Sexual Health Archive

It's possible for people of any age to contract sexually transmitted infections (STIs). STIs are sometimes symptom-free, making them easy to miss, pass along, and ignore.

Chemotherapy treatment in women can diminish hormone levels that affect sexual health and intimacy. It can also alter self-image, sex drive, and emotions. Research suggests anywhere from 40% to 100% of cancer survivors struggle with sexual dysfunction.

Low libido, erectile dysfunction, fatigue, reduced muscle mass, hot flashes, and more may be symptoms of testosterone deficiency. Testing can help determine the diagnosis, and testosterone replacement therapy may help counter the decline in the hormone.

When medications and lifestyle changes no longer control symptoms of an enlarged prostate, a range of surgical and minimally invasive procedures can restore urine flow. Each option offers different trade-offs in side effects, recovery, and duration of relief.

Genitourinary syndrome of menopause, or GSM, was once called vaginal atrophy. But experts changed the name to better reflect the full scope of symptoms, which include vaginal thinning and dryness; burning, irritation, and itching; pain during intercourse; urinary issues such as increased urgency and frequency; and higher risk of urinary tract infections. The majority of women with GSM symptoms don't discuss it with their doctors. But a Harvard expert says they should, since GSM is progressive and can lead to dangerous problems.