There are some health issues, such as intimate health issues, that we are too embarrassed to discuss with friends or loved ones, let alone a GP. However, intimate health problems are incredibly common and most are easy to treat, sometimes with over-the-counter medication. Although in some instances, if an intimate health issue is left untreated, it can become much worse and lead to serious problems.
Peyronie’s disease
Peyronie’s disease (PD) is a common condition that affects the penis. PD causes the erect penis to bend due to an abnormal plaque of collagen—a kind of scar tissue under the skin of the penis. It typically effects men in their fifties, but it can occur at any age. Estimates about how common it really is vary widely, but it is likely that as many as one in 20 men in the UK has PD. The bend can make penetrative sex difficult or impossible and as a result, can have a huge impact on emotional and psychological wellbeing, with half of affected men suffering from depression and relationship problems.
This common condition can cause great unhappiness and distress if left untreated. There are several good treatments available, including surgical and non-surgical options. If you have this condition, don’t be afraid to talk to your doctor about it. The website, thisispeyronies.co.uk, has been devised by international healthcare company Sobi to provide information, support and advice on treatment options to men suffering with PD.
Thrush
Vaginal thrush is a common yeast infection that affects most women at some point in their lives. Thrush develops if the natural balance of microorganisms in the vagina is disrupted. Typical symptoms of thrush include itching and soreness, vaginal discharge, pain during sex or a stinging sensation when urinating. Thrush can be easily treated with over-the-counter medication available from pharmacies, but it is advisable to get medical advice from your GP if it’s the first time you’ve had thrush, you’re under the age of 16 or over the age of 60, you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, or if your symptoms don’t improve.
To prevent thrush developing, avoid perfumed soaps and shower gels as these can act as potential irritants and upset the natural balance. Also avoid tight-fitting underwear or tights (especially those made of synthetic materials) and if you have diabetes, ensure that your blood sugar level is controlled.
See also: Intimate Issues
STIs
According to Public Health England, there were approximately 435,000 diagnoses of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in 2015, with chlamydia being the most commonly diagnosed STI.
Some people feel ashamed about contracting an STI and can be too embarrassed to visit a GP, however it is imperative to have regular sexual health tests as a number of STIs don’t have obvious symptoms and can cause severe side effects if left untreated.
Some common symptoms of an STI are pain when urinating, itching, burning, blisters, sores, spots or lumps around the genitals, unusual discharge, bleeding between periods or after sex, pain during sex, or lower abdominal pain. Most genitourinary medicine (GUM) clinics offer walk-in tests, and you can always visit your GP if you suspect you have an STI. Many STIs can be cured with a course of antibiotics, although some (such as HIV) have no cure, but can be managed to prevent the condition worsening. To prevent catching or passing on an STI, always practice safe sex and use condoms.
Urinary Tract Infections
More common among women then men, urinary tract infections (UTIs) can be a painful and uncomfortable intimate health issue, and occur when an infection affects the bladder and kidneys. There are two types of UTI: an upper UTI and a lower UTI. Lower UTIs are common and not a cause of major concern, but upper UTIs can become serious if left untreated.
The most common lower UTIs are cystitis (inflammation of the bladder, caused by a bladder infection) or urethrae. Some of the common symptoms of a lower UTI are the need to urinate more than usual, pain or discomfort when urinating, feeling as though you’re unable to fully empty your bladder or feeling generally unwell. Upper UTIs have similar symptoms, but can also cause a high temperature, pains in your back and sides, shivering and nausea.
UTIs are usually treated with a short course of antibiotics, and it’s also advisable to take over-the-counter painkillers to deal with any discomfort and to drink plenty of fluids.
Read more on Celebrity Angels about intimate health issues such as Peyronie’s Disease.
