What women should know about sexual health

What should women know about gynecological cancer screenings?
There are five types of gynecological cancers: cervical, endometrial, ovarian, vaginal and vulvar. The risk of these cancers increases with age. It is critical that women go to their annual health appointment so that a gynecologist can evaluate any risk factors, symptoms, or family history of cancer.

The only type of gynecological cancer we can screen for is cervical cancer with a Pap test, an HPV test, or both. (HPV is the most common and contagious sexually transmitted infection in the United States, particularly among young women, and can lead to cervical cancer.)

If a patient experiences symptoms such as abnormal vaginal bleeding (bleeding that is heavier, longer, or more frequent than usual, bleeding after sex, or postmenopausal bleeding), abnormal vaginal discharge, painful or frequent urination or blood in the urine, or pain during intercourse, such as a color change the vulva or pain, swelling or a mass in the pelvic or vaginal area, it is a good idea to visit your gynecologist so that he can perform diagnostic tests such as ultrasound, blood tests, urine tests, etc. or biopsy if necessary.

What does sexual dysfunction look like in women?
When a woman suffers from a recurrent, persistent lack of sexual desire, decreased arousal, inability to achieve orgasm, or pain during sexual activity, it is classified as sexual dysfunction.

Sexual dysfunction can be caused by a variety of factors, including medical conditions, depression or anxiety, certain medications (e.g., birth control pills, beta-blockers for blood pressure, antidepressants, or aromatase inhibitors in women with breast cancer), and difficulties in relationships, and even social and cultural factors .

Women often notice a decline in libido around the age of 40. Declining estrogen levels during menopause are often accompanied by vaginal dryness and vaginal thinning, which can lead to pain during sex.

Breastfeeding women may experience vaginal dryness due to the reduction in estrogen, and taking birth control pills may also lead to a decrease in libido. Women who have experienced sexual, physical, or emotional abuse or trauma in the past are more likely to have problems with their sexual health.

What are some ways to promote sexual health and intimacy?
Vaginal lubricants and moisturizers can significantly help with vaginal dryness. There are also hormone therapies that can help with sexual dysfunction caused by menopause, such as: B. systemic estradiol, vaginal estradiol or testosterone. For nonmenopausal patients, there are other medications that can increase libido, such as flibanserin.

Many women benefit significantly from seeing a pelvic floor physical therapist, especially if they suffer from conditions such as vaginismus, which causes involuntary contractions of the vagina, or urinary incontinence. Women experiencing sexual dysfunction are strongly advised to undergo a pelvic exam so that their gynecologist can assess the situation and determine whether there are any associated medical conditions that may be treatable.

Open communication with your partner is crucial for sexual health. There must be an established emotional intimacy, respect and trust. Many people benefit from couples therapy or sex therapy.

It seems like common sense to “just relax” and enjoy sex. But often people get distracted and it becomes difficult to be present. Although it is difficult to completely reduce stress, I really encourage patients to try different ways to manage stress, whether through meditation, cognitive behavioral therapy, yoga, exercise, or a healthy diet. Improving your mental health is an important step to improving your sexual health.