Latest news with #FemaleSexualFunctionIndex
CNA
09-07-2025
- Health
- CNA
Can you get a urinary tract or yeast infection from the toilet? We asked doctors to debunk women's health myths
Sexual health is still seen as a taboo subject among women in Singapore. Not talking about it means that women are losing out on important education, and possibly, medical help. KK Women's and Children's Hospital (KKH) conducted two studies in 2024 which revealed unmet sexual health needs in women of reproductive age. The first study involved 787 women, aged between 21 and 45 years, and found that 57 per cent were not aware of symptoms of female sexual health issues. Also, even though 94 per cent agreed that awareness and education on female sexual health issues are important, only 43 per cent would seek medical help if they experienced such issues. The second study, among 477 healthcare professionals who treat women of reproductive age, produced some shocking statistics – 81 per cent were unaware of available screening tools. And only 10 to 12 per cent felt confident or very confident in diagnosing or managing sexual health issues. In March, the KKH-led Maternal and Child Health Research Institute launched Singapore's first set of Guidelines on Sexual Health for Women of Reproductive Age, for healthcare professionals. These provide a comprehensive framework covering screening, assessment, education and management across all stages of reproductive health. For example, a screening tool doctors would use could be The Female Sexual Function Index-6, a questionnaire which assesses female sexual function across six domains, including arousal, lubrication, satisfaction and pain. 'Sexual health during a woman's reproductive years affects overall health now and in the future,' said KKH's Dr Tan Tse Yeun, senior consultant at the department of reproductive medicine. 'Specifically, it influences women's function, well-being, relationships and ability to have children.' A visit to the gynaecologist is not just about screening for sexually-transmitted diseases or monitoring your pregnancy or reproductive health. 'Gynaecological care is important throughout a woman's life journey,' said Dr Tan, who is also co-chairperson of the guidelines' work group at KKH. 'During your teenage years, we help manage period problems and irregular cycles. In your twenties and thirties, we monitor reproductive health and address conditions like polycystic ovarian syndrome or endometriosis. 'During your forties and fifties, we help manage perimenopause and menopause symptoms,' she added. 'Whether a woman is sexually active or not, these health needs remain relevant.' Dr Charu Narayanan, family physician at International Medical Clinic, explained that all women, even if they're not sexually active, should consider having a checkup with their primary care provider to address any concerns relating to their menstrual cycle, reproductive and sexual health and contraception, if required. A visit to a gynaecologist might be necessary in some situations, regardless of whether women are sexually active. 'It's commonplace for women to complain of heavy or painful periods, irregular cycles, abnormal bleeding or unusual vaginal discharge,' Dr Charu said. 'There may be no underlying cause but there are conditions affecting the uterus and ovaries, namely fibroids, ovarian cysts and endometriosis, which can only be detected on scanning by a gynaecologist.' If these conditions are detected early, treatment can alleviate symptoms, prevent other complications or possible impact on fertility, said Dr Charu. This one is easy to dispel – urinary tract infections (UTIs) and yeast infections are not transmitted through toilet seats. Dr Cassandra Cheong, associate consultant at KKH's department of obstetrics and gynaecology, explained that UTIs can occur when bacteria, typically from the digestive tract, enter the urinary tract. And vaginal yeast infections are caused by an overgrowth of naturally-occurring fungi in warm, moist environments, often triggered by factors like antibiotics use, hormonal changes or poorly-controlled diabetes. Dr Charu said that women in the reproductive age group can get UTI after intercourse; prevention includes hydrating well and emptying the bladder after sex. Women of menopausal age also suffer from UTI and vaginal oestrogen can be effective in avoiding it. Having a UTI or yeast infection can affect your sexual health, though. Both can cause discomfort or pain during intercourse, which may lead couples to avoid sexual activity. And while neither condition is sexually transmitted, sexual activity can increase the risk of UTI in women, said Dr Cheong. In early stages of the disease, common sexually-transmitted infections (STIs) such as chlamydia, gonorrhoea, trichomoniasis, genital herpes, human papillomavirus (HPV), syphilis and HIV may not produce noticeable symptoms, said Dr Charu. 'Later on, clear or coloured vaginal discharge, abnormal bleeding patterns, burning urination, pelvic pain and, ultimately, infertility due to spread of the infection to the uterus and fallopian tubes, is noted with chlamydia, gonorrhoea and trichomoniasis infections,' she added. Dr Cheong told CNA Women that most of the cases seen in the hospital's STI Clinic are detected through screening patients who show no symptoms. However, these patients are 'at risk', such as those with an infected partner or who have multiple sexual partners, or are pregnant teenagers. 'Therefore, it is possible to contract STI from people who appear well and may not know they have an infection,' she added. Not true, said Dr Cheong. She pointed out that STIs can affect your entire body. Some may even have long-term implications, which makes early detection and treatment crucial. 'For example, syphilis may cause heart, brain and eye problems, and HIV may cause weakened immunity and an increased risk of certain cancers,' she said. Dr Charu noted that gonorrhoea can produce serious eye infections that can lead to blindness, as well as spread to the heart, joints and brain. Chlamydia can also cause serious eye infections, as well as joint inflammation. And untreated chlamydia during pregnancy can cause serious pneumonia in the baby and also infect the baby's eyes. Sometimes, not being able to have sex isn't because you're mentally too caught up with life or just not in the mood. It could be a genuine problem, so don't dismiss it. Dr Tan explained that female sexual dysfunction can be due to biological, psychological, socio-cultural factors or a combination of them. 'Conservative social upbringing and religious or cultural influences can also shape views on intimacy and sexuality,' said Dr Tan. 'These may give rise to anxiety about sexual intimacy, aversion to sexual relations and even female sexual dysfunction.' She added that female sexual problems can be caused by certain conditions, such as chronic medical conditions, pregnancy, major pelvic or vagina surgeries and past negative sexual experiences. Dr Charu said that pain during intercourse can occur with an inability to relax the pelvic floor. A pelvic floor physiotherapist and a gynaecologist can guide treatment. MYTH #6: YOU JUST HAVE TO LIVE WITH IT IF YOUR LIBIDO DOESN'T MATCH YOUR PARTNER'S If you and your partner have mismatched libidos, Dr Charu's advice is to see a doctor to properly explore your medical history. The doctor will check for physical causes (vascular and neurological), mental health as well as certain medications, such as antidepressants, which can affect libido. Low oestrogen and testosterone levels around perimenopause and its accompanying mental changes can impact sexual function too. Effective treatment includes psychosexual counselling and, in some cases, menopause hormone therapy (MHT; formerly called hormone replacement therapy) which can improve mood, libido and sleep quality. Dr Tan recommended open and honest communication about each partner's needs and expectations. 'Couples can consult healthcare professionals about underlying factors affecting desire levels, discussing solutions to explore, such as adjusting timing of intimate activities when energy levels are high or when activities or stress levels are low, to discussing the frequency and type of intimacy the couple prefers,' said Dr Tan. The lack of lubrication, having a low mood and a reduced ability to orgasm can make sex difficult in menopause, but there are ways to manage it. Dr Charu recommended using vaginal oestrogen, available as pessaries and creams, which helps relieve painful intercourse, improve sensation and libido. It can also help reduce recurrent urinary tract infections, something that many women suffer from after menopause. Dr Tan stressed the importance of focusing on overall intimacy – taking time for foreplay, exploring different ways to be physically intimate and having open conversations with your partner. 'Every couple's goals are different, and orgasms are not the only measure of satisfying intimacy,' said Dr Tan. 'Orgasms might feel different or take longer to achieve with age but this does not mean couples cannot maintain a fulfilling intimate relationship.'
Herald Sun
16-06-2025
- Health
- Herald Sun
New study reveals younger partners may ease menopause symptoms
Don't miss out on the headlines from Lifestyle. Followed categories will be added to My News. Many women try everything to treat the frustrating and uncomfortable symptoms of menopause. According to new research, a younger partner may help. From dryness, pain, and loss of desire, it can feel impossible to find treatments to alleviate the symptoms of menopause. According to new research, symptom relief may come in a form none of us had considered. A study funded by Womanizer's Pleasure Fund and conducted by London Metropolitan University found that younger partners may ease menopause symptoms. Of 150 peri or post-menopausal participants, researchers found that women in relationships with a partner at least seven years younger than them reported 54 per cent fewer menopause-related local and sexual symptoms. Participants also completed 'a 19-item measure of sexual pain, sexual desire, orgasm, lubrication, and sexual satisfaction' called the Female Sexual Function Index. Those in age-gap relationships scored 84 per cent higher in sexual functioning, particularly when it came to 'sexual arousal and desire'. Women in relationships with a partner at least seven years younger than them reported 54 per cent fewer menopause-related local and sexual symptoms. But another study conducted by Womanizer on over 1000 Australians found that only 8.3 per cent of women have been in an age gap relationship as the older woman, and only 2.4 per cent are interested in the prospect of being in one. Women in consensual non-monogamy relationships also experienced fewer symptoms Participants in relationships engaging in consensual non-monogamy also reported higher levels of orgasms, along with fewer menopausal symptoms, compared to those in monogamous relationships. Perhaps another treatment option to look into? Particularly 'vasomotor symptoms, tiredness and sleep disturbances, emotional symptoms, local and sexual symptoms, and other physiological symptoms.' Perhaps another treatment option to look into? Orgasm therapy The researchers found that whether they occurred with or without partners, orgasms unsurprisingly helped to ease symptoms of menopause. In some areas, orgasms were able to reduce women's symptoms by up to 36 per cent, with those using toys experiencing the biggest relief. In some areas, orgasms were able to reduce women's symptoms by up to 36 per cent, with those using toys experiencing the biggest relief. Those making use of their toys experienced a 59 per cent reduction in tiredness and sleep disturbances, and reported better mental wellbeing and self-efficacy. The team says more research is needed into the area, but one thing's for sure, prioritising your desire and pleasure can deliver more benefits than we could've thought. Image: iStock The researchers added that they found orgasms caused 'a total and direct effect of sexual satisfaction on reducing local and sexual symptoms of peri/menopause, including soreness of the vulva and vagina, discomfort on passing urine, urine leaks, sexual pain, and loss of interest in sex'. The team says more research is needed into the area, but one thing's for sure, prioritising your desire and pleasure can deliver more benefits than we could've thought. Originally published as New study reveals younger partners may ease menopause symptoms
IOL News
23-05-2025
- Health
- IOL News
From arousal to awareness: demystifying Female Sexual Arousal Disorder (Candace Syndrome)
Your enjoyment of sex is just as important as your partner's. Image: Pixabay When it comes to female sexual health in South Africa, honest conversations are long overdue. After attending a recent webinar on the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) hosted by Lady Prelox, a leading Lamelle Pharmaceuticals brand, Independent MediaLifestyle wanted to unpack what real women face every day. I spoke to Karen Bester, medical training manager at Lamelle, to explore what's going on behind closed doors, why so many women battle in silence, and how South Africans can take steps toward better, more fulfilling intimate lives. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ What is Female Sexual Arousal Disorder (FSAD) or 'Candace Syndrome'? According to Bester, Female Sexual Arousal Disorder (FSAD), sometimes called Candace Syndrome, is more common than you might think. It's not just about 'not being in the mood', FSAD means having ongoing trouble getting or staying aroused, even if you want to be intimate. This can look like trouble with lubrication, loss of sensitivity, or struggling to experience orgasm. Bester explains, 'FSAD is a physical challenge; your mind may be ready, but your body just isn't responding how you'd like.' Is FSAD the same as low libido? Many people confuse FSAD with low libido (or low sexual desire), but they are not the same. FSAD is about the body's response, like a car engine that just won't start, while low libido is a lack of sexual interest, even in your thoughts or fantasies. Bester adds, 'Desire starts in the mind, arousal happens in the body. You can have one without the other, and both can need different solutions.' Unlike male sexual dysfunction, diagnosing female sexual dysfunction isn't always straightforward. Image: Саша Соколова/pexels Why does sexual desire drop? Sexual desire can dip for lots of reasons and at any age. While menopause and hormonal changes are common triggers, so are stress, a busy work life, relationship tension, physical health problems, and even becoming a new mom. Stats from the World Health Organisation show that up to 40% of women globally experience some form of sexual dysfunction during their lifetime. In South Africa, lifestyle pressures from juggling careers to raising families mean more women are affected than ever. And it's completely normal for desire to rise and fall through the years. The reality of orgasm issues If you have difficulty reaching orgasm, you're in good company. There are two main types: primary (never having had an orgasm) and secondary (you used to, but now you can't). Causes range from anxiety and lack of sexual education to hormonal shifts, relationship issues, or medication. Bester notes, 'Women often blame themselves, but orgasm challenges are so common, and there is real help available.' Pain during sex: dyspareunia explained Painful sex, or dyspareunia, is often misunderstood or brushed off. It can feel sharp, burning, or like pressure, and might happen at the entrance or deeper inside. Causes vary from infections and inflammation to lack of lubrication or arousal. Brushing it off can lead to anxiety, avoidance, and relationship strain. It's not 'all in your head', it's a real, treatable medical issue. How is female sexual dysfunction diagnosed? Unlike a 'yes/no' checklist, female sexual dysfunction needs a holistic approach. Doctors look at your medical history, symptoms (present for six months or more), and rule out other medical or mental health conditions. 'It's about getting the full picture, your body, mind, and life situation all matter.' One of the biggest barriers to better sexual health is stigma. Image: cottonbro studio /pexels
The Independent
14-02-2025
- General
- The Independent
Will you be my Valent-wine? Here are the most romantic tipples
Romance isn't just for Valentine's Day – but it can certainly provide some good inspiration. I'll be celebrating with a glass or two with my beloved, tonight – something my 16-year-old self would never have imagined as she was so desperately trying to decipher the handwriting on the card put through my locker, against that of the boy I was so in love with (James, if you're reading this – and it wasn't you – please don't pop my bubble of belief...) Beyond my teenage heartbreaks, I've never really been swept up in the Hallmark frenzy – I even spent one stormy Valentine's Day visiting the site of the Battle of Culloden (if you don't know what that is, look it up, it's not a rose petal strewn palace). But I do know that from an early age, our relationship to love is informed by our relationship to what we eat and drink. And I'm convinced that one of the reasons I fell so deeply in love with food and wine is thanks to my Nanna teaching me from a young age that all food needed one extra ingredient: 'oomph'. Asking what 'oomph' was, she replied with the word: 'love'. How does this apply to wine? I'd argue that at its most elemental level, the process of winemaking is a loving one. Nurturing your vines, tending to them carefully throughout the year, harvesting them, creating an environment for the juice to ferment, giving the wine a space to age and mature into something that will be enjoyed by countless people – not just by the winemaker and their family and friends, but in homes around the world. Used in various rituals – from celebrations, anniversaries, reunions, even holy communion – it is a product that can bring people together in joyous union. And yes, wine can be sexy, too. Research proves that even a moderate amount of red wine can have a positive effect on libido in both men and women – in an Italian study carried out in Chianti in 2009, researchers found that women who consumed a daily (low to moderate) amount of red wine reported a higher score on the Female Sexual Function Index than both teetotallers and heavy drinkers. Surely something to get excited about! But what makes a wine romantic? I've selected a number of wines that I feel embody some of the more sensual elements of the drink – whether it's the heady bubbles of a sparkling wine, the committed winemaking techniques of a grower, the ethereal fruit of a lighter red or the depth and concentration of something fuller bodied and richer. Wine is such a subjective product – but perhaps these suggestions can serve as a jumping point to exploring more visceral pleasures (of the bottle, of course). Champagne Billecart Salmon, Le Rosé , France, NV Available nationwide, including The Wine Society £66, 12 per cent ABV Of all the styles of wine that are available, none can compete with the utterly unashamed romantic nature of champagne. And, while it might seem like a cliché, a fine rosé champagne is the most romantic of them all. I have picked what I see as a benchmark romantic champagne from the wonderful – and still family-owned – house of Billecart Salmon. The delicate light rose-pink-tinged wine is a blend of 40 per cent chardonnay, 30 per cent pinot noir and 30 per cent pinot meunier, which is then aged for 36 months on its lees (those delicious dead yeast cells). An added layer of depth and body comes from the 40 per cent of reserve wines being used. It has weaving, languorous bubbles and a silken delicate mouth feel with many layers from the primary fruits of wild strawberries, ripe raspberry and tangerine, giving way to soft baked buttery pastries, all brought together with uplifting acidity. It's a treat of a wine – and you deserve it. M&S Ken Forrester Stellenbosch Chenin Blanc, South Africa, 2024 In-store and online via Ocado, £13, 13 per cent ABV While the label might be anything but romantic, this chenin blanc created by the South African 'King of Chenin' Ken Forrester is a wonderful expression of this most expressive of grapes. Chenin has the ability to create wines that are steely bone dry, right through to unctuous honeyed elixirs. I have long admired Ken Forrester and his 'loving' approach to wine. He has a very hands-on approach to the stewardship of the land he farms and the people he works with – and has a clear philosophy that if every community looked after their own, 'no-one would go wanting... each bottle is a victory and represents a small change – for the better – in someone's life'. The wine itself is a medium bodied dry style of chenin, with a ripe stone fruit and pineapple character which comes through alongside lemon curd and bright acidity. Jour de Soif Bourgueil, Domaine du Bel Air, France, 2020 In-store and online Berry Bros & Rudd, £23.95, 13 per cent ABV I adore wines that give you moments to pause and linger with the person you're enjoying them with, whether a romantic or platonic love. Sharing that moment together, fading out all of the other noise and focusing only on the wine and the company. This lighter style of cabernet franc opens itself up to reveal a wine brimming with crushed cranberries, sour cherries and juicy, tart blackcurrants all balanced alongside energetic acidity and smooth tannins. M&S Primitivo Di Manduria, Notte Rossa, Italy, 2023 In-store and online via Ocado, £12, 13.5 per cent ABV If you think chocolates are romantic, why not try a wine that tastes like them? The characteristics of primitivo from Puglia in Southern Italy always make me think of rich, dark chocolate-covered strawberries. It is deep, generous and concentrated with ripe black plums, juicy cherries, licks of vanilla and a dusting of cinnamon spice, too. Perfectly indulgent.
