Sexual Health

Your sexual health encompasses more than just your libido or how you feel about your body, although they are important components. It's also about making good decisions that affect your overall health. These include protecting yourself from sexually-transmitted diseases or unplanned pregnancy and addressing sexual concerns with your health care provider.

Get regular gynecological exams
Choose a health care provider with whom you feel comfortable talking about your sexual concerns. Don't let embarrassment over the topic of sex prevent you from having a frank discussion. It's your body and your health. You owe it to yourself to make sure you are an active partner in your care. Let your provider know if you are experiencing any unusual symptoms, pain during intercourse or other concerns.

Practice safe sex
There are many products on the market that can help reduce the chances of an unplanned pregnancy such as the condom, birth control pill, diaphragm, intrauterine device (IUD), rhythm method, abstinence and others. Your health care provider can help answer questions about the reliability of various methods and which one may best fit your lifestyle.

For protection against sexually-transmitted diseases (STD), condoms, when used consistently and correctly, offer the best protection against many diseases. Because not all STDs are transmitted through vaginal intercourse, condoms do not provide absolute protection against all STDs.

Not all STDs produce noticeable symptoms. Therefore, regular screening is important, especially if a woman has had more than one partner. If you suspect you have been exposed to a STD, seek prompt care. Certain STDs can be serious, even life threatening. However, with prompt medical attention, most can be treated effectively.

Don't ignore sexual difficulties
Lack of sexual desire, orgasmic difficulties, painful intercourse and other problems can hamper pleasure and a satisfying sex life. The underlying cause may be psychological in nature, such as stress, past sexual abuse or unresolved conflict with your partner or physical such as fatigue, changes in hormone levels, illness, or the side effects of medication. An evaluation by your health care provider can help identify the problem and the appropriate treatment.