A permanent intestinal ostomy is a surgical procedure for which a small opening is made in the abdomen to redirect waste from the intestines out of the body, usually into a pouch worn outside the body. It is typically done when the lower part of the intestines or rectum is removed or not functional, helping people with conditions like colorectal cancer, Crohn’s disease, or ulcerative colitis to manage their bowel movements. It is a lifelong solution, and although it may take some adjustment, it can greatly improve the quality of life for those who need it.

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a sexual health issue characterized by the consistent struggle to get or keep an erection. It can affect individuals with penises around the world, and it is often assessed using the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-5).

Sjögren’s syndrome (SS) is an autoimmune disease that primarily affects women, causing dryness in the mouth and eyes, but also impacting other areas like the vagina. It can occur alone (primary SS) or alongside other autoimmune conditions (secondary SS).

Erectile dysfunction (ED), or the inability to get and maintain an erection long enough for satisfying sexual activity, affects many men. It can be due to various causes such as nerve damage or vascular issues, which can lead to inflammation, formation of fibrous tissue in the penis, venous leak, and the eventual loss of erectile function.

Vulvovaginal atrophy (VVA), also known as genitourinary syndrome of menopause, encompasses anatomical and functional changes in vaginal tissue affecting 60-80% of postmenopausal women. It involves symptoms such as vaginal dryness, irritation, and painful intercourse, negatively impacting sexual well-being and quality of life. Traditional treatments for VVA include topical agents and hormone therapy.

Sexual dysfunction, affecting 40%-45% of women, has significant negative impacts on physical and mental health, relationships, self-esteem, and quality of life. Despite its prevalence, it often goes untreated. Multiple factors contribute to sexual dysfunction, including pelvic floor muscle (PFM) issues.

The subjective orgasm experience (SOE) refers to the personal perception and assessment of sensations experienced during orgasm on a psychological level. It is important in sexual relationships, and it is linked to satisfaction and sexual health.

Sexual aversion disorder (SAD) is characterized by extreme fear, disgust, and avoidance of sexual contact and activities. Despite no longer being classified as a separate disorder in recent medical guidelines, SAD remains common and can have significant negative impacts on individuals’ well-being and relationships. Traditional methods of assessing SAD, like interviews and self-report measures, have limitations such as subjectivity and difficulty in exploring sensitive sexual experiences.

In 1965, Medicare and Medicaid were established in the U.S. to assist elderly and low-income citizens with healthcare costs. Medicare then expanded to cover more groups like disabled individuals and those needing hospice care.

As of June 2023, the prevalence of COVID-19 in the U.S. has varied, impacting health and psychosocial aspects, along with indirect effects like social distancing. While the effects of COVID-19 on sexual functioning in men are better known, its impact on women is less understood.

“Blue balls” is a term ingrained in our cultural lexicon, often referring to testicular discomfort experienced in the testicles due to prolonged sexual arousal without release. While widely recognized, its medical legitimacy remains dubious. Despite being referenced in popular culture and media, scientific literature on the subject is scarce.

Endometriosis is a common condition in people assigned female at birth of childbearing age where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus. This condition affects about 10% of individuals assigned female at birth.