It is natural for a person’s sexual desire to fluctuate over the course of their lifetime and/or in response to certain life events (e.g., pregnancy, changes in a romantic relationship, big life transitions, etc.) Nevertheless, having consistently low or absent sexual desire with no identifiable cause can be a frustrating problem for individuals that may be consistent with a diagnosis of hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD).

Introduction

Prostate cancer can have a negative effect on a man’s sexual health, and an estimated 85% of prostate cancer survivors report sexual dysfunction in the form of erectile dysfunction (ED), changes in orgasm, anejaculation, sexual incontinence, changes in penile length or shape (including increased penile curvature), and decreased libido.

Sexual health is important and any concerns can be openly shared with a healthcare provider. Check out the newest #AskISSM video to hear experts in the field of sexual medicine explain some common misunderstandings regarding female sexual health that patients may have. 

Vaginismus is a sexual health condition under the umbrella of genito-pelvic pain/penetration disorder (GPPPD) that causes a vulva owner’s pelvic floor muscles to contract in response to attempted penetration, making penetration difficult, painful, or even impossible.

Delayed ejaculation (DE) is a condition in which it takes an individual an unusually long period of time to ejaculate during partnered sexual activity. Some people with DE may find that they are unable to ejaculate at all during partnered sexual activity.

If you and your partner are interested in having anal sex, it is a good idea to be prepared. Although anal sex is mostly safe if you take the appropriate precautions, there are still some risks associated with the activity. The following are some risks associated with anal sex, as well as tips on how to limit these risks to have the most safe, enjoyable experience possible.

Vulvodynia is a distressing medical condition that is defined as vulvar pain that lasts for at least three months without an identifiable cause. People with vulvodynia often describe their symptoms as burning, itching, cutting, stinging, and lacerating. They may experience difficulty or pain with sexual activity, tampon insertion, gynecological examinations, and urination.

In our latest ISSM podcast episode, our host Shelly Varod engaged in a conversation with Tami Rowen, a renowned obstetrician and gynecologist from the USA. The interview delved into the topic of how menopause affects a woman's sex drive and offers valuable insights. 
This ISSM Podcast is a production of the ISSM Podcast Team with Cobi Reisman, Shelly Varod, Sameena Rahman and Karl Pang.

Anxiety or shame may cause men with erectile dysfunction to suffer in silence. Check out this new video from the ISSM where sexual health experts discuss what patients need to know about ED and how to feel empowered to discuss it with your provider. 

Sex may change over the course of a person’s life, but that doesn’t mean it has to go away. Many people in their senior years (70+) are continuing to enjoy satisfying sex with their sexual partners. The following are a few ways that older individuals can continue to have great sex.

Gender minority individuals, including transgender people, experience higher rates of mental health problems than the general public. Discrimination, violence, and the enduring stigma around gender diversity can all contribute to the increased rate of mental health problems in the gender diverse community. This phenomenon is known in some circles as gender minority stress.

Menstruation is the shedding of blood and tissue from the lining of the uterus that occurs approximately once a month in people who have uteruses until they reach menopause. It is one phase of the menstrual cycle, which includes menstruation, the follicular phase, ovulation, and the luteal phase. Sometimes, menstruation is called menses, a menstrual period, or simply a period.