Frequently Asked Questions About Sexual Health

1. Does a Man Go Through Menopause?

Yes, a man go through menopause but to a different extent as a woman. Menopause is a term used to describe the end of a woman's fertility. It literally means the end of menstruation. Female menopause is characterized by changes in hormone production. The male testes, unlike the woman's ovaries, do not lose the ability to make hormones. A healthy male may be able to make sperm well into his 80's or longer.

On the other hand, subtle changes in the function of the testes may occur as early as 45-50 years of age, and more dramatically after the age of 70. Since men do not go through a distinct period of male menopause, some doctors refer to this as androgen ( testosterone) deficiency in the aging male (ADAM). Men typically experience a decline in the production of testosterone due to aging but it can also be related to some diseases such as diabetes.

Whether waning function of the testicles contributes to such symptoms as fatigue, weakness, depression, decreased sexual desire, or impotence often remains uncertain.

There are treatments for these symptoms. If testosterone levels are low, replacing that hormone may help relieve symptoms, such as the loss of interest in sex, depression, and fatigue. However, replacing male hormones can worsen prostate cancer and high cholesterol levels. Talk to your doctor to see if hormone treatment is right for you.

2. How Often Should Women Get a Pelvic Exam and Pap Smear?

According to the American Cancer Society, it's a good idea for women to begin having yearly pelvic exams within 3 years of becoming sexually active, but no later then age 21, whichever comes first. The exam should also include a yearly Pap smear. Some women who have a higher risk of cancer may need to have a Pap smear more often. Women who have had normal Pap smear results for several years and have only one sex partner may need a Pap smear less often. Talk to your doctor to see what is right for you.

3. I Am Considering Circumcision for my Newborn Boy. What Are the Benefits? Are There Any Risks?

The use of circumcision in newborn boys for medical or health reasons is an issue that continues to be debated. Currently, the American Academy of Pediatrics does not recommend routine circumcision for newborn males. But, there is some evidence that circumcision has health benefits, including:

• A decreased risk of urinary tract infections
• A reduced risk of sexually transmitted diseases in men
• Protection against penile cancer and a reduced risk of cervical cancer in female sex partners
• Prevention of balanitis (inflammation of the glans) and balanoposthitis (inflammation of the glans and foreskin).
• Prevention of phimosis (the inability to retract the foreskin) and paraphimosis (the inability to return the foreskin to its original location)