Intimate Health Concerns

Lack of Orgasm

For many, sex can either bring great pleasure or a lot of stress. If you're stressed out before or after sex because you haven't had an orgasm, either with a particular partner or never in your life, you're not alone.

Open communication with your partner is key to addressing intimate health issues, although talking about orgasms may seem like an especially touchy subject. Don't be afraid that your partner won't like to hear that what he's doing may not work for you. Be honest; it's better to talk with your partner and help them understand your needs, rather faking an orgasm for their sake. It may help to schedule an appointment with a gynecologist or therapist to ask for advice about how to start the conversation.

However, don't forget that your orgasms or sexual satisfaction is also partly your own responsibility. It's astonishing how many women don't know where their clitoris is. Learn more about your body and listen to it. This is an indispensable first step before you can enjoy having a great sex.

Poor Body Image

It's been said that "body image" problems are prevalent only among teens and women in their early 20s. The truth is, low self-esteem and anxiety stemming from a poor body image persist into adulthood. Adult women, like teens, are constantly bombarded with similar images of how they should look, act, dress, and feel.

Am I normal? Is she prettier than me? How often you ask yourself similar questions may reflect poor body image. While this isn't a serious medical issue, it can lead to an unsatisfying sexual life and unhealthy eating habits. The psychological impact of how you perceive your body can definitely affect your overall wellbeing.

Although many women place extreme importance on making sure they like what they see in the mirror, it is crucial to understand the significance of looking beyond the superficial. There's more to your self-worth than a sagging body and a wrinkled face, or a slightly crooked nose or disproportionate legs. It's no secret our culture has been placing increasing value on appearance; it's the same culture that manufactures an unrealistic "physical ideal" through advertising and the media. The only solution is to pay attention to values that matter. Looks fade, while a person's character does not.

What about the appearance of your intimate body parts? Breast, vagina and pubic hair come in different shapes and sizes. If you need reassurance that yours is normal, see a doctor.

Pain During Sex

Uncomfortable pain during sex is another typical intimate health concern for many women. It is not uncommon if women experience pain during sex, but this can significantly reduce sexual desire and put a strain on a relationship. However, vaginal pain during sexual intercourse can be treated. Talk to your doctor about the discomfort you're feeling during sex. Pain may be caused by an infection, or even vulvodynia - a chronic pain that affects the vulvar or outer genital area.

Vaginal pain and dryness are two other contributors to pain during sex, both of which are caused naturally. The vaginal opening tends to get smaller as women age, which may come along with the vagina losing the ability to naturally lubricate. Women with these symptoms are often advised to use lubricant during sex, stay active and get enough sexual stimulation. If you've experienced pain for the first time, try applying cold compresses. Otherwise, visit a doctor immediately if home remedies and personal lubricant do not help.