Puberty suppression (PS) with gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonists (GnRHa) has become a key part of gender-affirming medical treatment (GAMT) for transgender adolescents. This treatment helps delay unwanted sexual characteristics, like facial hair or a deep voice for transfeminine individuals, and it gives them more time to explore their gender identity before undertaking further medical steps. (One such step could be a gender-affirming surgery like a vaginoplasty).

As sexual medicine evolves, non-pharmacologic tools like penile constriction devices (commonly called “cock rings”) offer options to enhance sexual experiences or help with erectile dysfunction (ED). These devices are worn at the base of the penis to improve rigidity and prolong erections by restricting blood flow out of the penis. While such devices have existed for centuries, their use became more mainstream in the 1970s. They’re now available in various materials and designs, some with advanced features like vibration or data tracking.

Vulvodynia is a chronic pain condition affecting the vulva that lasts at least three months and has no clear cause. A common type, localized provoked vulvodynia (LPV), involves pain triggered by contact, such as sitting, wearing tight clothes, or sexual activity. This condition can significantly impact physical and emotional health, relationships, and quality of life. Despite vulvar pain affecting an estimated 10%-28% of women, many do not seek treatment, leading to underreported prevalence.

Genito-pelvic pain/penetration disorder (GPPPD) is a condition that can cause significant distress, affecting activities like tampon use, gynecological exams, and sexual intercourse. It involves pain, muscle tightness, and anxiety related to vaginal penetration and may lead to reduced sexual desire and emotional challenges like anxiety and depression. Despite its prevalence, diagnosing and treating GPPPD has been difficult due to the lack of effective assessment tools.

Chronic pain, defined as pain lasting more than three months, affects one in five adults worldwide and often disrupts daily life and emotional well-being. It’s also linked to sexual well-being (SWB), a crucial part of quality of life. While past research has focused mostly on the effect of chronic pain on narrow aspects of sexual function (like arousal), a new study explored broader aspects of SWB, including sexual satisfaction, self-esteem, and motivation.

Intravaginal ejaculation latency time (IELT) measures the time from penetration to ejaculation during sex and is often used to diagnose and treat premature ejaculation (PE). PE is typically defined by a short IELT (less than 1 minute for lifelong PE or under 3 minutes for acquired PE) accompanied by distress or difficulty delaying ejaculation. Although research often focuses on IELT improvements with treatment, little is known about how men with PE perceive a “normal” IELT or what they expect from treatment outcomes.

Some people engage in sex not because they want to but out of a sense of duty or obligation to their partner. This is known as “duty sex,” which can stem from feelings of pressure, fear of disappointing a partner, or a belief that it’s simply part of the relationship. Research specifically on women shows that those who have experienced nonconsensual sexual events (NSEs), such as sexual pressure or assault, are more likely to engage in duty sex. These experiences may shape how they view sex, making them feel less satisfied and more likely to prioritize a partner’s expectations over their own desires.

When people think about sexual health, they often focus on the idea of orgasm as the ultimate goal of intimacy. However, recent discussions in the field of sexual medicine, including insights from a publication in The Journal of Sexual Medicine, suggest that sexual pleasure is a broader and equally important concept. This distinction may help reshape how we think about healthy sexuality.

Diverse sexual practices, including BDSM (Bondage, Discipline, Dominance, Submission, Sadism, and Masochism), are more common than many realize. Studies show that over 30% of people have engaged in kink-related activities, and many have fantasies involving elements like bondage or power exchange. Central to BDSM is consent, with participants agreeing on activities beforehand to ensure safety and mutual enjoyment. However, some BDSM activities may carry risks, such as bruises or cuts, similar to injuries that can occur during non-BDSM sexual activities.

Sexual health is essential to overall well-being, yet healthcare providers often do not discuss it with patients, even when it may be relevant. Patients may hesitate to bring up sexual concerns due to worries about privacy, fear of offending or overstepping, doubts about the provider’s ability to handle the topic, or hoping the provider will address it if necessary. For people with anxiety disorders, these issues can be even more pronounced. Anxiety disorders are common globally and often correlate with sexual issues like lower satisfaction and increased dysfunction, which can negatively impact relationships and quality of life.

Labiaplasty is a cosmetic surgery to alter the labia minora, or the inner folds of skin around the vaginal opening. It’s the most common type of female genital cosmetic surgery and is becoming more popular. Women might consider this procedure due to aesthetic concerns, physical discomfort (e.g., chafing or issues with tight clothing), psychological impacts (like low self-esteem or fear of judgment), and sexual concerns. Some reported sexual concerns related to labiaplasty include entry pain during sex (dyspareunia), reduced sexual satisfaction, and embarrassment about genital appearance, which can affect one’s sexual experiences and confidence.

Sexual distress describes negative feelings like frustration or dissatisfaction about one’s sexual experiences. This is a common issue for those seeking sex therapy, and it often impacts mental health, relationships, and overall quality of life.