The Ultimate Guide to Women’s Sexual Health, Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) & Menopause

Women's sexual health has been historically ignored in medical education, leading to widespread misinformation and dismissal of symptoms by doctors. The word "clitoris" is notably absent from standard gynecologist training.

Hormone fluctuations (due to birth control, breastfeeding, perimenopause, menopause) significantly impact genital and urinary health, causing issues like UTIs, dryness, pain, and leakage. Vaginal hormones (e.g., estradiol cream, suppositories, rings) are a safe, effective, and inexpensive preventative and treatment, even for those with a history of breast cancer, and can reduce UTIs by over 50%.

The FDA recently removed false warning labels on vaginal hormone products (which incorrectly claimed they caused stroke, blood clots, heart attacks, and probable dementia), making these life-saving treatments more accessible and encouraging their proper use.

Testosterone is a human hormone, not exclusive to men; women's testosterone naturally drops in their 30s, impacting libido, energy, mood, and urinary symptoms. While there is no FDA-approved testosterone product specifically for women in the US, global consensus supports its safety and efficacy for women, often using microdoses of male testosterone.

Approximately 23% (1 in 4) women have clitoral adhesions (where the clitoral hood is stuck), which can cause pain, discomfort, and impact orgasm. A simple, in-office procedure can significantly improve arousal, orgasm, and reduce pain, yet doctors are not routinely trained to examine the clitoris.