Sexual Health
Contraception
When there are so many options, our gynecologists can help eliminate the confusion of which type of contraception is best for you.
We provide various methods of medical contraception, including
- Barrier methods (condom, sponge, diaphragm and cervical cap)
- Long-acting reversible contraception (intrauterine devices, implants)
- Combined hormonal birth control (pill, patch, vaginal ring)
- Sterilization
We can also counsel patients on natural methods.
Sexually Transmitted Infections
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) — also known as sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) — are infections that are spread by sexual contact. Although not all STDs can be cured, many can be treated.
Some of the most common STDs include:
- Chlamydia
- Gonorrhea
- Genital herpes
- Human papillomavirus (HPV)
- Syphilis
- Hepatitis B
Other Sexual Health Issues
Some common causes of sexual health issues in women include:
- Aging. A woman's libido sometimes decreases with age. This decrease is normal and usually is not a cause for concern, but problems can arise if one partner in a relationship desires sex more often than the other.
- Hormonal changes. Changes in hormones at certain times of a woman's life may cause changes in her interest in or response to sex. For example, decreased estrogen levels (such as during perimenopause and menopause) may cause vaginal dryness and lead to pain during intercourse.
- Stress and anxiety. Feeleing stressed or anxious can affect a woman's sexual health.
- Relationship problems. Emotional upheaval in a woman's relationship can cause obstacles to healthy sexual activity.
- Illness, including depression. Being sick or depressed could affect a woman's sexual wellness.
Your gynecologist can assist with some of these issues. You may have a physical examination, a pelvic exam and a blood test, depending on your symptoms. You may also be referred to another health care provider for other tests or specialized treatment.
Each type of female sexual dysfunction is treated differently, especially if they overlap. Treatment may include changing existing medications or taking new medication, such as estrogen to treat vaginal dryness. If a medical problem is suspected, you may need to have treatment directed at that specific problem.
