Branches At Ernakulam, Kottayam, Thrissur, Angamaly, Alappuzha, Kerala, India

Sexual Health FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions About Sexual Health

Welcome to Your Sexual Health Resource. Dive into our Frequently Asked Questions About Sexual Health to uncover expert-backed insights, understand essential facts, and dispel common myths about sexual health.

FAQ Accordion

Dr. Rana’s Medical Hall offers a wide range of medical services related to sexual health including consultations, herbal treatments for various sexual issues like Erectile Dysfunction, Premature Ejaculation, Penile Size Issues, Sexually Transmitted Diseases, Vaginal Dryness and Low Libido in women etc, and counseling.

In order to schedule an appointment for consultation at Dr Rana’s Medical Hall, you can call and make one during our operating hours or go for an online appointment on our official website.

Dr. Rana’s Medical Hall specializes in addressing and redressing sexual issues like erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation, penile size issues, sexually transmitted diseases, libido concerns, vaginal dryness, and other allied sexual health conditions.

Three Easy Steps for Online Consultation

Step 1: Book Your Session

Begin by scheduling your session. Contact us at +918848511462 to book your online consultation at a convenient time.

Step 2: Meet Your Doctor

Engage with our specialized medical professionals via Direct Call, WhatsApp, Botim, or Zoom. Enjoy personalized care and attention in a secure virtual environment.

Step 3: Receive Your Personalized Treatment Plan

After your consultation, receive a tailor-made treatment plan designed specifically to address your unique health needs.

How to Initiate online consultation: Simply call Dr. Rana’s Medical Hall at +918848511462. A convenient time slot for your virtual consultation will be scheduled in accordance with your preference.

Consultation Cost: Within India – Rs 700/-, Abroad – Rs 1000/-.

Effectiveness: Online consultation is as effective as in-person visits. Engage directly with our sexologist for effective diagnosis and treatment with 100% herbal medicines, shipped right to your doorstep.

Languages: Consultations are available in multiple languages including English, Hindi, Malayalam, Tamil, and Urdu.

Are the consultation fees inclusive of prescribed medicines? No, the consultation fees cover the doctor’s expertise and examination only. You may need to purchase prescribed medicines separately from us.

Medicine Delivery: After your consultation, there’s no need to worry about picking up your medicines. We ensure a seamless process from consultation to delivery. Your prescribed medicines will be delivered directly to your location.

Follow-Up Consultations: Depending on your condition, follow-up consultations may be recommended for ongoing monitoring.

Confidentiality: Your personal health information is kept confidential, with strict adherence to privacy and security protocols.

For further details or to book an online consultation, visit our consultation form.

Definitely, a patient’s profile and treatment details are kept in strict confidentiality by Dr Rana’s Medical Hall, as we consider this as the basic ethics of medical practice.

Dr. Rana’s Medical Hall has six decades of experience in treating sexual disorders. We combine the wisdom and knowledge of our forefathers with modern practices to create a holistic herbal path for sexual treatment.

The duration of a consultation varies due to the nature and severity of the disorder. It may range from 30 minutes to an hour or more, and some cases may require multiple sessions.

Expertise in Unani and Ayurvedic Medicine: Dr. Althaf Ibrahem Rana, the chief sexologist at Dr. Rana’s Medical Hall, along with his team of junior sexologists, hold university degrees in the Unani stream of medicine. Dr. Althaf also possesses extensive experience in Ayurvedic medicine.

Heritage of Medical Excellence: Stemming from a lineage of illustrious ancestors who were renowned Unani medical practitioners in royal courts, Dr. Althaf has combined this inherited knowledge with modern medical practices.

Developing a Holistic Herbal Path: This unique blend of traditional and contemporary medical knowledge has led to the development of a holistic herbal approach, unparalleled in treating and expelling all types of sexual disorders.

Erectile Dysfunction is a condition marked by the inability to achieve proper erections. It can be due to various factors including chronic diseases, lifestyle issues, and psychological factors. Dr Rana’s Medical Hall offers treatments that combine herbal medication and psychological counseling.

Premature ejaculation is a tormenting sexual disorder causing great havoc to the smooth sexual flow. In this disorder, during sexual intercourse, the male ejaculates way before he attains real orgasm or sexual fulfillment. The reasons behind Premature Ejaculation include chronic diseases, heart ailments, hormone imbalances, irregular levels of brain chemicals, swelling and infection of the prostate and urethra, Parkinson’s disease, Multiple Sclerosis, surgery-related problems, inherited traits, performance anxiety, stress, tension, obesity, smoking, alcoholism, sedentary lifestyle, lack of exercise, non-consumption of balanced food, and relationship issues.

Actually, the size of the penis has no direct influence on sexual interaction. Normally a penis of 5 inches size, when erected, is apt for hearty sexual interaction. The tragedy is that most people who are addicted to porn magazines and videos compare their penile sizes with those of porn stars and their exaggerated sexual performance. This often instigates a psychological problem, developing an inferiority complex and compelling the person to exhibit poor sex or abstinence from sex. However, some people with a penile size below 3 inches when erect or with penile shrinkage need to be treated clinically.

Sexually Transmitted Diseases or Venereal Diseases are life-harming diseases caused by unprotected sexual interaction with multiple or unknown partners, or with a partner who has STD. Main sexually transmitted diseases include Gonorrhea, Syphilis, Chlamydia, Trichomoniasis, HPV, HIV, and Genital Herpes, transmitted by bacteria, virus, and parasite. They cause skin burns, scratches, destroy the functions of genital tracts and internal organs, and can even cause arthritis. Engaging sexually with a single known partner and using latex condoms with an unknown partner are the best self-remedies. If contracted, clinical management and treatment, preferably herbal, are recommended.

Low libido or inhibition in sexual activities can affect women at different phases of their lives due to various reasons, including hereditary, chronic, menopause-related, hormonal, lifestyle, relationship, and psychological issues. Vaginal Dryness is another significant disorder that occurs due to factors like nearing menopause, chronic diseases, surgery-related problems, lifestyle issues, and relationship issues.

Factors like age, health conditions, hormonal imbalances, and lifestyle choices can contribute to infertility.

Regular, consistent, and heated intercourse throughout the menstrual cycle enhances the chances of conception, proving fertility.

Adequate testosterone levels are crucial for sperm production and overall reproductive health in men.

Yes, hormone imbalances can affect libido, arousal, erection, timely evacuation, perfect orgasm, and overall sexual function in both men and women.

Age is a staunch influencer as far as fertility is concerned. Both male and female fertility decline with age.

Yes, factors like smoking, excessive alcohol intake, obesity, no intake of balanced food, lack of exercises and workouts, stress, all can negatively impact fertility.

Conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), endometriosis, and certain hormonal disorders can contribute to infertility.

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, managing stress, having a balanced diet, and regular workouts can positively influence fertility.

Yes, Dr Rana’s Medical Hall is a legendary sexual wellness clinic working on the Unani tenets of medicine. For the last six decades, it has worked to emancipate all types of sexual disorders and diseases. Another area in which Dr Rana’s Medical Hall excels is giving herbal treatment having no side effects to improve testosterone levels and fertility and correct ejaculation and attainment of orgasm.

Condoms are the only form of protection that can both help to stop the transmission of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) such as HIV and prevent pregnancy.

Wearing a condom has double advantage:

  • Protects from STDs like HIV.
  • Prevents unwanted pregnancy.

Selecting the Right Condom:

  • Latex condoms are more effective and less likely to tear. Not suitable with oil-based lubricants.
  • Polyurethane condoms are thinner and may offer better sensation.
  • Size varies across brands; it’s advisable to try different sizes for the best fit.

How to Use a Condom:

  • Check the expiry date before use.
  • Open the package carefully without damaging the condom.
  • Pinch the tip if there’s no reservoir, then unroll it on the erect penis.
  • Smooth out any air bubbles and use water-based lubricants if needed.

Proper Usage Entails:

  • Not too tight at the end, leave room for ejaculation.
  • Avoid oil-based lubricants with latex condoms.
  • Use a new condom for each sexual encounter.

Many men and women feel anxious about having sex during periods because we have been culturally conditioned to believe that menstruation is something dirty. There are also many misconceptions about the medical aspects of sex during periods. Medically, it is normal to have sex during periods. The safe sex practices required to avoid pregnancy and STDs when a woman is not menstruating should also be used during periods.

  1. Can sex during periods result in pregnancy? Chances of pregnancy during periods are minimal. However, if you strictly want to avoid pregnancy it is advisable to use an adequate birth-control method each time you have intercourse, including during periods. Though the chances of pregnancy during periods are very low, they are not entirely absent because sperm can survive in the body for a few days and there is a meager chance that an early ovulation will cause pregnancy.
  2. Will contact with menstrual blood cause sexually-transmitted diseases (STD)? Menstrual blood is nothing but normal human blood mixed with tissues lining the uterus. Contact with menstrual blood is not harmful in any way. If your partner has an STD, you have a high chance of contracting it and you should use a condom during intercourse, both during periods and otherwise.
  3. Does sex during periods cause HIV infection? Sex during periods cannot cause HIV infection unless one of the partners is HIV infected. Unprotected intercourse with an HIV infected partner can cause HIV infection, regardless of periods. The only connection between HIV and sex during periods is that the chances of HIV transmission from an HIV infected person to his/her partner are higher if they have sex during periods. If you have the slightest concern about HIV infection, the thumb rule is to use a condom regardless of periods.
  4. Will contact with menstrual blood harm the penis? No, menstrual blood will not harm the penis in any way. The worries and concerns about menstrual blood stem from the fact that we have been socially tabooed to see it as a dirty fluid. Scientifically, menstrual fluid is a mix of blood and tissues that line the uterus every month to prepare it for pregnancy. If pregnancy does not occur, the tissue is shed because it is no longer required.
  5. Can sex during periods injure the uterus? No, sex during periods cannot injure the uterus. There is a common perception that the mouth of the uterus opens up during periods and the penis can poke into it and hurt the uterus. This is not correct. Menstrual fluid oozes out of a very small opening in the mouth of the uterus. The penis can never poke in through this opening.
  6. Is sex during periods a perversion? You would be happy to know that a large number of couples have sex during periods. From the medical standpoint, sex during periods is absolutely normal. So if you too indulge in it, there is absolutely no need to feel guilty or anxious.
  7. Will sex during periods stop bleeding? Some women do notice that their periods stop within a day or so of sexual intercourse. This does not mean that the menstrual blood has been pushed back into the uterus and is unable to flow out. It happens primarily because sexual intercourse causes uterine contractions that expel the menstrual fluids and tissue faster, thus causing the bleeding to stop sooner than usual.
  8. Will sex during periods relieve menstrual cramps? Yes, some women do experience a decrease in menstrual cramps if they have sexual intercourse. This can happen because of multiple factors. On one hand, orgasm causes the release of some chemicals in the body that have pain-relieving properties. Some scientists also believe that this happens because excess cramp-causing chemicals called prostaglandins get used up.
  9. Is it ok to have oral sex during periods? Yes, from the health perspective, it is ok to have oral sex during periods. It is advisable to use a dental dam if you have oral sex with a menstruating female partner.
  10. Should I remove my tampon before having sex during periods? Yes, always remember to remove your tampon before having sex during periods. If you do not do this there is a chance that the tampon will get pushed up in your vagina and if it is left there for a prolonged period, it can cause infection.

Losing the sex drive can feel very depressing and can cause lots of problems in any relationship. Here are some practical tips on reviving your sex drive:

  1. Good Communication: Communicate well with your partner. Discuss your feelings to prevent feelings of rejection or hurt and to gain support.
  2. Give Time for Sex: Busy lives can hinder intimacy. Make time for closeness with your partner, even if it’s just cuddling.
  3. Feel Good About Yourself: Being sexy is about self-confidence. Self-pleasuring helps keep pubococcygeal muscles relaxed.
  4. Set the Scene – Healthy Atmosphere: Tidy up your space and use scents or perfumed candles to create a conducive environment for intimacy.
  5. Try Something New: Change your routine, try new sexual positions, more foreplay, or massage each other to enhance arousal.
  6. Sex Toys, Aphrodisiacs: Explore comfortable sex aids. Foods like asparagus, oysters, and chocolates can stimulate vigor.
  7. Realistic Approach: Communicate with your partner about your readiness for intimacy, especially after significant life events like childbirth.
  8. Reach for Lubricants: Lubrication is important for preventing discomfort during intercourse, especially if experiencing dryness.
  9. It’s Not Me, It’s Him: Address issues like erectile dysfunction or premature ejaculation with reassurance and seek appropriate treatment.
  10. Sleep and Diet: Ensure adequate sleep and a healthy diet to maintain overall and sexual health.

Is it ok to have sex during pregnancy? As long as your pregnancy is proceeding normally, you can have sex as often as you like. However, hormonal fluctuations, fatigue, and physical changes might affect your sexual desire.

Can sex during pregnancy cause a miscarriage? Most early miscarriages are related to chromosomal abnormalities. It’s generally advised to avoid sex during the first trimester and the last trimester to minimize risks.

Does sex during pregnancy harm the baby? Your baby is protected by amniotic fluid and the mucous plug in your cervix, so sex won’t harm the baby.

What are the best sexual positions during pregnancy? Most positions are safe, but it’s recommended to find those which are most comfortable for you, especially as your pregnancy progresses. Positions that avoid direct pressure on the abdomen, such as spooning, woman on top, or hands and knees, are often recommended.

What about oral and anal sex during pregnancy? Oral sex is safe during pregnancy but avoid allowing air to be blown into the vagina. Anal sex may be uncomfortable due to pregnancy-related hemorrhoids and can carry a risk of infection.

Should my partner use a condom? Using a condom can prevent the transmission of STDs, which is especially important during pregnancy to protect both you and the baby’s health.

Can orgasms trigger premature labor? Orgasms can cause uterine contractions, but these are not the same as labor contractions and generally do not increase the risk of premature labor in a normal pregnancy.

Are there times when sex should be avoided during pregnancy? Yes, avoid sex if there’s a risk of premature labor, unexplained vaginal bleeding, leaking amniotic fluid, cervical issues, placenta previa, or if there’s an active STD.

After the baby is born, how soon can I have sex? It’s generally recommended to wait four to six weeks after childbirth before resuming intercourse, to allow your body time to heal.

Occasional masturbation is normal in both males and females. You need not feel guilty or worried about engaging in it. But it is a cause for concern if you think you are obsessed with it and it is interfering with your routine activities. In such a case, it may be advisable for you to develop more control over yourself. Here are some practical tips that can help you overcome the habit of masturbation:

When do you masturbate?

  • Identify the times of the day when you spend maximum time masturbating.
  • If you tend to do it mostly at night, some exercise before going to bed will help as it will tire you out and you will have less energy to masturbate.
  • Go to bed in pajamas or other night suits that do not let you touch your genital organ easily.
  • If you mostly do masturbation in the morning, make it a point to jump out of bed as soon as you are awake.
  • If you find yourself masturbating during the daytime, you need to think about how you can keep yourself busier.
  • Distract yourself immediately when you have an urge to masturbate.

Why do you masturbate too much?

  • Many a time the desire to masturbate is an outcome of loneliness, boredom, or frustration.
  • Ask yourself if you are masturbating too much to escape these feelings.

Dos and Don’ts

  • Strictly stop looking at pornography.
  • Exercise daily.
  • Go to the bathroom often to keep your bladder empty.

You can stop it: Tell yourself again and again that you can stop it. Look at it as a test of your willpower. Put a note on your wall saying something like “I am my own master”.

Male fertility depends on sperm quality and quantity, which can be affected by various factors. Here’s what you need to know to maximize fertility:

Normal Sperm Characters

  • Normal ejaculate volume is between 2 and 6 ml.
  • Sperm Quantity: More than 20 million sperm per milliliter of semen.
  • Sperm Quality: More than one-third of your sperm should be of normal shape and structure (More than 30% normal forms is a strict criterion).
  • A normal sperm has an oval head and a long tail that propels it forward.
  • Sperm with abnormal shapes are less likely to fertilize an egg.
  • Motility: Sperm must be motile to reach and penetrate the egg. Greater than 50% total sperm motility or 25% progressively motile sperm is typical.

How to Improve Sperm Quality

  • Take a daily multivitamin with selenium, zinc, and folic acid.
  • Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables rich in antioxidants.
  • Reduce stress and get regular exercise, but avoid overexertion.
  • Maintain a healthy weight.
  • Quit tobacco and limit alcohol use.
  • Avoid anabolic steroids and personal lubricants during sex.

Separating Facts from Fictions

  • Prolonged cycling can affect sperm production due to increased scrotal temperature.
  • Illness causing fever can impact sperm quality, typically affecting fertility after two to three months.
  • Sperm counts are higher in winter and lower in summer, possibly due to temperature effects on sperm production.

Safe sex is the practice of intercourse that prevents the direct contact and exchange of bodily fluids such as semen, vaginal fluid, breast milk, and saliva. This helps reduce the risk of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) and pregnancy. Common methods for safe sex include:

  • Male Condoms
  • Latex Surgical Gloves
  • Plastic Wrap
  • Sex without penetration
  • Dry Sex
  • Female Condoms

These methods protect against pregnancy and STDs.

Common Sexually Transmitted Diseases

  • Genital Herpes
  • Genital Warts
  • Human Immunodeficiency Virus Infection (HIV)
  • Chlamydia
  • Gonorrhea
  • Syphilis
  • Hepatitis B
  • Hepatitis C

Hurdles to Safe Sex

  • Not using condoms
  • Lack of information about partner’s sexual history
  • Engaging in non-traditional sexual activities without precautions
  • Increased risk among intravenous drug users
  • Alcohol and drug use leading to unsafe sexual practices

Tips for Safe Sex

  • Use water-based lubricants with condoms; avoid oil-based products.
  • Use a condom only once and wear it correctly.
  • Leave space at the tip of the condom for semen.
  • Avoid non-preferred sexual methods or use condoms and precautions if engaging in them.
  • Use condoms on sex toys and do not exchange them between partners.
  • Dispose of used condoms immediately.

Struggling with sexual stimulation, drive, or misconceptions? Discover some stimulating facts about sex that might help reduce the latent phase of stimulation:

  1. Burn Calories in Bed: Vigorous sex for half an hour can burn 150 calories, potentially losing two kilos a year with regular activity.
  2. Global Frequency: Approximately 100 million acts of sexual intercourse happen daily around the world.
  3. Kissing Burns Calories: Lose 26 calories with a minute of kissing and more with extended durations.
  4. Japanese Men’s Sexual Frequency: Japanese men engage in sex the least, averaging 36 times a year.
  5. Headache and Sex: Full-fledged orgasmic intercourse might relieve headaches due to the release of endorphins.
  6. Kissing and Oral Health: The extra saliva exchanged during kissing can help reduce tooth decay.
  7. Frequency of Sexual Thoughts: 54% of men and 19% of women think about sex daily or several times a day.
  8. Highest Sexual Activity: American men lead with an average of 124 times per year, followed by Greeks and then Indians.
  9. Condom Usage: Annually, between six and nine billion condoms are used worldwide, with Thailand being the largest producer.
  10. Condoms in Radiology: Radiologists use condoms to cover ultrasound probes during rectal exams for prostate glands.

Stay tuned for more exciting facts and tips to enhance your sexual experience.

An orgasm (sexual climax) is the conclusion of the plateau phase of the sexual response cycle, experienced by both males and females. It involves quick cycles of muscle contraction in the lower pelvic muscles, surrounding the primary sexual organs and the anus.

Achieving Orgasm

  • The most common way of achieving orgasm in women is by the stimulation of the clitoris.
  • Orgasm can occur during vaginal intercourse, oral sex (cunnilingus), masturbation, or non-penetrative sex.
  • Stimulation of the nipples, uterus, or other erotic zones can also lead to orgasm.
  • Psychological arousal, such as during dreaming, may lead to orgasm.
  • Stimulation of an internal structure called Skene’s gland (G-spot) is important in female orgasm.

Anal Stimulation

“Anal orgasm” can be achieved through anal stimulation during anal sex, or with fingers or sex toys. This can be pleasurable for both men and women without clitoral stimulation.

Breast and Nipple Stimulation

A “breast orgasm” is triggered by the stimulation of a woman’s breast and nipples.

Medical Aspects of Orgasm

  • Orgasm in women lasts longer than in men.
  • It is preceded by stiffening of the clitoris and moistening of the vaginal opening.
  • During orgasm, the outer part of the vagina tightens and narrows, while the vagina lengthens, dilates, and becomes engorged.
  • This is followed by muscular contractions in the uterus.
  • During a full orgasm, a woman’s uterus, vagina, anus, and pelvic muscles undergo rhythmic contractions.

Multiple Orgasms

Some women can experience a second orgasm soon after the first without a refractory period, often finding subsequent climaxes to be stronger or more pleasurable. However, the clitoris and nipples may become very sensitive post-climax, making further stimulation painful for some.

Dry orgasm, characterized by an orgasm without the discharge of semen, can be caused by various factors. While typically not a health concern, it can affect fertility.

Common Causes of Dry Orgasm

  • Retrograde Ejaculation: Semen is forced back into the bladder instead of exiting through the penis. Can be caused by diabetes, prostate surgery, or certain medications like alpha-blockers.
  • Surgical Removal of the Prostate (Prostatectomy).
  • Surgical Removal of the Bladder (Cystectomy).
  • Radiation Therapy: Directed at the pelvic area, such as for prostate cancer.

If you are experiencing concerns about dry orgasms or associated pain, it is advisable to consult a urologist for an evaluation. In cases where dry orgasm is due to retrograde ejaculation and infertility is an issue, sperm retrieval from urine post-orgasm may be a viable option for artificial insemination.

Glossary Section

Glossary of Sexual Health Terms

Glossary of Sexual Health Terms
Click the Alphabets
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

Abstinence:

Choosing not to engage in sexual activity, typically to prevent pregnancy or STIs.

Anal Sex:

Sexual activity involving penetration of the anus.

Aphrodisiac:

A substance or stimuli believed to enhance sexual desire or arousal.

Androgens:

Hormones, such as testosterone, responsible for male sexual development and characteristics.

Aromantic:

A person who experiences little to no romantic attraction to others.

Androgen Insensitivity Syndrome (AIS):

A condition where a person who is genetically male is resistant to male hormones, often leading to female characteristics.

Amenorrhea:

Absence of menstruation in a woman of reproductive age.

Arousal:

The physical and psychological state of being sexually stimulated.

Bacterial Vaginosis:

A vaginal condition caused by an imbalance of bacteria.

Bartholin's Cysts:

Fluid-filled sacs near the vaginal opening.

Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia:

Enlargement of the prostate gland that can cause urinary problems.

Birth Control:

Methods to prevent pregnancy.

Bisexuality:

Sexual orientation that encompasses sexual attraction to both men and women.

Breast Examination:

A physical or imaging examination of the breasts.

Body Image:

How a person perceives their physical body and appearance.

Cervix:

The lower, narrow end of the uterus that forms a canal into the vagina.

Chlamydia:

A common sexually transmitted infection (STI) that may not cause symptoms.

Condom:

A barrier device used during sexual intercourse to reduce the likelihood of pregnancy and STIs.

Consent:

An agreement between participants to engage in sexual activity.

Circumcision:

The surgical removal of the foreskin of the penis.

Clitoris:

An erogenous organ located at the front of the vulva.

Cunnilingus:

Oral sex performed on female genitals.

Dysmenorrhea:

Painful menstrual cramps during periods.

Dyspareunia:

Difficult or painful sexual intercourse.

Diaphragm:

A barrier method of birth control that is placed inside the vagina.

Dilation and Curettage:

A surgical procedure often performed after a miscarriage.

Douche:

A stream of water or other solutions used to clean the vagina, which is not medically recommended.

Dysphoria:

A profound state of unease or dissatisfaction, often used in the context of gender dysphobia.

Desire:

A psychological urge for sexual activity or intimacy.

Ectopic Pregnancy:

A pregnancy that occurs outside the uterus, usually in the fallopian tube.

Ejaculation:

The release of semen from the penis during orgasm.

Endometriosis:

A medical condition where tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus.

Erectile Dysfunction (ED):

The consistent inability to achieve or maintain an erection sufficient for sexual intercourse.

Erectile Dysfunction:

The inability to get or keep an erection firm enough for sexual intercourse.

Estrogen:

A group of sex hormones responsible for the development and regulation of the female reproductive system and secondary sex characteristics.

Epididymitis:

Inflammation of the epididymis, usually caused by infection.

Eroticism:

Sexual arousal or excitement.

Emergency Contraception:

Methods to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex or birth control failure.

Fertility:

The ability to conceive and reproduce.

Fertilization:

The process of sperm and egg meeting to create a fertilized embryo.

Fetishes:

Sexual attraction or arousal related to specific objects, body parts, or situations.

Fallopian Tubes:

Tubes along which eggs travel from the ovaries to the uterus.

Foreskin:

The retractable fold of skin that covers the head of the penis.

Fibroids:

Noncancerous growths in the uterus.

Frottage:

Rubbing against another person’s body for sexual pleasure.

Fungal Infections:

Infections in the genital area caused by fungi, like yeast infections.

Family Planning:

The practice of controlling the number and spacing of children.

Gender Dysphoria:

Distress caused by the incongruence between a person's gender identity and assigned sex at birth.

Genital Herpes:

A common STI caused by the herpes simplex virus. Also, a sexually transmitted infection causing herpes sores, which are painful blisters (fluid-filled bumps) that can break open and ooze fluid.

Gonorrhea:

A bacterial STI that can affect various parts of the body. Also known as a sexually transmitted bacterial infection.

Gender Identity:

A personal conception of oneself as male, female, a blend of both or neither.

Gynecology:

The medical practice dealing with the health of the female reproductive systems.

Genderqueer:

A gender identity that does not adhere to binary notions of male or female.

Gynecomastia:

Enlargement of a man's breasts, usually due to hormone imbalance or hormone therapy.

Gestation:

The process or period of developing inside the womb between conception and birth.

Heterosexual:

Individuals attracted to the opposite sex for romantic or sexual relationships.

HIV/AIDS:

A viral infection that weakens the immune system and can be transmitted sexually. Also refers to Human Immunodeficiency Virus, which attacks the immune system and can lead to AIDS.

Hormonal Imbalance:

An irregularity in hormone levels that can affect sexual health.

Human Papillomavirus (HPV):

An STI that causes warts and can lead to cancer.

Hymen:

A thin membrane that partially covers the vaginal opening.

Hypersexuality:

Extremely frequent or suddenly increased sexual urges or sexual activity.

Hormone Replacement Therapy:

Medications containing female hormones to replace the ones the body no longer makes after menopause.

Herpes Simplex:

A virus causing contagious sores, most often around the mouth or on the genitals.

Hysterectomy:

A surgical operation to remove all or part of the uterus.

Infertility:

The inability to conceive or carry a pregnancy to term.

Intrauterine Device (IUD):

A long-lasting contraceptive device placed inside the uterus.

Impotence:

Also known as erectile dysfunction; the inability to achieve or maintain an erection.

Intersex:

A variety of conditions where a person is born with a reproductive or sexual anatomy that doesn't fit typical definitions of male or female.

In Vitro Fertilization (IVF):

A process of fertilization where an egg is combined with sperm outside the body.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS):

A common disorder affecting the large intestine, often associated with stress, diet, and hormonal changes.

Infection:

The invasion and multiplication of microorganisms in body tissues, especially causing harm or disease.

Jaundice:

A condition characterized by yellowing of the skin and eyes, can be related to liver health and diseases.

Jock Itch:

A fungal infection in the groin area, commonly seen in athletes.

Jelly Lubricant:

A water-based lubricant commonly used during sexual activities to reduce friction.

Kegel Exercises:

Pelvic floor exercises to strengthen the muscles responsible for sexual function.

Kink:

Unconventional sexual preferences or practices.

Klinefelter Syndrome:

A genetic condition in males where they have an extra X chromosome.

Knismolagnia:

Sexual arousal derived from tickling.

Kissing:

A physical expression of affection, often an important aspect of sexual foreplay.

Labia:

The folds of skin surrounding the vaginal and clitoral areas.

Libido:

A person's sexual desire or drive.

Luteinizing Hormone:

A hormone that triggers ovulation and the development of the corpus luteum in females.

Lesbian:

A woman who is emotionally and sexually attracted to other women.

Lubrication:

Moisture produced naturally or applied to reduce friction during sexual activity.

Lymphogranuloma Venereum:

A sexually transmitted infection caused by certain types of chlamydia trachomatis.

Masturbation:

Self-stimulation of the genitals for sexual pleasure.

Menopause:

The time when menstrual periods permanently stop, marking the end of fertility.

Menstruation:

The monthly shedding of the uterine lining, also known as a period.

Morning-After Pill:

Emergency contraception used to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex.

Monogamy:

A relationship structure where partners have sexual relations exclusively with each other.

Mycoplasma Genitalium:

A sexually transmitted bacterium that can cause urinary and genital tract infections.

Mammogram:

An X-ray image of the breast used for cancer screening.

Nocturnal Emission:

Involuntary ejaculation during sleep, also known as a "wet dream."

Nymphomania:

An outdated term once used to describe excessive or uncontrollable female sexual desire.

Nonbinary:

A gender identity that doesn't fit within the traditional definitions of male or female.

Narcissism:

A mental condition characterized by a great need for admiration and a lack of empathy for others, often causing challenges in sexual relationships.

Neisseria Gonorrhoeae:

The bacterium that causes gonorrhea.

Natural Family Planning:

A method of birth control that involves tracking the menstrual cycle to predict fertile days.

Nonoxynol-9:

A spermicide used in some condoms and contraceptive products.

Orgasm:

The peak of sexual pleasure, accompanied by muscle contractions and often ejaculation.

Ovulation:

The release of an egg from the ovary, part of the menstrual cycle.

Ovarian Cysts:

Fluid-filled sacs in or on the ovaries.

Oral Sex:

Sexual activity involving the stimulation of the genitalia using the mouth.

Obstetrics:

The field of medicine concerned with childbirth and the care of women giving birth.

Oxytocin:

A hormone associated with childbirth, breastfeeding, and bonding, sometimes called the "love hormone."

Orchiectomy:

Surgical removal of one or both testicles.

Penis:

The male organ used for sexual and urinary functions.

Polyamory:

Engaging in multiple romantic or sexual relationships with the consent of all parties.

Pap Smear:

A test for cervical cancer in women.

Prostate:

A gland in the male reproductive system that produces seminal fluid.

Puberty:

The period during which adolescents reach sexual maturity and become capable of reproduction.

Pelvic Inflammatory Disease:

An infection of the female reproductive organs, often caused by STIs.

Phimosis:

A condition where the foreskin cannot be fully retracted over the head of the penis.

Queer:

An umbrella term for sexual and gender minorities who are not heterosexual or cisgender.

Questioning:

The process of exploring one's own sexual orientation or gender identity.

Quiescent:

In a state of inactivity or dormancy, often used in the context of sexual desire or libido.

Quickening:

The first movements of the fetus felt by the pregnant individual, usually during the second trimester.

Quinolones:

A class of antibiotics used to treat various bacterial infections, including some STIs.

Queef:

A vaginal fart, caused by air being expelled from the vagina.

Q-Spot:

A term sometimes used to refer to a sensitive area in the vagina, similar to the G-spot.

Reproductive Health:

The well-being of the reproductive system and sexual health.

Romantic Attraction:

Emotional and affectionate feelings toward someone, often distinct from sexual attraction.

Retrograde Ejaculation:

A condition where semen enters the bladder instead of emerging from the penis during orgasm.

Rape:

Non-consensual sexual intercourse that involves the use of force or threat.

Risk Reduction:

Strategies used to decrease the risk of contracting STIs and unintended pregnancies.

Rhythm Method:

A form of natural family planning based on the menstrual cycle.

Rogaine:

A medication used to treat hair loss, mentioned here as it can affect sexual health in some cases.

Safer Sex:

Practices aimed at reducing the risk of STIs and unwanted pregnancies.

Sex Education:

Formal or informal instruction about sexual health and relationships.

Sexual Arousal:

The state of being sexually excited or stimulated.

Spermicide:

A substance that kills sperm, used for contraception.

Syphilis:

A sexually transmitted bacterial infection.

Sterilization:

A permanent method of contraception.

Sexual Dysfunction:

Problems that prevent an individual from experiencing satisfaction from sexual activity.

Testosterone:

A male sex hormone that plays a key role in the development of male reproductive tissues.

Transgender:

Individuals whose gender identity differs from their assigned sex at birth.

Tubal Ligation:

A surgical procedure for female sterilization.

Trichomoniasis:

A sexually transmitted infection caused by a parasite.

Testicular Cancer:

Cancer that develops in the testicles.

Tantric Sex:

A form of sexual expression that incorporates spiritual and physical aspects, focusing on deep connection and prolonged engagement.

Thrush:

A common yeast infection in the genital area, causing itching, burning, and discharge.

Uterus:

The female reproductive organ where fertilized eggs develop into embryos.

Urethra:

The tube through which urine and semen exit the body.

Urinary Tract Infection (UTI):

An infection in any part of the urinary system, often causing pain and frequent urination.

Urolagnia:

A paraphilia involving sexual excitement from urine or urination.

Ultrasound:

A diagnostic imaging technique used in sexual and reproductive health.

Uterine Fibroids:

Noncancerous growths in the uterus that can cause pain and other symptoms.

Undescended Testicles:

A condition in which one or both testicles have not moved into the scrotum.

Vagina:

The internal female reproductive organ connecting the cervix to the external genitalia.

Vulva:

The external female genitalia, including the labia, clitoris, and vaginal opening.

Vasectomy:

A surgical procedure for male sterilization.

Virginity:

Often defined as the state of a person who has never engaged in sexual intercourse.

Vaginismus:

A condition involving involuntary muscle spasms in the pelvic floor that interfere with vaginal intercourse or other penetration.

Vaginal Dryness:

A lack of moisture in the vagina, often occurring during menopause.

Venereal Disease:

Another term for sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).

Withdrawal Method:

A form of contraception where the male withdraws his penis from the vagina before ejaculation.

Wet Dream:

Involuntary ejaculation during sleep; also known as nocturnal emission.

Womb:

Another term for the uterus, the organ in the female body where the fetus develops.

Women's Health:

A branch of medicine focusing on health issues specific to the female body.

Warts (Genital):

Small bumps on the genital area caused by certain types of human papillomavirus (HPV).

Well-Woman Exam:

A regular health check for women to assess their reproductive health.

Waxing:

Hair removal method that can affect the skin around the genital area.

Xenophobia:

Fear or prejudice against people from other countries, sometimes overlapping with issues of sexual orientation and gender identity in diverse societies.

Xenoestrogens:

Synthetic compounds that mimic estrogen in the body and can disrupt hormonal balance.

X-Linked:

A mode of genetic inheritance where the gene causing the trait or disorder is located on the X chromosome.

X-Ray:

A diagnostic imaging technique sometimes used in reproductive health assessments.

XX Chromosome:

A female sex chromosome configuration.

XY Chromosome:

A male sex chromosome configuration.

Xerosis:

Medical term for dry skin, which can affect the genital area.

Yeast Infection:

A common fungal infection in the genital area, causing itching, burning, and discharge.

Y-Chromosome:

The sex chromosome found only in males.

Yonic:

A term related to the female genitalia, analogous to 'phallic' for male genitalia.

Yoga (for Sexual Health):

Practices that can enhance sexual health and intimacy through relaxation and body awareness.

Yearly Screening:

Annual health checks that can include screenings for sexual health issues.

Yohimbine:

An herbal supplement used for erectile dysfunction and sexual problems.

Yeast:

Microorganisms that can cause infections in the genital area.

Zygote:

The initial cell formed when a sperm cell unites with an egg, marking the beginning of pregnancy.

Zinc:

An essential mineral that plays a role in fertility and sexual health.

Zika Virus:

A virus transmitted through mosquito bites or sexual contact, known to cause birth defects.

Zona Pellucida:

A glycoprotein layer surrounding the plasma membrane of mammalian oocytes, essential for fertilization.

Zoophilia:

A paraphilia involving sexual attraction to animals.

Zero Population Growth:

A condition of demographic balance where the number of people in a specified population neither grows nor declines.

Zygote Intrafallopian Transfer (ZIFT):

A fertility treatment in which a zygote is placed into the fallopian tube.

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