction Rings

Types of Birth Control and How They Work

The realm of birth control is vast and diverse, offering individuals the ability to make informed choices about their reproductive health. Understanding the various types of birth control methods and how they work is crucial for anyone seeking to take control of their family planning. This article will explore different types of birth control and explain the mechanisms behind each method.

Types of Birth Control and How They Work

What Are Some Causes of Erectile Dysfunction?

Erectile dysfunction (ED), or the inability to maintain an erection long enough for satisfactory sexual activity, is a prevalent condition that affects millions of men worldwide. ED can cause emotional distress and negatively impact one’s overall quality of life.

What Are Some Causes of Erectile Dysfunction?

What Might Cause Bumps on the Genitals?

Bumps on the genitals can be a source of concern and discomfort for individuals, prompting questions about their causes and potential implications. It is important to recognize that various factors can contribute to the development of genital bumps, and understanding these causes is essential for proper diagnosis and effective management.

What Might Cause Bumps on the Genitals?

Are Over-The-Counter Feminine Hygiene Products Safe to Use?

Feminine hygiene is a topic of paramount importance for women’s health and well-being. Over-the-counter (OTC) feminine hygiene products are widely available and commonly used to address various intimate health concerns. However, a critical question that often arises is whether these products are safe or beneficial for use. This following is a list of commonly sold feminine hygiene products along with information on their potential risks and/or benefits.

Are Over-The-Counter Feminine Hygiene Products Safe to Use?

What Is Bacterial Vaginosis? 8 Things to Know

The SMSNA periodically receives and publishes ‘guest editorials.’ The current article was submitted by Mia Barnes, a freelance writer and researcher who specializes in women's health, wellness, and healthy living. She is the Founder and Editor-in-Chief of Body+Mind Magazine.

You might panic if you notice a fishy discharge down there. While your symptoms may spur worry, the problem could be a readily treatable and common condition known as bacterial vaginosis.

What Is Bacterial Vaginosis? 8 Things to Know

Debunking Common Myths About HIV/AIDS

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) have been a global health concern for decades, with misinformation and myths often contributing to the stigma surrounding these conditions. Despite extensive efforts to educate the public, numerous myths persist. This article aims to debunk some of the most common misconceptions about HIV/AIDS, providing accurate information to promote understanding and reduce stigma.

Debunking Common Myths About HIV/AIDS

How Can I Manage PMS and Its Impact on My Sexual Well-Being?

Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is a common condition that affects many individuals with uteruses during their menstrual cycle. PMS is known for its physical symptoms such as bloating, breast tenderness, headaches, and cramps, as well as its emotional symptoms including mood swings, irritability, anxiety, and feelings of sadness. Nevertheless, its impact on sexual well-being is often overlooked.

How Can I Manage PMS and Its Impact on My Sexual Well-Being?

Can Sex Throw off Your Vaginal pH Balance?

The SMSNA periodically receives and publishes ‘guest editorials.’ The current article was submitted by Mia Barnes, a freelance writer and researcher who specializes in women's health, wellness, and healthy living. She is the Founder and Editor-in-Chief of Body+Mind Magazine.

Your vagina is a pretty powerful organ. It is a pathway for menstrual blood and babies. It also is a main player in sexual intercourse. You might hear about your vagina’s pH and worry that yours is at risk. Here’s what to know about vaginal pH, including the impacts sex could have.

Can Sex Throw off Your Vaginal pH Balance?

What Is Peyronie’s Disease? How Do I Know If I Have It?

Peyronie’s disease (PD) occurs when scar tissue (plaque) under the skin of the penis causes it to bend or change shape when it becomes erect. Often, this condition is associated with a loss of penile length or girth. It is considered to be a sexual dysfunction because PD may make it difficult or impossible for an individual to have sex. While the exact cause of PD is unknown and may vary from person to person, it can be related to an injury or a connective tissue disorder.

What Is Peyronie’s Disease? How Do I Know If I Have It?

Does the “Pull-Out Method” Actually Work?

The SMSNA periodically receives and publishes ‘guest editorials.’ The current article was submitted by Mia Barnes, a freelance writer and researcher who specializes in women's health, wellness, and healthy living. She is the Founder and Editor-in-Chief of Body+Mind Magazine.

Practicing safe sex is essential. Everyone deserves protection against unwanted pregnancies, but making informed decisions without learning if a contraceptive method is effective is challenging. Discover if the pull-out method actually works and whether you should switch to an alternative form of contraceptives.

Does the “Pull-Out Method” Actually Work?

What Is Venous Leakage?

Venous leakage, (also known as venous leak,) is a cause of erectile dysfunction (ED) in individuals with penises.

What Is Venous Leakage?

Understanding Women’s Sex Hormones and How They Affect Arousal

The SMSNA periodically receives and publishes ‘guest editorials.’ The current article was submitted by Mia Barnes, a freelance writer and researcher who specializes in women's health, wellness, and healthy living. She is the Founder and Editor-in-Chief of Body+Mind Magazine.

Your hormones can influence things large and small, including something as crucial as your mood. When your body doesn't produce enough of one, it can throw things off drastically. You may experience side effects ranging from depression to unexplained weight loss or weight gain. Knowing how your sex hormones can regulate your libido can help you better understand yourself overall.

Understanding Women’s Sex Hormones and How They Affect Arousal

Why Do People Watch Porn?

Watching pornography (porn) has become an increasingly common phenomenon that occurs at a progressively younger age, given the availability, anonymity, and accessibility of porn on the internet. Viewing pornography is common and normal, even though some individuals may feel concerned about the frequency at which they watch porn.

Why Do People Watch Porn?

What Is Micropenis?

Micropenis is a medical condition in which an individual has an atypically small penis. Although a universal definition for micropenis has not been agreed upon, one proposed definition is a penis of an adult man that is 9.3 cm or 3.66 inches or less when stretched (while flaccid). The average penis length for an adult man is 13.24 cm or 5.21 inches when stretched.

What Is Micropenis?

The Effects of Nursing on a New Mother’s Sexuality

The SMSNA periodically receives and publishes ‘guest editorials.’ The current article was submitted by Mia Barnes, a freelance writer and researcher who specializes in women's health, wellness, and healthy living. She is the Founder and Editor-in-Chief of Body+Mind Magazine.

Breastfeeding is a beautiful way to nourish your child and strengthen the mother-baby bond. It can also affect your sex life and sexuality. Prior to giving birth, breasts were an erogenous zone meant for your and your partner’s pleasure. Now, they have more than one function, which can feel confusing. In addition, surging hormones from breastfeeding can change how a woman’s body reacts to sexual stimulation.

The Effects of Nursing on a New Mother’s Sexuality

A Medical Role for Vibrators

By Rainey Horwitz, MS

Vibrators are gaining attention among physicians for their therapeutic roles in medicine. Despite the long medical history of therapeutic pelvic massage around the world, personal massagers like vibrators are just entering mainstream conversation and gaining recognition as a pelvic health therapy by Western medicine. This is likely connected to sexual stigma and taboo surrounding imagery and discussion of vibrators. Vibrators were initially used in medical offices during the industrial revolution of the early 1900s when electrical power entered private establishment. Vibration was claimed to be a treatment for gastrointestinal and lymphatic issues, as well as supposed energetic “rejuvenation” remedies. Following their appearance in pornography in the 1920s, vibrators became tied to sexual deviancy and were no longer recognized for their potential therapeutic roles (Horwitz, 2020).

A Medical Role for Vibrators

How Can One Use Sex Toys Safely?

Sex toys and tools such as vibrators, dildos, vaginal dilators, anal toys, penis rings, and penis sleeves can enhance a solitary or partnered sexual experience. However, it is important to use them safely. By using sex toys responsibly and keeping them clean, you can avoid passing on sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and/or blood-borne infections (from sex toys that may create small tears in the skin and draw blood).

How Can One Use Sex Toys Safely?

How and Why a Woman’s Libido Shifts During Pregnancy

The SMSNA periodically receives and publishes ‘guest editorials.’ The current article was submitted by Mia Barnes, a freelance writer and researcher who specializes in women's health, wellness, and healthy living. She is the Founder and Editor-in-Chief of Body+Mind Magazine.

Many women experience ebbs and flows in their libidos throughout their pregnancies. While one woman may have an increased sex drive, another can lack desire altogether. An increased or decreased libido is normal and can vary by the woman and even by pregnancy. Some women experience a high sex drive in their first pregnancy and a low one in their second. Here are some reasons why.

How and Why a Woman’s Libido Shifts During Pregnancy

How Might OCD Impact a Person's Sex Life?

Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) is a chronic mental health condition that involves recurring unwanted thoughts or impulses (known as obsessions) that lead to repetitive behaviors (compulsions). These obsessions and compulsions can interfere with a person’s day-to-day life and may cause relationship problems, occupational issues, and significant emotional distress.

How Might OCD Impact a Person's Sex Life?

What Is Provoked Vestibulodynia?

Provoked vestibulodynia (PVD) is a condition that can affect people who have vulvas, causing painful sex. It is a form of vulvodynia (pain in the vulva, or external female genitalia) that is characterized by pain with touch or pressure on the vulvar vestibule, which is the skin by the entrance to the urethra and vaginal opening.

What Is Provoked Vestibulodynia?

What Is Edging and Why Do People Do It?

Edging is the practice of stopping sexual stimulation before reaching orgasm to prolong a sexual experience. The term stems from the concept of approaching the metaphorical “edge” of orgasm but stopping before going over the edge.

What Is Edging and Why Do People Do It?

What Women Need to Know About Pain During Sex

The SMSNA periodically receives and publishes ‘guest editorials.’ The current article was submitted by Mia Barnes, a freelance writer and researcher who specializes in women's health, wellness, and healthy living. She is the Founder and Editor-in-Chief of Body+Mind Magazine 

Pain during sex, or dyspareunia, is often treatable and very common among women. You could experience pain during intercourse, and you shouldn’t be embarrassed or afraid to discuss it with your doctor. It may feel like a burning sensation or a more profound physical pain. Some common causes of discomfort during penetration can be dryness, irritation, injury or inflammation. Here are some other reasons you could experience pain during sex.

What Women Need to Know About Pain During Sex

What Is Movember?

Movember is an annual awareness-raising event that occurs every November. It involves growing a moustache throughout the month to bring attention to men’s health issues including prostate cancer, testicular cancer, and men’s suicide. The name “Movember” is a combination of the words “moustache” and “November.” Here is some information on the important men’s health issues that are addressed in Movember.

What Is Movember?

What Is the Connection Between Low Testosterone and COVID-19 Hospitalizations?

According to a recent retrospective cohort study, low testosterone levels in men may increase their risk of hospitalization for COVID-19. Conversely, normal testosterone levels in men, (whether due to the body’s natural production of testosterone or testosterone therapy,) may be protective against severe cases of COVID-19.

What Is the Connection Between Low Testosterone and COVID-19 Hospitalizations?

How Can Overly Tight Pelvic Floor Muscles Impact One’s Sexual Health?

The pelvic floor is a group of muscles that holds the pelvic organs in place. A strong pelvic floor is associated with good sexual outcomes. People may encounter sexual health issues if their pelvic floor muscles become too weak, including pelvic organ prolapse or urinary or fecal incontinence during sex. On the other hand, sexual problems can also arise when the pelvic floor muscles are too tight.

How Can Overly Tight Pelvic Floor Muscles Impact One’s Sexual Health?

What is a Stim Patch, and How Might it Help Premature Ejaculation?

A stim patch is a small (disposable) electrical device that can be worn on the perineum (the area between the anus and the scrotum) to delay premature ejaculation. It works by delivering electrical stimulation to the body that may help men contract the muscles of their pelvic floor and, in doing so, postpone ejaculation during sexual activity.

What is a Stim Patch, and How Might it Help Premature Ejaculation?

What Is the P-Shot? Does It Actually Work?

The P-Shot, also known as a platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injection, is being tested as an experimental therapy for erectile dysfunction (ED). It involves taking a sample of the patient’s blood, using a centrifuge to separate out the PRP from the other components of blood (i.e., red blood cells and platelet-poor plasma), and injecting the PRP into the penis to promote the growth of penile tissues.

What Is the P-Shot? Does It Actually Work?

What Is Cybersex?

Cybersex is any type of sexual activity that occurs virtually between two or more individuals including sexting, sharing sexual images or videos with a partner, webcam sex, and chatroom sex. Although some cybersex experiences include visual elements such as photos or video, other cybersex activities involve describing sexual fantasies or scenarios in written or spoken words. In most cases, cybersex involves real-life masturbation by one or all participants.

What Is Cybersex?

What Are the Risk Factors for Penile Fracture?

Although it is rare, penile fracture is possible when a man experiences trauma to his erect penis, sometimes during rough sexual intercourse. Since there are no bones in the penis, penile fracture is different from other types of fractures. It occurs when the corpora cavernosa (two columns of spongy tissue in the penis that fill with blood during an erection) are damaged due to a sudden blow or a situation in which the erect penis is bent forcefully.

What Are the Risk Factors for Penile Fracture?

Do ED Medications Increase One’s Risk of Vision Problems?

Phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors (PDE5i) are oral medications used to treat erectile dysfunction (ED) such as Viagra, Cialis, and Levitra. They are one of the most frequently prescribed medications in the U.S., and in 2020, an estimated 20 million monthly PDE5i prescriptions were filled within the country.

Do ED Medications Increase One’s Risk of Vision Problems?

Is Cycling a Risk Factor for Erectile Dysfunction?

Some studies have suggested there may be a relationship between cycling and erectile dysfunction (ED) in men. However, before you panic and sell your bicycle, take into consideration that, at this time, the evidence on the topic is still limited and conflicting. The potential association between cycling and ED is likely more nuanced than one might expect. What’s more, there may be ways for cyclists to protect themselves against ED. Although this article is not a substitute for advice from a medical professional, it may help clarify some points regarding cycling and ED.

Is Cycling a Risk Factor for Erectile Dysfunction?

What is Compulsive Sexual Behavior Disorder?

Compulsive sexual behavior disorder (CSBD) has been known by a number of different names over the years, including hypersexuality, sexual addiction, and excessive sexual desire disorder.

What is Compulsive Sexual Behavior Disorder?

The Effect of Pornography on Sexual Satisfaction

Pornography use has become more prevalent in recent years due to the ease of access of readily available free content on porn streaming websites. By some estimates, over half of all men and one-third of all women watch porn at least once a year. Nevertheless, it remains somewhat controversial, and sexual medicine experts have debated the possible role of frequent porn viewing in sexual dysfunction, relationship problems, and sexual dissatisfaction.

The Effect of Pornography on Sexual Satisfaction

Ideas for Overcoming Sexual Boredom as a Couple

Sexual boredom, or feeling bored with the sexual aspects of life, can be a common phenomenon, particularly in long-term relationships. Sometimes, even when a romantic relationship is otherwise healthy, the sexual aspect of it can feel predictable, stale, and rote.

Ideas for Overcoming Sexual Boredom as a Couple

The Facts About Vaginal Health and Feminine Hygiene

The microorganisms that inhabit the vagina are known as the vaginal flora or microbiome. Maintaining a healthy vaginal microbiome is important because it can help prevent infection, support fertility, and improve a woman’s quality of life. Unfortunately, not all products and behaviors promoted as “feminine hygiene” have a beneficial effect on the vaginal flora. The following are facts on vaginal health and feminine hygiene to help you sort through some of the most common misconceptions.

The Facts About Vaginal Health and Feminine Hygiene

What Can Cause Orgasm Difficulties in Women?

Orgasm is part of the sexual response cycle for both men and women. It is the point during sexual response in which a person’s blood pressure, heart rate, and breathing reach their maximum rate, along with transient peak sensations of intense pleasure, creating an altered state of consciousness. Typically, orgasm is described as a sudden release of sexual tension accompanied by involuntary muscle contractions, especially those in the pelvic region and around the sexual organs. Women experience contractions in the uterus and vagina, and men have contractions in the muscles at the base of the penis, usually resulting in ejaculation.

What Can Cause Orgasm Difficulties in Women?

Penile Implants From a Partner's Perspective

One of the most frequently asked questions among people who are considering getting a penile prosthesis (implant) to treat erectile dysfunction (ED) is: How will my partner feel about it? Fortunately, research indicates that partners’ responses to penile implants are generally positive and partner satisfaction rates are high.

Penile Implants From a Partner's Perspective

How Prostate Cancer May Affect Sexual Health

The prostate is a gland in the male reproductive system that surrounds the urethra and is about the size of a walnut. It is responsible for making seminal fluid, which is the fluid that sustains and carries sperm.

How Prostate Cancer May Affect Sexual Health

What Are the Most Common Sexual Fantasies?

Sexual fantasies are mental images that trigger arousal or sexual excitement in an individual. Although cultural, societal, and religious influences have often lent a certain taboo to sexual fantasies, they are actually quite common and occur universally.

What Are the Most Common Sexual Fantasies?

What Is Jelqing, and Does It Actually Work?

The term “jelqing” refers to a set of penis stretching exercises that some believe can make the penis bigger. Although the practice has gained attention and popularity in blogs and internet forums in recent years, there is no scientific evidence that it is an effective way to permanently increase the size of one’s penis. In fact, in some cases, jelqing may actually cause damage to the penis, so it is a good idea to get all the facts before setting off to try it.

What Is Jelqing, and Does It Actually Work?

The Sex-Positivity Movement: What it Means to Be Sex-Positive

You may have heard references to “being sex-positive” or “the sex-positivity movement” in popular culture. Various celebrities have brought attention to this movement by speaking out about their beliefs and personal experiences regarding sexuality, sexual health, body positivity, “slut-shaming,” and sexual assault.

The Sex-Positivity Movement: What it Means to Be Sex-Positive

Why Does Sex Hurt?: A Guide for Figuring Out What Might Be Causing Painful Sex

Painful intercourse, or dyspareunia, can be a frustrating, sometimes alienating problem. Many people consider sex to be a private matter and may be reluctant to talk about sexual pain or dysfunction with their health care providers. Nevertheless, because dyspareunia can be caused by injury, an underlying medical condition, or psychological reasons, it is a good idea to consult a health care professional if you experience frequent or long-term pain during intercourse. In the meantime, the following guide may provide a good starting point for determining why sex hurts.*

Why Does Sex Hurt?: A Guide for Figuring Out What Might Be Causing Painful Sex

What Is the Average Penis Size?

If you have ever wondered how your penis compares to others in terms of size, you are not alone. Many men are curious to know how their penises stack up compared to the average. Unfortunately, general curiosity can sometimes give way to full-on obsession and anxiety about penis size. This can be an unhealthy and often unnecessary fixation, especially because most men who think their penises are too small have perfectly normal-sized penises.

What Is the Average Penis Size?

What Is Sensate Focus and How Does It Work?

Sensate focus is a technique used to improve intimacy and communication between partners around sex, reduce sexual performance anxiety, and shift away from ingrained, goal-oriented sexual patterns that may not be serving a couple.

What Is Sensate Focus and How Does It Work?

Outercourse

Outercourse is a word used to describe sexual activities that do not involve penile-vaginal intercourse. It is a highly subjective term that is open to interpretation, so couples who choose to engage in outercourse should make sure that they are on the same page about which activities they want to include in (or exclude from) their sexual experiences. The following guide on outercourse can help you wrap your head around the concept.

Outercourse

The Facts on Pelvic Organ Prolapse

Pelvic organ prolapse (POP) is a type of pelvic floor disorder that can cause painful and unpleasant symptoms for women, including dyspareunia, which is painful sex. It is estimated that about one-third of all women experience a pelvic floor disorder at some point in their lives, ranging from urinary or fecal incontinence (leaking of urine or stool, respectively) to POP. Here are the facts on pelvic organ prolapse.

The Facts on Pelvic Organ Prolapse

Alcohol and Temporary Erectile Dysfunction

Nothing can put a damper on an amorous mood faster than a case of alcohol-related erectile dysfunction (ED), also known in more vulgar terms as “whiskey dick.” While you and your partner may be excited to parlay your margarita buzz into an evening of sex, there could be times when your penis won’t rise to the occasion.   

Alcohol and Temporary Erectile Dysfunction

Q&A on “Blue Ball” Syndrome

Perhaps you have heard the term “blue balls” used to describe sexual frustration in people with male genitals. Still, you may wonder, what exactly is “blue ball” syndrome? Does it really exist? If so, why does it happen? The following is a comprehensive guide on all you need to know about “blue balls.”

Q&A on “Blue Ball” Syndrome

What is the Definition of “Cancer Survivor”?

In 2016, the American Cancer Society (ACS) reported that there are over 15.5 million cancer survivors in the United States. And that number is expected to increase to 20 million by 2026.

But who, exactly, are cancer survivors?

What is the Definition of “Cancer Survivor”?

Treating Peyronie’s Disease Without Surgery

One notable symptom of Peyronie’s disease is the formation of plaques just beneath the skin of the penis. When plaques develop, the penis loses some of its flexibility when erect. The result is a curve that can make intercourse quite difficult.

Treating Peyronie’s Disease Without Surgery

Cancer is “a Relationship Disease”

Experts estimate that up to 90% of gynecologic cancer survivors develop sexual problems from illness and treatment. And often, their partners feel the effects, too.

Cancer is “a Relationship Disease”

Self-Injectable Testosterone Now Available

Men with certain types of hypogonadism (low testosterone) can now administer their own testosterone injections at home, bringing their levels of this hormone into normal ranges.

Xyosted, which delivers testosterone therapy in a special one-use device, was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in October 2018.

Self-Injectable Testosterone Now Available

Phobic Anxiety Linked to Sexual Problems in Breast Cancer Survivors

Sexual function can be difficult after breast cancer treatment. (Learn more.) Many women feel little desire for sex or have trouble becoming lubricated enough for comfortable intercourse. They might have more trouble reaching orgasm than they did before having cancer. And emotional factors, like depression and poor body image, can influence sexuality as well.

Phobic Anxiety Linked to Sexual Problems in Breast Cancer Survivors

Prostate Cancer’s Physical and Emotional Effects May be “Reciprocal”

Undergoing prostate cancer treatment can leave men both physically and emotionally spent. Common approaches like surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and hormone therapy often have side effects, including problems with urinary and bowel function, sexual function, and fatigue.  The stress of a cancer diagnosis and feeling unwell, along with concerns about meeting obligations and planning for the future, may be overwhelming.

Prostate Cancer’s Physical and Emotional Effects May be “Reciprocal”

Sexuality of Older Cancer Survivors

In terms of sexuality, older cancer survivors are not much different from their cancer-free counterparts. But they may be more likely to feel dissatisfied with their sex lives, according to the results of a 2016 study.

Sexuality of Older Cancer Survivors

A Third of Cervical Cancer Survivors Feel Sexual Distress

For cervical cancer survivors, it can be difficult to adjust to changes in sexuality. Pain, poor lubrication, and anxiety are common issues, and it takes time to feel comfortable with sex again. For some women, the situation causes great distress. In fact, a recent study published in the journal Psycho-Oncology estimates that about a third of cervical cancer survivors feel sexual distress.

A Third of Cervical Cancer Survivors Feel Sexual Distress

Prostate Cancer and Sex: Questions to Consider

Prostate cancer and its treatment can have a profound effect on a man’s sex life. There are physical issues to cope with (like erectile dysfunction and fatigue) as well as psychological and emotional ones (like depression and relationship changes). None of these are easy.

Prostate Cancer and Sex: Questions to Consider

Visual Porn Linked to Unrealistic Expectations in the Bedroom

The rise of the internet over the past few decades has made pornography more accessible. Many couples watch it together to add some spice to their relationships. However, what they see depicted in porn videos and what happens in their own bedrooms are usually very different.

Visual Porn Linked to Unrealistic Expectations in the Bedroom

Is Counseling Needed Before Gender Transition?

For people with gender dysphoria, transitioning from one’s birth gender to their desired gender can be a big step. It can involve hormonal treatment as well as surgery. Some professionals recommend a mental health screening and psychotherapy beforehand as part of the process. But is that really necessary?

Is Counseling Needed Before Gender Transition?

Benevolent Sexism and Female Orgasm

Women’s orgasms might be influenced by a type of sexism called “benevolent sexism,” suggests a recent study in the Archives of Sexual Behavior.

Veterans with PTSD More Likely to Have Sexual Dysfunction

It’s not unusual for men and women returning from war to experience post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) – ongoing feelings of stress and anxiety that occur after a traumatic or frightening event. Recently, a team of experts from the United States studied the sexual health of veterans with PTSD.

Veterans with PTSD More Likely to Have Sexual Dysfunction

Medications for BPH: Are Two Drugs Better Than One?

When a man has benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) – an enlarged prostate – he may have trouble with urination. Lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) happen because the tissue in the prostate gland grows inward. Sometimes, it presses on the urethra, making it difficult for urine to leave the body.

Medications for BPH: Are Two Drugs Better Than One?

Sex May Help the Aging Brain

Staying sexually active after age 50 – and into the golden years – might be good for the brain, scientists say.

Sex May Help the Aging Brain

TRT Doesn’t Cause or Worsen Enlarged Prostate Symptoms

Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) doesn’t appear to cause or worsen lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) or an enlarged prostate, according to a review of past research.

An enlarged prostate – also called benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) – is common as men get older. In fact, about half of men in their fifties have an enlarged prostate.

TRT Doesn’t Cause or Worsen Enlarged Prostate Symptoms

Feeling Depressed After Sex

The condition is called postcoital dysphoria (PCD) and it’s not widely understood. Women with PCD may feel depressed, anxious, or argumentative, even if they enjoyed the sexual encounter.

Women Rate Penile Appearance

The “general cosmetic appearance” of a man’s penis is important to women, according to new research published in The Journal of Sexual Medicine.

Testosterone Levels Not Associated with Stroke Risk, Study Shows

Testosterone levels don’t affect a man’s risk of stroke, according to new research.

Scientists from Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine presented their findings in March at the annual meeting of the Endocrine Society, held in San Diego, California.

Testosterone Levels Not Associated with Stroke Risk, Study Shows

Suicide Risk among Genitourinary Cancer Patients

For some of us, taking care of our cancer patients involves the physical care. We might recommend surgery for our prostate cancer patients. Or we might order a certain chemotherapy regimen for a woman with ovarian cancer. Of course, we know that their mental health is extremely important, but we tend to focus on our area of expertise.

Suicide Risk among Genitourinary Cancer Patients

Hormonal Changes in Expectant Fathers

New research suggests that fathers-to-be experience declines in certain hormones when their partners are expecting a baby.

Hormonal changes are expected in pregnant women. But scientists from University of Michigan wanted to take a closer look at what changes men go through during their partner’s pregnancy.

Study Examines Brain Activity of Sex Addicts

Brains of men with compulsive sexual behavior – sometimes called sex addiction –share some similarities with the brains of drug addicts, according to a recent study published in the journal PLOS One.

Study Examines Brain Activity of Sex Addicts

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Other Popular Articles

What Is Jelqing, and Does It Actually Work?

The term “jelqing” refers to a set of penis stretching exercises that some believe can make the penis bigger. Although the practice has gained attention and popularity in blogs and internet forums in recent years, there is no scientific evidence that it is an effective way to permanently increase the size of one’s penis. In fact, in some cases, jelqing may actually cause damage to the penis, so it is a good idea to get all the facts before setting off to try it.

What Is Sensate Focus and How Does It Work?

Sensate focus is a technique used to improve intimacy and communication between partners around sex, reduce sexual performance anxiety, and shift away from ingrained, goal-oriented sexual patterns that may not be serving a couple.

What Is the Average Penis Size?

If you have ever wondered how your penis compares to others in terms of size, you are not alone. Many men are curious to know how their penises stack up compared to the average. Unfortunately, general curiosity can sometimes give way to full-on obsession and anxiety about penis size. This can be an unhealthy and often unnecessary fixation, especially because most men who think their penises are too small have perfectly normal-sized penises.

Can Sex Reduce Menstrual Cramps?

The SMSNA periodically receives and publishes ‘guest editorials.’ The current article was submitted by Mia Barnes, a freelance writer and researcher who specializes in women's health, wellness, and healthy living. She is the Founder and Editor-in-Chief of Body+Mind Magazine.

Having sex while you experience menstrual cramps is healthy and can provide significant benefits. While it might not be the first activity that comes to mind when your PMS or period cramping begins, many people enjoy sex to reduce menstrual cramps, experience increased pleasure and benefit from other advantages. Learn more about having sex while menstrual cramps are happening and how it can help your body.

What Is Edging and Why Do People Do It?

Edging is the practice of stopping sexual stimulation before reaching orgasm to prolong a sexual experience. The term stems from the concept of approaching the metaphorical “edge” of orgasm but stopping before going over the edge.

Can Sex Throw off Your Vaginal pH Balance?

The SMSNA periodically receives and publishes ‘guest editorials.’ The current article was submitted by Mia Barnes, a freelance writer and researcher who specializes in women's health, wellness, and healthy living. She is the Founder and Editor-in-Chief of Body+Mind Magazine.

Your vagina is a pretty powerful organ. It is a pathway for menstrual blood and babies. It also is a main player in sexual intercourse. You might hear about your vagina’s pH and worry that yours is at risk. Here’s what to know about vaginal pH, including the impacts sex could have.

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