What is sexual health?

Sexual health encompasses your reproductive organs, sex hormones, and sexual functioning. Seeing your OB/GYN specialist routinely helps detect sexual health problems early before they become bothersome or cause serious complications. 

What are common sexual health problems in women?

Common sexual health problems many women face at some point include:

• Vaginal dryness
• Pelvic pain
• Pain during intercourse
• Hormonal imbalance
• Menopause symptoms
• Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs)
• Gynecological problems
• Loss of sexual desire
• Urinary tract infections (UTIs)

Diagnosing your condition and treating it can reduce troublesome symptoms, restore your sex life, and diminish the chance of complications. 

What happens during a women’s health exam?

During a women’s health exam to evaluate your reproductive organs and sexual health, a Bay Area Physicians for Women provider discusses your medical history, symptoms, and lifestyle habits. 

They also check your vital signs and complete a physical exam, including a pelvic exam, to screen for sexual health problems.

You might need a Pap test, also called a Pap smear, to screen for signs of cervical cancer. Other tests can include a blood test, a urine test, STD testing, or an ultrasound, hysteroscopy, or laparoscopy to further evaluate your reproductive health. 

How does my provider treat sexual health problems?

If you struggle with infertilty, an STD, sex hormone imbalance, or other sexual health issues, your Bay Area Physicians for Women specialist can treat your condition. You might undergo hormone replacement therapy, take medications, undergo minimally invasive surgery, or make lifestyle changes.

How can I maintain superior sexual health?

To achieve or maintain outstanding sexual health, eat nutritious foods, maintain an ideal body weight, and get regular exercise and at least seven hours of sleep each night. Avoid smoking and drinking alcohol in excess. 

Practice safe sex if you’re sexually active. This means having sex with just one also-monogamous partner who has tested negative for STDs, or using a condom each time you have intercourse.

See your Bay Area Physicians for Women provider at least once yearly for a routine women’s health exam, including a pelvic exam and a Pap test if needed.

If you develop signs of a sexual health problem, schedule an appointment with Bay Area Physicians for Women by phone or online today.