Sexual Health Health Center

One-on-one contact, empathy, and emotional connections are all usually very important in establishing sexual intimacy. Four sex topics you should discuss with your partner include physical limitations, gender history, sexually transmitted diseases (STD), and religious upbringing.

Since ancient times, the reasons people have sex have been assumed to be few and simple. However, several proposed theories suggest reasons to perform the carnal act may be larger in number and psychologically complex.

Most people who have genital herpes have no symptoms or have very mild symptoms. Patients may not notice mild symptoms or may mistake them for another skin condition, such as a pimple or ingrown hair.

Everyone has sensitive touchpoints or erogenous zones on their bodies. The seven most erogenous zones on a woman are the ears, fingertips and palms, nipples, inner thighs, clitoris, A-spot, and the bottom of the feet.

Trichomoniasis or trich is caused by a tiny one-celled parasite called Trichomonas vaginalis. It lives in the genitals. It is transmitted usually during unprotected sexual activity. Yes, a man can infect a woman with trich.

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a type of virus that is different from human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and herpes virus (HSV). It is the most common cause of sexually transmitted disease (STD) in the United States. Yes, human papillomavirus (HPV) can be transmitted from a woman to man and vice versa.

It is highly unlikely for chlamydia to go away on its own.

What is the Difference between genital warts and herpes, and, can genital warts be mistaken for herpes?

The herpes simplex virus causes sores and blisters around the mouth or genitals. Learn the signs of herpes, what causes it, how doctors diagnose it, and what you can do to treat it.

Human papillomavirus, or HPV for short, is a common type of viral infection. While HPV doesn't come back after clearing completely, it's difficult to know if an infection has actually been resolved or is simply dormant.

Most sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) cannot be transmitted through clothing. Some such as pubic lice, scabies and molluscum contagiosum can be transmitted by sharing clothes with an infected person.

Most sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) or sexually transmitted infections (STIs) do not spread through casual contact such as hugging, touching or kissing, although there are exceptions.

The human papillomavirus is transferred from person to person by skin-to-skin intimate contact with someone who has the infection. Transmission of HPV without sex, though uncommon, does happen.

Shaving pubic hair alone does not get rid of crabs or pubic lice. Crabs may cling and crawl to other body hair. Pubic lice are resilient creatures that can live on other parts of the body, including the armpits and eyelashes. The typical treatment for pubic lice is a lotion containing permethrin or pyrethrin/piperonyl butoxide.

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a type of virus that is different from human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and herpes virus (HSV). It is the most common cause of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) in the United States. In most cases, human papillomavirus (HPV) infections can go away on their own.

Trichomoniasis is passed from an infected person to another primarily during sexual activity. In very rare cases, it can be transferred from an infected mother to her unborn child. Any sexual activity during vaginal, oral or anal sex can cause the infection to spread. Even if your partner has no symptoms, they can spread the infection.

In about 10% of cases, pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) may occur without having an STD. The majority of PID is sexually transmitted. The most common causative microorganisms of PID are sexually transmitted and include gonorrhea, chlamydia, trichomonas and mycoplasma.

Lupus is a long-term autoimmune disease that happens when your immune system attacks your skin, joints, and internal organs like your heart or kidneys. Lupus is not contagious, and you cannot give or get lupus from oral sex.

Like other STIs, HPV is spread through skin-to-skin sexual contact during oral, anal and vaginal sex. It's possible to have sex even if you have HPV or you're concerned about getting it, but get vaccinated, practice safe sex, get tested regularly, and talk to your partners about it.

Chlamydia is the most common sexually transmitted disease in the U.S. Signs and symptoms of chlamydia, a bacterial infection, include vaginal discharge, abdominal pain, burning with urination, blood in the urine, and feelings of urinary urgency and frequency. Untreated chlamydia can cause pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), increased risk of ectopic pregnancy, and infertility.

Date-rape drugs are substances that if ingested make it easier for someone to rape or perform any sexual activity. The activity is without another person’s (man/woman) agreement (sexual assault). Date-rape drugs are especially reportedly used at dance clubs and rave parties, so they are named club drugs.

Everyone feels pleasure differently during sex. Both men and women can feel great pleasure during sex.

Celibacy generally means abstaining from sex (usually penetrative sex) voluntarily. Ideally, celibates must stay away from everything related to sex, such as kissing, cuddling, snuggling, or touching sexual parts. However, different people practice celibacy differently. Celibacy is a voluntary choice and you can decide how you want to practice it. You may kiss your partner provided it does not lead to sexual intercourse.

Celibacy is not the same as virginity. It is voluntary, and it can be practiced by those who have had intercourse before. Celibates can always go back to being sexually active.

Edging is a practice to delay orgasm while having intercourse. Both men and women can practice edging.

Palatal petechiae can occur as a result of oral sex or fellatio and cause lesions on the soft palate. Learn about the causes, diagnosis, and treatment of palatal petechiae. Check out the center below for more medical references on sexual health, including multimedia (slideshows, images, and quizzes), related diseases, treatment, diagnosis, medications, and prevention or wellness.

Safe sex in loving relationships leads to greater happiness and well-being for individuals and couples. It's not just sex that is important, though. Instead, it's the affection that sex brings to your relationship.

Unlike many work-outs, sex is an exercise that can help you burn some calories and still have fun while doing it.

There is no scientific evidence to suggest that engaging in sexual activity can speed up the aging process. In fact, some research has suggested that regular sexual activity may have a number of health benefits, such as improving cardiovascular health, boosting the immune system, and reducing stress. Still, it is important to practice safe sex in order to reduce the risk of sexually transmitted infections and unintended pregnancies.

While it's normal for your sex life to slow down as you get older, sexual health is important at any age. When it comes to sex, the saying, "use it or lose it," applies to both men and women.

Erectile dysfunction (ED, impotence) is the failure to achieve or maintain an erection. There are many potential underlying causes of erectile dysfunction, including stress and emotional problems, brain dysfunction, problems with blood supply to the penis, and structural problems with the penis.

The female reproductive system is designed to carry out several functions, including producing the female egg cells, conception, and producing female sex hormones that maintain the reproductive cycle. During menopause, the female reproductive system gradually stops making the female hormones necessary for the reproductive cycle to work. Some of the important parts of the female reproductive anatomy include the uterus, ovaries, vagina, cervix, urethra, and vaginal opening.

Genital herpes is a sexually transmitted disease (STD). The herpes simplex virus (HSV) causes this infection. Signs and symptoms of genital herpes in women are painful blisters that may look like pimples in the genital area or blisters around the anus. There is no cure for genital herpes.

Genital herpes and cold sores (oral herpes) are the names given to two types of infection caused by the two types of herpes simplex virus (HSV): HSV-1 and HSV-2.

Gonorrhea is a sexually transmitted disease (STD) caused by the bacteria Neisseria gonorrhoeae. It is only transmitted by unprotected sexual contact, with either oral, vaginal or anal intercourse. Symptoms are based on the location of the infection. Chlamydia can occur as a co-infection with gonorrhea.

A female condom is a barrier method of contraception. Female condoms are not tight on the penis, and they don’t inhibit or dull sensation like male condoms. Hence, it is believed that they feel more natural compared to wearing male condoms.

There is no 'one-size-fits-all' technique to increase libido; however, doctors can successfully treat a low sex drive with correct diagnosis and medical therapy.

Itchy genitals can be a symptom of many different conditions. You can stop your private parts from itching at night by washing them regularly, wearing clean underwear, and eating a balanced diet.

It's common for ejaculation problems to occur as you age. Ejaculation problems usually don’t pose health concerns, but they can be embarrassing to experience. Learn how to fix ejaculation problems and talk to your doctor.

While retrograde ejaculation is not a life-threatening condition it can cause male infertility. Learn about causes and treatment.

Learn what medical treatments can help you get rid of warts.

Crabs is a common issue that affects many people. Learn the signs of crabs, what causes crabs, how doctors diagnose crabs, and what you can do to treat crabs.

Although most people infected with HPV remain asymptomatic, it may cause serious side effects, such as the following.

Learn what medical treatments can help with mucus in your urine and speed up your recovery.

What is HPV, and what does it look like in men? Learn how to recognize HPV, when to see your doctor for HPV, and how to prevent and treat HPV in men.

The traditional belief is that every person should seek a single soulmate and they should commit to that person completely. There are people who don’t believe that a single individual can fulfil all their needs in a relationship, so they prefer having many partners. Polyamorous relationships definitely benefit from regular counselling sessions to cope with feelings of jealousy and anxiety, which may surface in the long run.

Polygamy is the practice of marrying more than one person, whereas polyamory means having multiple relations while being married (or not married) to one person. Polyamory means having multiple lovers and polygamy means having multiple spouses.

Acute illness of hepatitis A typically subsides within two months; however, it may last for up to six months in more severe cases.

Genital wart is an infectious skin condition caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). The medical term for genital warts is ‘condyloma acuminata,’ and it is a sexually transmitted disease (STD).

What is gonorrhea and what are the symptoms of it? Learn the signs of gonorrhea and what to do if you have it.

HPV or human papillomavirus is a group of viruses that infect human mucous membranes and skin. HPV is highly contagious. Learn about symptoms, diagnosis, and vaccines.

Genital warts is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). Genital warts are raised, flesh-colored lumps. Learn about symptoms, transmission, and treatment.

Interstitial cystitis (IC)/painful bladder syndrome (PBS) is an inflammatory disease of the bladder that can cause ulceration and bleeding of the bladder's lining and can lead to scarring and stiffening of the bladder. Symptoms of interstitial cystitis may vary among individuals and may even vary with time in the same individual.

Millions of people are living with the herpes virus that causes genital herpes (herpes simplex virus [HSV]). Genital herpes can be caused by HSV-1 or HSV-2. You shouldn’t be embarrassed or delay seeking medical care if you experience symptoms. Most people get at least one sexually transmitted disease (STD) in their lifetime, and having herpes or STD is nothing to be ashamed of.

Cramping after sex can occur for a wide variety of reasons and is not always a sign of an underlying medical condition. Learn about potential causes.

Sex is known to be a proven stressbuster that elevates your mood instantly, and yes, it is completely normal to have sex every day. There are phases in life when you have sex more frequently. </p><p> Does sex really help you lose weight? While it’s not the most effective form of exercise for weight loss, it can burn calories and work for certain muscle groups.

Masturbation is a healthy and natural part of one’s own sexuality. Check out the center below for more medical references on sexual health, including multimedia (slideshows, images, and quizzes), related disease conditions, treatment and diagnosis, medications, and prevention or wellness.

Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection. Syphilis is totally curable.

Over-the-counter treatment for erectile dysfunction does exist, in the form of ED pumps and pills. However, it’s best to consult your doctor before starting these treatments.

Trichomoniasis is not chlamydia. Check out the center below for more medical references on STDs, including multimedia (slideshows, images, and quizzes), related disease conditions, treatment and diagnosis, medications, and prevention or wellness.

Paraphilias are characterized by sexual fantasies, urges, and behaviors involving unusual objects or activities. Exhibitionism, fetishism, frotteurism, pedophilia, sadism, transvestitism, voyeurism, and sexual masochism are examples of paraphilias. Counseling, therapy, and medications are used in the treatment of paraphilias.

The term sex addiction describes the behavior of someone who has an unusually strong sex drive or sexual obsession. Sex and thoughts of sex dominate a sex addict's thinking, making it difficult to work or engage in healthy personal relationships. Sex addicts may engage in exhibitionism, voyeurism, prostitution, compulsive masturbation, or cybersex. Treatment for sex addiction includes individual counseling, marital and/or family therapy, support groups, 12-step recovery programs, and in some cases, medications.

Sexual health information including birth control, impotence, herpes, sexually transmitted diseases, staying healthy, women's sexual health concerns, and men's sexual health concerns. Learn about the most common sexual conditions affecting men and women.

Male sexual dysfunction can be caused by physical or psychological problems. Common sexual problems in men include erectile dysfunction (impotence or ED), premature ejaculation, and loss of libido. Treatment for sexual dysfunction in men may involve medication, hormone therapy, psychological therapy, and the use of mechanical aids.

If you are diagnosed with a sexually transmitted disease (STD), you must take and observe the following precautions.

Common sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) in women include gonorrhea, chlamydia, genital herpes, and HPV infection (genital warts). Learn about types, symptoms, and treatment.

When you are pregnant, many sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) can be especially harmful to you and your baby. These STDs include herpes, HIV/AIDS, genital warts (HPV), hepatitis B, chlamydia, syphilis, gonorrhea, and trichomoniasis. Symptoms include bumps, sores, warts, swelling, itching, or redness in the genital region. Treatment of STDs while pregnant depends on how far along you are in the pregnancy and the progression of the infection.

Symptoms of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) in men include painful urination, bumps or sores on the penis, and penile discharge and itching. Learn about the most common STDs in men.

Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are infections that are transmitted during vaginal, anal, and oral sex. Symptoms may include genital sores, unusual discharge, pain during sex or urination, and itching or discomfort.

Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the bacteria Treponema pallidum. There are three stages of syphilis with distinct symptoms. During the first stage of syphilis, a painless ulcer or sore, known as a chancre, forms. Irreversible organ damage and death can occur during the late stage of syphilis if left untreated.

Testicular pain has many causes, including testicular torsion, cancer, injury and epididymitis. Treatment of pain in the testicles depends on the cause.

Sexual peak refers to a period of your life when you are most capable of having frequent sex that is high in quality. Research suggests that women reach their sexual peak in their 30s whereas men peak in their late teens.

Reproductive health issues affect millions of Americans each year. Learn about common reproductive health issues for both men and women.

Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are diseases that a person can get by having sex with someone who has an STD.

What Are the Best Three Exercises for Erectile Dysfunction? Learn whether exercises can help and what other treatments can help to relieve your symptoms.

Hepatitis C spreads by contact with an infected person’s blood. Although uncommon, hepatitis C can be transmitted through sexual activity, if the person has genital sores and cuts. It can also be transmitted during menstruation. However, just 2% of hepatitis C cases are sexually transmitted.

Flirting is an essential aspect of human interaction. It often opens a portal for intimate relationships between two people. Both men and women flirt, and many people find innocent flirting fun and satisfying.

Sexual arousal is being sexually excited. Everyone’s sex drive is different, and there is no quantifying how much amounts to normal sex. Everyone’s sexual desire and interests are different and can change over time.

Marriage is considered one of the most sacred relationships; however, not every marriage results in a good or happy life. Identifying the signs of an unhealthy marriage in a timely manner can help you fix your relationship before it's too late.

According to the American Social Health Organization, each year one out of four teens in the United States develops a sexually transmitted disease (STD). Half of all sexually active young adults get an STD by the age of 25 years.

Types of female sexual problems include low desire, lack of arousal, difficulty reaching orgasm, pain during sex, and drug-related sexual dysfunction.

What is oral herpes, and how do you know if you have it? Learn the signs of oral herpes and what to do if you get an outbreak.

HPV — human papillomavirus — is the most common sexually transmitted infection in the U.S., with over 75 million people being infected, most of them young adults. There are more than 150 strains of HPV.

Prolactin plays an important role in the reproductive system of both men and women. Learn what causes an increase or decrease of prolactin levels, the signs to look for, and what to do about low and high prolactin levels.

Your sex drive, also called your libido, refers to how much you would like to have sex. Low, normal, and high sex drives may be due to hormones, medical problems, medications, mental health issues, and other factors.

Genital sores or genital ulcers can occur because of several causes, the most common being sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

Herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV-1) and simplex virus 2 (HSV-2) are the two types of herpes virus and will look different as they develop during five stages.

Cis is short for cisgender, which is a term used to describe a person whose gender identity is the same as the gender assigned to them at birth.

Gender fluid people are individuals whose gender varies over time. A gender-fluid person may at any time identify as male, female, agender, other nonbinary identities, or some combination of identities. They may feel more like one gender on some days and another gender on other days.

Herpes is a skin infection caused by herpes simplex virus (HSV). It results in the formation of painful blisters or sores on the skin, typically around the mouth or genitals.

Learn the symptoms seen in the early stages of a UTI below, which include a burning sensation during urination and pain in the lower abdomen.

Women with certain sexual dysfunctions may benefit from taking Viagra since the pill increases blood flow to the genitals, which could help increase arousal, sensitivity and orgasmic function.

While engaging in sex or during masturbation, your body undergoes physical and emotional changes known as the sexual response cycle. You need to know the body’s response toward each phase of the cycle to enhance the relationship or identify the cause of sexual dysfunction.

Libido in a man is his sex drive, influenced by the symbiotic relationship between hormones and neurotransmitters—testosterone, dopamine, serotonin, and glutamate.

The best medicine for erectile dysfunction (ED) depends on the cause of your condition, as well as your budget and lifestyle.

Genital warts or HPV (human papillomavirus) are very common. There is no cure but there are fast treatments to help get rid of them. Learn what they are. If you need to get tested for STDs but would rather not go to the doctor, you can test yourself using an at-home STD test.

The FDA approved two versions of female Viagra to treat female sexual dysfunction, which are called flibanserin (Addyi) and bremelanotide.

Embarrassment due to symptoms or illness will only make your suffering worse and symptoms deadlier and may even cause further spread of the disease.

FDA-approved medications that may boost a woman's libido (sex drive) include Addyi (flibanserin) and Vylessi (bremelanotide).

There are several STDs that can cause anus itching, including anal herpes, anal warts, and gonorrhea. Learn about the symptoms and treatment of each of these sexually transmitted diseases and how you can protect yourself. Check out the center below for more medical references on STDs, including multimedia (slideshows, images, and quizzes), related diseases, treatment, diagnosis, medications, and prevention or wellness.