STAYING SEXUALLY HEALTHY

Sexually Transmitted Infections STIs

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are infections that are spread through sexual contact. It is important to get tested regularly for STIs if you are sexually active. If left untreated, STIs can cause serious health issues. Listed below are common STIs along with their symptoms and treatments. If you are experiencing any unusual symptoms or think you may have an STI, please schedule an appointment.

Low Sex Drive In Women

Overview
Women's sexual desires naturally fluctuate over the years. Highs and lows commonly coincide with the beginning or end of a relationship or with major life changes, such as pregnancy, menopause or illness. Some medications used for mood disorders also can cause low sex drive in women.

If your lack of interest in sex continues or returns and causes personal distress, you may have a condition called sexual interest/arousal disorder.

But you don't have to meet this medical definition to seek help. If you're bothered by a low sex drive or decreased sex drive, there are lifestyle changes and sexual techniques that may put you in the mood more often. Some medications may offer promise as well.

Symptoms
If you want to have sex less often than your partner does, neither one of you is
necessarily outside the norm for people at your stage in life — although your
differences may cause distress.

Similarly, even if your sex drive is weaker than it once was, your relationship may be stronger than ever. Bottom line: There is no magic number to define low sex drive. It varies among women.

Symptoms of low sex drive in women include:

Having no interest in any type of sexual activity, including masturbation Never or only seldom having sexual fantasies or thoughts
Being concerned by your lack of sexual activity or fantasies

When to see a doctor

If you're concerned by your low desire for sex, talk to your doctor. The solution could
be as simple as changing a medication you are taking and improving any chronic
medical conditions such as high blood pressure or diabetes.

Causes
Desire for sex is based on a complex interaction of many things affecting intimacy,
including physical and emotional well-being, experiences, beliefs, lifestyle, and your
current relationship. If you're experiencing a problem in any of these areas, it can affect your desire for sex.

Physical causes
A wide range of illnesses, physical changes and medications can cause a low sex drive, including:

Sexual problems. If you have pain during sex or can't orgasm, it can reduce your desire for sex.
Medical diseases. Many nonsexual diseases can affect sex drive, including arthritis, cancer, diabetes, high blood pressure, coronary artery disease and neurological diseases.
Medications. Certain prescription drugs, especially antidepressants called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, are known to lower the sex drive.
Lifestyle habits. A glass of wine may put you in the mood, but too much alcohol can affect your sex drive. The same is true of street drugs. Also, smoking decreases blood flow, which may dull arousal.
Surgery. Any surgery related to your breasts or genital tract can affect your body image, sexual function and desire for sex.
Fatigue. Exhaustion from caring for young children or aging parents can contribute to low sex drive. Fatigue from illness or surgery also can play a role in a low sex drive.

Hormone changes
Changes in your hormone levels may alter your desire for sex. This can occur during:

Menopause. Estrogen levels drop during the transition to menopause. This can make you less interested in sex and cause dry vaginal tissues, resulting in painful or uncomfortable sex. Although many women still have satisfying sex during menopause and beyond, some experience a lagging libido during this hormonal change.
Pregnancy and breast-feeding. Hormone changes during pregnancy, just after having a baby and during breast-feeding can put a damper on sex drive. Fatigue, changes in body image, and the pressures of pregnancy or caring for a new baby also can contribute to changes in your sexual desire.

Psychological causes
Your state of mind can affect your sexual desire. There are many psychological causes of low sex drive, including:

Mental health problems, such as anxiety or depression Stress, such as financial stress or work stress, poor body image, low self-esteem.
History of physical or sexual abuse Previous negative sexual experiences

Relationship issues

For many women, emotional closeness is an essential prelude to sexual intimacy.
Problems in your relationship can be a major factor in low sex drive. Decreased interest in sex is often a result of ongoing issues, such as:

Lack of connection with your partner
Unresolved conflicts or fights
Poor communication of sexual needs and preferences.
Trust issues

Contraception

BIRTH CONTROL METHODS

Many elements need to be considered by women, men, or couples at any given point in their lifetimes when choosing the most appropriate contraceptive method. These elements include safety, effectiveness, availability (including accessibility and affordability), and acceptability. Voluntary informed choice of contraceptive methods is an essential guiding principle, and contraceptive counseling, when applicable, might be an important contributor to the successful use of contraceptive methods.

In choosing a method of contraception, dual protection with condoms from the simultaneous risk for HIV and other STDs also should be considered. Although hormonal contraceptives and IUDs are highly effective at preventing pregnancy, they do not protect against STDs, including HIV. Consistent and correct use of the male latex condom reduces the risk for HIV infection and other STDs, including chlamydial infection, gonococcal infection, and trichomoniasis.

Talking to Your Partner

Talking about your sexual needs can help bring you and your partner closer together and promote sexual fulfillment. Try these tips for talking to your partner.

Women's sexual health, like men's, is important to emotional and physical well-being. But achieving a satisfying sex life takes self-reflection and candid communication with your partner. Although talking about sexuality can be difficult, it's a topic well worth addressing.

For help in talking about sex with your partner, follow this guide.

Many people think that your body's physical desire for sex motivates sexual activity, which leads to sexual arousal and then orgasm. Although this might be true for most men, it's not necessarily true for most women. Different factors help many women feel aroused and desire sex, and different factors dampen desire.

For many women, particularly those who are older than 40 or who have gone through menopause, physical desire isn't the primary motivation for sex. A woman might be motivated to have sex to feel close to her partner or to show her feelings.

Sexual satisfaction differs for everyone. Many factors influence sexual response, including how you feel about your partner, how you feel about yourself, your health, and your religious and cultural upbringing. If you have concerns about your sex life, or you just want to find ways to enhance it, a good first step is talking with your partner.

It might not be easy for you to talk about your sexual desires, but your partner can't read your mind. Sharing your thoughts and expectations about your sexual experiences can bring you closer and help you achieve greater sexual enjoyment.

To get started:

Admit your discomfort. If you feel anxious, say so. Opening up about your concerns might help you start the conversation. Tell your partner if you feel shy about discussing what you want and ask for reassurance that your partner is open to the conversation.
Start talking. Talking might help you increase your confidence and comfort level.
Set a time limit. Avoid overwhelming each other with a lengthy talk. By devoting 15-minute conversations to the topic, you might find it easier to stay within your emotional comfort zones.
Talk regularly. Your conversations about sex will get easier the more you talk.
Use a book or movie. Invite your partner to read a book about women's sexual health or recommend chapters or sections that address your questions and concerns. You might also use a movie scene as a starting point for a discussion.

When you're talking to your partner about your sexual needs, try to be specific. Consider addressing these topics:

Time. Are you setting aside enough time for sexual intimacy? If not, what can you do to change things? How can you make sexual intimacy a priority? Think about how you and your partner can support each other to help create time and energy for sex.
Your relationship. Talk about challenges between you and your partner that might be interfering with sex, and ways that you can address them.
Romance. Do you and your partner have the same definition of romance? Is it missing? How can you reignite it? How can romance set the stage for sexual intimacy?
Pleasure. What gives you individual and mutual enjoyment? Be open to hearing your partner's requests and coming up with compromises if one of you is uncomfortable with the other's requests. Talk about what sexual activities make you uncomfortable.
Routine. Has sex become too routine or predictable? What changes might you make? For instance, explore different times to have sex or try new techniques.

Consider more cuddling, a sensual massage, self-stimulation, oral sex or using a vibrator — depending on what interests you. Talk about what you like, what you don't like and what you'd like to try.

Emotional intimacy. Sex is more than a physical act — it's also an opportunity for emotional connection, which builds closeness in a relationship. Try to take the pressure off each other when it comes to having sexual intercourse or achieving orgasm. Enjoy touching each other, kissing, and feeling physically and emotionally close.
Physical and emotional changes. Are physical changes, such as an illness, weight gain, changes after surgery or hormonal changes, affecting your sex life? Also address emotional factors that might be interfering with your enjoyment of sex, such as being stressed or depressed.
Beliefs. Discuss your beliefs and expectations about sex. Consider whether misconceptions — such as the idea that women become less sexual after menopause — are affecting your sex life.

Sexual needs vary. Many factors can affect your sexual appetite, including stress, illness, aging and family, career and social commitments. Whatever the cause, differences in sexual desire between partners can sometimes lead to feelings of isolation, frustration, rejection or resentment.

Talk to your partner about:

Your intimacy needs. Intimacy is more than just sexual needs. Intimacy also includes emotional, spiritual, physical and recreational needs. If your emotional intimacy needs aren't being met, you might be less interested in sex. Think about what your partner could do to enhance your emotional intimacy and talk about it openly and honestly.
Your differences in sexual desire. In any long-term relationship, couples might experience differing levels of sexual desire. Discuss your differences and try to explore options that will satisfy both of you.

If your difficulty persists, consider turning to a doctor or sex therapist for help. If you take medications that might affect your desire for sex, review your medications with your doctor. Your doctor may be able to suggest an alternative.

Likewise, if a physical sign or symptom — such as vaginal dryness — is interfering with your sexual enjoyment, ask about treatment options. For example, a lubricant or other medication can help with vaginal dryness associated with hormonal changes or other factors.

Condoms: Do's and Dont's

Condom Dos and Don’ts

DO use a condom every time you have sex.
DO put on a condom before having sex.
DO read the package and check the expiration date.
DO make sure there are no tears or defects.
DO store condoms in a cool, dry place.
DO use latex or polyurethane condoms.
DO use water-based or silicone-based lubricant to prevent breakage.
DON’T store condoms in your wallet as heat and friction can damage them.
DON’T use nonoxynol-9 (a spermicide), as this can cause irritation.
DON’T use oil-based products like baby oil, lotion, petroleum jelly, or cooking oil because they will cause the condom to break.
DON’T use more than one condom at a time.
DON’T reuse a condom.

How To Put On and Take Off a Male Condom

Carefully open and remove condom from wrapper.
Place condom on the head of the erect, hard penis. If uncircumcised, pull back the foreskin first.
Pinch air out of the tip of the condom.
Unroll condom all the way down the penis.
After sex but before pulling out, hold the condom at the base. Then pull out, while holding the condom in place.
Carefully remove the condom and throw it in the trash.

Low Sex Drive Causes, Symptoms & Treatments

Diagnosis

You may be diagnosed with hypoactive sexual desire disorder if you frequently lack
sexual thoughts or desire, and the absence of these feelings causes personal distress.

Whether you fit this medical diagnosis or not, your doctor can look for reasons that
your sex drive isn't as high as you'd like and find ways to help.

In addition to asking you questions about your medical and sexual history, your doctor may also:

Perform a pelvic exam. During a pelvic exam, your doctor can check for signs of physical changes contributing to low sexual desire, such as thinning of your genital tissues, vaginal dryness or pain-triggering spots.
Recommend testing. Your doctor may order blood tests to check hormone levels and check for thyroid problems, diabetes, high cholesterol and liver disorders.
Refer you to a specialist. A specialized counselor or sex therapist may be able to better evaluate emotional and relationship factors that can cause low sex drive.

Treatment

Most women benefit from a treatment approach aimed at the many causes behind this condition. Recommendations may include sex education, counseling, and

sometimes medication and hormone therapy.

Sex Education and counseling

Talking with a sex therapist or counselor skilled in addressing sexual concerns can help with low sex drive. Therapy often includes education about sexual response and techniques. Your therapist or counselor likely will provide recommendations for reading materials or couples' exercises. Couples counseling that addresses relationship issues may also help increase feelings of intimacy and desire.

Medication

Your doctor will want to review the medications you're already taking, to see if any of them tend to cause sexual side effects. For example, antidepressants such as
paroxetine (Paxil) and fluoxetine (Prozac, Sarafem) may lower sex drive. Switching to
bupropion (Wellbutrin SR, Wellbutrin XL) — a different type of antidepressant —
usually improves sex drive and is sometimes prescribed for women with sexual
interest/arousal disorder.

Along with counseling, your doctor may prescribe a medication to boost your libido.
Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved options for premenopausal women
include:

Flibanserin (Addyi), a pill that you take once a day at bedtime. Side effects include low blood pressure, dizziness, nausea and fatigue. Drinking alcohol or taking fluconazole (Diflucan), a common medication to treat vaginal yeast infections, can make these side effects worse.
Bremelanotide (Vyleesi), an injection you give yourself just under the skin in the belly or thigh before anticipated sexual activity. Some women experience nausea, which is more common after the first injection but tends to improve with the second injection. Other side effects include vomiting, flushing, headache and a skin reaction at the site of the injection.

These medications aren't FDA-approved for use in postmenopausal women.

Hormone Therapy

Dryness or shrinking of the vagina, one of the hallmark signs of genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM), might make sex uncomfortable and, in turn, reduce your desire. Certain hormone medications that aim to relieve GSM symptoms could help make sex more comfortable. And being more comfortable during sex may improve your desire.

Possible hormone therapies include:

Estrogen. Estrogen is available in many forms, including pills, patches, sprays and gels. Smaller doses of estrogen are found in vaginal creams and a slow-releasing suppository or ring. Your doctor can help you understand the risks and benefits of each form. But, estrogen won't improve sexual functioning related to hypoactive sexual desire disorder.
Testosterone. The male hormone testosterone plays an important role in female sexual function, even though testosterone occurs in much lower amounts in women. Testosterone isn't approved by the FDA for sexual dysfunction in women, but sometimes it's prescribed off-label to help lift a lagging libido. The use of testosterone in women is controversial. Taking it can cause acne, excess body hair, and mood or personality changes.
Prasterone (Intrarosa). This vaginal insert delivers the hormone dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) directly to the vagina to help ease painful sex. You use this medication nightly to ease the symptoms of moderate to severe vaginal dryness associated with GSM. Ospemifene (Osphena). Taken daily, this pill can help relieve painful sex symptoms in women with moderate to severe GSM. This medication isn't approved in women who have had breast cancer or who have a high risk of developing breast cancer.

Lifestyle and Home Remedies

Healthy lifestyle changes can make a big difference in your desire for sex:

Exercise. Regular aerobic exercise and strength training can increase your stamina, improve your body image, lift your mood and boost your libido.

Stress less. Finding a better way to cope with work stress, financial stress and daily hassles can enhance your sex drive.
Communicate with your partner. Couples who learn to communicate in an open, honest way usually maintain a stronger emotional connection, which can lead to better sex. Communicating about sex also is important. Talking about your likes and dislikes can set the stage for greater sexual intimacy.
Set aside time for intimacy. Scheduling sex into your calendar may seem contrived and boring. But making intimacy a priority can help put your sex drive back on track.
Add a little spice to your sex life. Try a different sexual position, a different time of day or a different location for sex. Ask your partner to spend more time on foreplay. If you and your partner are open to experimentation, sex toys and fantasy can help rekindle your sexual desire.
Ditch bad habits. Smoking, illegal drugs and excess alcohol can all dampen your sex drive. Ditching these bad habits may help give your sex drive a boost and improve your overall health.

Alternative medicine
Talking about low sex drive with a doctor may be difficult for some women. Some women may turn to over-the-counter herbal supplements. However, the FDA doesn't regulate such products, and in many cases, they haven't been well-studied. Herbal supplements can have side effects or interact with other medications you may be taking. Always talk with a doctor before using them.

One herbal supplement blend is called Avlimil. This product has estrogen-like effects on the body. While estrogen may boost your sex drive, it may also fuel the growth of certain breast cancers.

Another choice is a botanical massage oil called Zestra. It's applied to the clitoris, labia and vagina. One small study found that Zestra increased arousal and pleasure when compared with a placebo oil. The only reported side effect was mild burning in the genital area.

Coping and support

Low sex drive can be very difficult for you and your partner. It's natural to feel frustrated or sad if you aren't able to be as sexy and romantic as you want or you used to be.

At the same time, low sex drive can make your partner feel rejected, which can lead to conflicts and strife. And this type of relationship turmoil can further reduce desire for sex.

It may help to remember that fluctuations in the sex drive are a normal part of every relationship and every stage of life. Try not to focus all your attention on sex. Instead, spend some time nurturing yourself and your relationship.

Go for a long walk. Get a little extra sleep. Kiss your partner goodbye before you head out the door. Make a date night at your favorite restaurant. Feeling good about yourself and your partner can be the best foreplay.

Preparing for your appointment

Primary care doctors and gynecologists often ask about sex and intimacy as part of a routine medical visit. Take this opportunity to be candid about your sexual concerns.

If your doctor doesn't broach the subject, bring it up. You may feel embarrassed to talk about sex with your doctor, but this topic is perfectly appropriate. In fact, your sexual satisfaction is a vital part of your overall health and well-being.

What you can do:

To prepare for this discussion with your doctor:

Take note of any sexual problems you're experiencing, including when and how often you usually experience them.

Make a list of your key medical information, including any conditions for which you're being treated, and the names of all medications, vitamins or supplements you're taking.

Consider questions to ask your doctor and write them down. Bring along notepaper and a pen to jot down information as your doctor addresses your questions.

Some basic questions to ask your doctor include:

What could be causing my problem?

Will my level of desire ever get back to what it once was?

What lifestyle changes can I make to improve my situation?

What treatments are available?

What books or other reading materials can you recommend?

Questions your doctor may ask:

Your doctor will ask questions about the symptoms you're experiencing and assess your hormonal status. Questions your doctor may ask include:

Do you have any sexual concerns?

Has your interest in sex changed?

Do you have trouble becoming aroused?

Do you experience vaginal dryness?

Are you able to have an orgasm?

Do you have any pain or discomfort during sex?

How much distress do you feel about your sexual concerns?

How long have you experienced this problem?

Are you still having menstrual periods?

Have you ever been treated for cancer?

Have you had any gynecological surgeries?

Everything You Need to Know About Sex Toy Care and Cleanliness

From maintenance to materials, here are the basics on keeping things safe and sexy. When choosing and caring for a sex toy, there are a few things to consider regarding safety.

The sex toy business is hot, hot, hot. Current estimates say it is a nearly $30 billion industry — and that could jump to more than $50 billion by 2026. These days, everyone is in on the action, from solo users to couples, millennials to baby boomers. Physicians even recommend sex toys for health purposes.

Sex toy safety, however, isn’t always top of mind, although experts say it should be. For one, the sex toy industry isn’t regulated by watchdogs groups like the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) or Consumer Product Safety Commission, which means there is no one ensuring that toys are safe. And sex toys are, of course, used in very intimate ways.

So how can you protect yourself while enjoying all the fun that sex toys have to offer?

Here are five crucial safety tips every savvy sex toy consumer should be aware of.

Know What Materials Your Toys Are Made Of

DEHP phthalates plasticizer molecules are commonly used to make plastic flexible. Although there is not scientific literature analyzing the body safety of various sex toy materials, there are some materials that consumers may choose to avoid. Some toys are made with phthalates. These chemicals, which are present in some plastics, have been banned for use in such products as children’s toys and pacifiers because they may disrupt human hormones. The FDA says it is unclear what (if any) impact phthalates have on human health. But if you have made a personal decision to avoid them elsewhere in your life — for example, your cosmetics — it is important to know they could be lurking in your sex toys.

Many products state they are phthalate-free, but because the industry is largely unregulated, no outside organization checks the veracity of those claims. So, one thing to keep in mind is whether the toys you are using are soft and jellylike. Phthalates are used as softeners. They are more likely to be present in squishier toys, made from more porous materials.

Porous sex toys are also “more likely to transmit infection,” says Alyssa Dweck, MD, a gynecologist based in Westchester County, New York, and author of The Complete A to Z for Your V. That is because their surfaces are more permeable.

That does not mean there is any research literature out there that says jellylike sex toys are inherently unsafe, but it is something to be aware of.

Wash — and Dry — Your Sex Toys Regularly

Like, regularly. “Sex toys should be cleaned between every sex act and in between every partner,” Dr. Dweck says.

You probably know that sexual activity increases a woman’s risk for urinary tract infections (UTI); you may not realize that the bacteria that cause a UTI live in the area around the anus. Sex increases the chances that the nearby bacteria migrate into a woman’s urethra, where they can multiply and trigger a UTI.

UTI prevention calls for strict genital hygiene, which includes keeping anything that comes into contact with sensitive areas as germ-free as possible. That’s why Planned Parenthood’s website warns, “Anything that touches or goes into your anus — like a finger, penis, or sex toy — should be thoroughly washed before touching other genitals.”

Toys can also spread infections, including sexually transmitted infections (STIs), because they can retain bacteria and viruses.

In addition, sex toys can get covered in dust and other particles while they’re stored.

Your toy’s manufacturer should be your first stop for washing instructions. Some toys can go in the dishwasher, for example. Others cannot. Soapy warm water is a good place to start.

And be careful to dry them, too. Damp toys can grow mold.

Consider a Condom to Reduce the Risk of Infection

Condoms most certainly should be used to cover penis-shaped toys for people who are sharing toys with a partner. That is because even if you diligently clean your toys, there is still a chance of transmitting infection. A study published in November 2014 in the journal Sexually Transmitted Infections found traces of the human papillomavirus on vibrators a full day after they’d been used and cleaned.

The condom should be switched out if you change the body parts coming into contact with the toy, so from oral use to vaginal use, for example

Frequently Asked Questions

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How often is it normal to have sex?

“Normal” is whatever feels fulfilling for you and your partner, and communication plays a key role in making sure both parties feel fulfilled.

A healthy sex life doesn't center on how many times you have sex or even how often you orgasm. Good sex centers around intimacy, and sometimes a good massage or holding each other can be enough. Alternatively, this type of touching can add to sexual chemistry, an important part of intimacy.

What happens if you don't have sex for a long time?

If you do not have sex on a regular basis, you are at a higher risk of developing cardiovascular disease. In addition to being a source of exercise, sexual intercourse helps keep your estrogen and progesterone levels in balance, which can lower your risk of heart disease.

I'm having a problem with sex. Is this normal?

Yes. About 4 in 10 women have problems with sex at some point during their lives. If you are having a sexual problem, and it is worrying or upsetting you, you may want to find a solution. Some problems can be solved by you alone, with a partner, or with the help of a gynecologist or other health care professional.

What causes sexual problems in women?

Some common causes of sexual problems in women include the following:

Hormonal changes at certain times in a woman’s life, such as during pregnancy or menopause
Cancer treatments and their side effects
Some illnesses and medications
Relationship problems with your partner
Past negative experiences
Depression, anxiety or stress

What types of sexual problems affect women?

“Female sexual dysfunction” is a general term for a problem with sex. The problem can be a lack of interest in sex. It also can be a lack of response to sexual activity. Sexual problems fall into four groups, which often overlap:

Desire and arousal problems
Orgasmic problems
Sexual pain
Sexual problems caused by medication or substances.

What are desire problems or low sex drive?

Lack of desire is common and can affect women of any age. For some women, it is normal to not feel desire until sexual activity has started. A lack of desire is considered a disorder when at least three of the following are true for a minimum of 6 months and cause anxiety or sadness:

A woman does not want to engage in any type of sexual activity, including masturbation.
A woman does not have (or has very few) sexual thoughts or fantasies.
A woman does not want to initiate sexual encounters with a partner.
A woman does not have any pleasure during sexual activity.

What are arousal problems?

Arousal is the name for the physical and emotional changes that happen with sexual stimulation. Some women with arousal problems may not feel mental or physical excitement from sex. Other women may feel only mental excitement or only physical excitement.

Arousal can be affected by many things, including:

changes in how a woman feels about herself or her body
pregnancy and nursing
not getting enough exercise
not getting enough sleep
medications for depression
use of alcohol or drugs
relationship problems

What are orgasmic problems?

Di3fficulty reaching orgasm is common. For many women, sharing love and closeness without having an orgasm is satisfying. But other women may feel that not having an orgasm is a problem. They may want to find a solution. Women with orgasmic disorder may

take longer to have an orgasm
have fewer orgasms
have less intense orgasms
have never had an orgasm
not recognize their physical experience as orgasm

For some women, orgasmic disorder may be caused by

a new health problem or mental health condition

a change in a relationship
surgery or radiation in the pelvic area (this is rare)

What is sexual pain?

When gynecologists or other health care professionals talk about sexual pain, they often refer to two conditions: vaginismus and dyspareunia. These conditions can cause several symptoms, including:

tightening of the vaginal muscle that makes penetration di4cult
tension, pain, or burning in the vagina when penetration is attempted
less desire or no desire for penetration
avoidance of sexual activity
intense fear of pain

A pain disorder is diagnosed if the pain interferes with sexual function. Women whose sexual activity does not include penetration also can have a pain disorder. Some women develop sexual pain problems after pregnancy. See FAQ020 When Sex Is Painful for more information.

What medication can cause sexual problems?

Some women have sexual problems soon after starting or stopping some medications. Drugs that may cause problems with sex include the following: including drugs to treat asthma, , chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), depression/anxiety, diarrhea, dizziness, hypertension, insomnia, nausea, overactive bladder, and vomiting.

Using alcohol, marijuana, and pain-relieving drugs such as opioids also can lead to problems with sex.

What are some self-help options?

There are many things you can do alone or with a partner to address a sexual problem, including the following:

Read books about sex.
Learn about your body and how it works.
Explore oral sex, touching with a partner, and masturbation with and without a partner.
Try nonsexual, sensual activities like massage.
Talk with your partner about what you like.
Try to reduce sources of stress in your life.

What can I do to enhance desire?

Work on issues that may be affecting your relationship.
Focus less on physical acts and more on emotional closeness.
Improve your sex knowledge and skills.
Make time for sexual activity and enjoying each other.

What can help me have an orgasm?

Increase sexual stimulation.
Try sexual toys.
Use mental imagery and fantasy.

How can I lessen sexual pain?

Use a vaginal moisturizer. There are several brands you can buy online or at your local pharmacy.

Use a lubricant. If you use condoms, use only water-based or silicone lubricants.
Empty your bladder before sex.
Allow plenty of time for arousal before penetration.
Try different positions or sexual activities that do not involve intercourse.

How can I talk about sex with my gynecologist or other health care professional?

“I am having some concerns about my sex life.”
“I do not enjoy sex like I used to.”
“Lately, I have been having trouble with physical intimacy. What can I do?”
“I am just not interested in sex. Do you have any advice?”
“I’m not satisfied with how often I have sex. What can I do?”

It may help to track your symptoms in a journal. Then you can explain your symptoms to your gynecologist or other health care professional.

If you have further questions, please ask your provider at Redefined For Her

Sexual Health

Sexual health relates to healthy relationships, family planning and prevention of sexually transmitted diseases. Sexual health is not limited to the expression of sexuality but includes the mental, emotional, spiritual and psychological aspects of one’s being. Sexual wellness includes a respectful approach to sexual relationships that is free of harassment, prejudice and violence. The World Health Organization states that sexual health is not merely the absence of disease, dysfunction or infirmity.

Everything you need to know about Lubricants

When a woman is sexually aroused, the vagina normally self-lubricates. This makes the overall experience a lot more fun.

Intercourse without lubricant can be painful and damage the vaginal lining. Your body may produce less lubricant as a result of hormonal changes, menopause, aging, or medication. That’s usually where artificial lubricant comes in.

Artificial lubricant can help enhance arousal, boost sexual pleasure, keep your vaginal skin soft, and, most importantly, reduce friction during penetration — whether it’s by a partner or your favorite sex toy. You can buy lubricant online or at your local drugstore.

Who can benefit?

Lubricants can be used by everyone, regardless of whether their body produces lubrication naturally.

If you’re dealing with vagina dryness, you may find lubricant especially beneficial. Using lubricant before sexual activity can help prevent itching, burning, chaffing, and other discomfort.

Dryness commonly affects people who:

take certain medications, including antihistamines and antidepressants
struggle with daily water intake or are often dehydrated.
use hormonal birth control
smoke cigarettes
are breastfeeding.
are in perimenopause or menopause
have an autoimmune disorder, such as Sjögren syndrome
are undergoing chemotherapy

Some lubricants are designed to enhance sexual function and arousal. If you want to try something new, these lubricants can be a great way to spice things up with your partner or set the mood for some solo play.

What are the different types to try?

There are different types of lubricants to suit different needs. It’s totally normal if you favor one over the rest, or if you like to switch things up depending on the situation. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or looking to expand your lubricant collection, there’s one out there for you, guaranteed.

Water-based lubricant

Water-based lubricants are the most common. They come in two varieties: with glycerin, which has a slightly sweet taste, or without glycerin. Both types of water-based lubricant are cost-effective, easy to find, and safe to use with condoms. They typically don’t stain sheets, either.

Glycerin-free products are less likely to cause vaginal irritation. They also have a longer shelf life.

Flavored or warming lubricants often contain glycerin. Although these products have their perks, they dry out quickly. Because of their sugar content, they’re also known to contribute to yeast infections.

Glycerin-free lubricant can taste bitter. It may not be the best option if you like to switch things up between oral and penetrative sex.

date of publication.

Silicone-based lubricant
Silicone-based lubricants are odorless and tasteless, slippery and smooth. They last the longest out of any lubricant. They don’t need to be reapplied as often as water-based lubricants. They’re safe to use with latex condoms and — if you’re in the mood for a steamy shower session — will hold up under water. Silicone-based lubricants are also hypoallergenic.

However, this type of lubricant may last longer, but it’s harder to wash off. You’ll need to give the area a soapy scrub to remove any residue. Silicone-based lubricants aren’t recommended for silicone sex toys because it can break them down, making them gummy and gross over time.

Oil-based lubricant
There are two types of oil-based lubricants: natural (think coconut oil, olive oil or butter) and synthetic (think mineral oil or Vaseline).

Generally, oil-based lubricants are safe to use, inexpensive, and easily accessible.

Natural-based oil lubricants — like avocado, coconut, vegetable, and olive oils — are great for genital massages and all types of sexual play. They’re also safe for the vagina and safe to eat.

Synthetic oil-based lubricants, including body lotions and creams, are good for external masturbation, but not much else.

Be Careful: both natural and synthetic oil-based lubricants can destroy latex condoms, cause condom failure, and stain fabrics.

Natural lubricant

Natural oil-based lubricants aren’t the only natural products on the market. Some companies have produced organic or vegan lubricants made of botanicals or other eco- friendly ingredients.

Many natural lubricants are free of paraben, a commonly used preservative with established health risks. They also use organic ingredients, which are better for the environment and safe for your vagina.

All-natural lubricants may have a shorter shelf life. They may also cost more than a traditional lubricant.

Things to consider when choosing the right lubricant for you
Of course, not all vaginal lubricants are created equal. Some brands will work better for you than others, depending on your needs.

If you’re dealing with dryness. “Warming” lubricants may not help, as they contain glycerin and can dry quickly. Long-lasting silicone lubricants are your best bet.
If you’re prone to yeast infections. Stay away from lubricants with glycerin. The compound can irritate your vagina and kill good bacteria, triggering an infection.
If you’re trying to conceive. Look for a lubricant that says it’s “sperm friendly” or “fertility friendly” on its packaging.
If you’re going to use a condom. Avoid oil-based lubricants at all costs. Nothing destroys a latex condom quicker than oil-based lubricant.
If you’re going to use a sex toy. Stick with a water-based lubricant. If your sex toy is made of silicone, silicone-based lubricants can break down a toy’s rubber over time.
If you’re going to play in the shower, opt for a silicone-based lubricant. Water- based products will rinse off as soon as you’re under the showerhead.

Is there anything to avoid entirely?

Although oil-based lubricants are safe to use, they can render most condoms ineffective. They may cause vaginal irritation too.

You should also limit your use of lubricant with fragrance or flavoring. These chemicals may cause irritation.

Some ingredients in lubrications are more likely to result in inflammation or irritation and should be avoided by those who are sensitive. These ingredients include:

glycerin
nonoxynol-9
propylene glycol
chlorhexidine gluconate

Is lubricant the same thing as vaginal moisturizer?

Vaginal moisturizers can help prevent general itching and irritation, but they don’t provide enough wetness to prevent discomfort during penetration.

That’s because moisturizers, unlike lubricants, are absorbed into the skin. They need to be used regularly in order to ease dryness.

If you’re planning on having any type of sexual activity, you may still need to use a lubricant to increase comfort.

How to use lubricant effectively

There really isn’t a “right” or “wrong” way to use lubricant effectively. But there are a few things you can do to make the process easier:

Lay down a towel to prevent staining.•
Warm up the lubricant in your hands before applying.
Include lubricant as a part of foreplay to boost arousal.
Apply lubricant right before penetration during partner or solo play.
Be liberal when applying so that your vulva and vagina are sufficiently wet. Apply lubricant to the penis or sex toy.
Reassess how much lubricant is still on as you go and reapply as needed.

Are there any side effects?

Most lubricants are free of side effects. However, it’s possible to have an allergic reaction to something in the lubricant.

See your doctor if you develop any of the following symptoms after use:

difficulty breathing
any swelling, especially of the tongue, throat, or face
hives
rash
itching

Also see your doctor if you develop more frequent yeast infections when lubricant is a part of your regular routine.

The bottom line

Vaginal lubricants can be a great way to help ramp up your partner or solo sex session. The added wetness can reduce any friction or discomfort and help increase arousal.

When deciding between different lubricants, keep your comfort and safety in mind. With the wrong product, your vagina may feel irritated instead of frisky.