When to See a Doctor About Sexual Health Concerns

Talking about sexual health can feel private or awkward. But it’s a key part of your overall health and happiness. Many people experience changes or concerns in this area at some point. The good news is that help is available, and most problems can be treated. This guide will help you understand when it’s time to see a doctor, so you can take a positive step toward feeling better.

A Good Rule to Follow: When in Doubt, Get it Checked

A useful rule for sexual health is simple: see a doctor for any new symptom that doesn’t go away, or any existing symptom that gets worse.

Your feelings matter, too. If a concern is causing you stress, anxiety, or affecting your relationship, that’s a valid reason to seek help. Seeing a doctor early can often solve problems more easily and stop them from getting worse. Remember, sexual health is a normal part of overall health, and doctors are there to help.

Common Symptoms for Everyone: When to Schedule a Visit

Some signs are a clear signal to make a doctor’s appointment, whether you’re a man or a woman.

• Change in Sex Drive: A lasting drop in your interest in sexual activity, especially if it bothers you.

• Pain During or After Sex: This includes any new or ongoing pain, burning, or dryness. Pain is not normal and should always be checked.

• Trouble with Arousal: For men, this often means ongoing trouble getting or keeping an erection. For women, it can mean trouble with lubrication or feeling aroused.

• Problems with Orgasm: This includes consistently being unable to reach orgasm, a very long delay, or premature ejaculation that causes worry.

• Low Energy or Mood Shifts: Feeling very tired or having mood changes along with other sexual symptoms can sometimes point to hormonal issues (like low testosterone or thyroid problems) or other health conditions.

Specific Symptoms for Women

Women should see a doctor for:

• Unusual Vaginal Discharge: A change in color (like yellow or green), texture (very thick or clumpy), or smell, especially with itching or burning.

• Irregular Periods or Lasting Pelvic Pain: Unexplained changes in your cycle or ongoing pain in your pelvis can be linked to conditions like PCOS or endometriosis, which can affect sexual health.

• Severe Menopause Symptoms: Hot flashes, night sweats, and vaginal dryness that disrupt your daily life or sex life can often be managed with treatment.

Specific Symptoms for Men

Men should see a doctor for:

• Changes in Ejaculation: This includes pain during ejaculation, a noticeable drop in fluid amount, or concerns about timing.

• Possible Prostate Issues: Needing to urinate often, a sudden strong urge to go, a weak stream, or feeling like your bladder isn’t empty.

• Breast Tenderness or Swelling: This can occasionally signal a hormone imbalance.

If You Think You Have an Infection (STI)

Seek medical care quickly for any signs of a sexually transmitted infection (STI):

• Common Signs: Sores, bumps, or rashes on the genitals or mouth; unusual discharge; burning when you urinate; pelvic or abdominal pain.

• Get Tested: If you have symptoms, had unprotected sex with a new partner, or have multiple partners, get tested. Many STIs show no symptoms, so regular check-ups are important if you’re sexually active.

What Happens at the Doctor’s Office?

Knowing what to expect can make the visit easier.

1. Talking (History): Your doctor will ask about your symptoms, health history, medications, and lifestyle in a private, non-judgmental way.

2. Physical Exam: This may include a general check-up. Depending on your symptoms, it could involve an exam of the genitals. For women, this might include a pelvic exam. For men, it might include an exam of the penis and testicles, and sometimes the prostate.

3. Tests: Your doctor might suggest tests like blood tests (for hormones, blood sugar), urine tests, or swabs to check for infections.

4. Next Steps: Your doctor will discuss what might be causing the issue and work with you on a plan. This could include medicine, lifestyle tips, or a referral to a specialist like a urologist, gynecologist, or sex therapist.

Conclusion: Your Well-being Matters

Any sexual health concern that worries you or affects your daily life is worth talking about with a doctor. You are not alone, and effective help is out there. Making that appointment is a powerful and positive choice for your health and relationships.