How long does a guy typically last in bed? How long does a woman want a guy to last in bed? In the latest episode of “A Healthy Point of View Podcast,” Sam Tejada, CEO and Founder of Liquivida®, sat down with Dr. Debra Durst, Founder and Physician at RevitalyzeMD, and no topic was off limits. A seasoned medical doctor with over 25 years of experience specializing in health and wellness, Dr. Durst knows that sexual health is essential for overall well-being.
Breaking the Silence on Sexual Health
Though it’s a subject that many shy away from discussing, sexual health plays a huge role in our overall health and happiness. Dr. Durst emphasizes the importance of providers and patients openly communicating about sexual health. “Patients are more proactive than providers,” she said, pointing out that many individuals are ready to discuss their concerns, but healthcare providers often hesitate to initiate these conversations.
The Importance of Addressing Sexual Health
For both men and women, sexual health can significantly impact mental health and relationships. Inconsistencies with erections may lead to anxiety and fear of recurring issues for men. Women may struggle with low sex drive, vaginal dryness, or a decrease in orgasmic strength. Despite these being common issues, primary care doctors, gynecologists, and urologists often fail to address them adequately, leaving patients without the support they need.
The Psychological Component
Highlighting the psychological impact of sexual health issues, Dr. Durst explains that hormonal imbalances affect not just the physical health of patients but also their mental well-being. For instance, women who undergo hysterectomies, even when their ovaries are preserved, often experience a significant decrease in hormone production, leading to an increased risk of depression and other psychiatric issues. This underscores Durst’s point of the need to treat the root causes of sexual dysfunction to prevent or alleviate these mental health challenges.
The Role of Regenerative Medicine
Regenerative medicine is an emerging field in treating sexual health issues. Unlike traditional medications like Viagra or Cialis, which address symptoms, regenerative treatments focus on restoring function. For example, acoustic shockwave therapy can help regenerate blood vessels in men, addressing the root causes of erectile dysfunction supporting not only performance but also maintaining healthy relationships and psychological well-being.
Libido vs. Erectile Dysfunction
There’s a distinct difference between libido (sex drive) and erectile dysfunction (ED). Dr. Durst clarified that while both issues affect sexual health, libido relates to a systemic symptom—overall sexual desire—which can be influenced by hormonal imbalances or psychological factors. Erectile dysfunction, on the other hand, is often related to blood flow issues, which can stem from chronic conditions like hypertension, diabetes, or cardiovascular disease.
The Importance of Communication
When it comes to sexual health, unrealistic expectations and misconceptions can cloud the conversation, and the importance of honest communication between partners can’t be stressed enough. Whether it’s about addressing decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, or any other concern, open conversations can lead to better outcomes. Many couples who seek treatment together often find that the process not only improves their sexual health but also rekindles their relationships.
Expectations Versus Realities
Dr. Durst notes that the type of pornography one watches can influence one’s expectations. While there’s nothing wrong with wanting to perform like an adult film star, —it’s not always realistic. The portrayal in such films often involves editing, special effects, and professional actors, which can set unattainably high standards for the average person.
For those seeking to improve their performance, procedures and treatments can help address issues like erectile dysfunction, libido, and stamina, though it’s essential to set realistic goals.
When Size Matters
Men interested in increasing their girth and length may explore options like penile fillers and vacuum pumps. Fillers can enhance girth but typically need to be repeated periodically. The procedure involves injecting filler into the penile tissue, which is generally safe when performed by a skilled provider.
Vacuum devices, such as the Kaplan (Whopper), can potentially contribute to lengthening and girth. Results vary, and again, setting realistic expectations is key. Manual pumps and traction devices can also offer modest benefits.
A multifaceted approach to sexual health, combining various treatments and lifestyle changes, can lead to better outcomes. For instance, using a vacuum pump might be complemented with regenerative therapies to enhance overall sexual function.
Female Sexual Health: A Growing Focus
While much attention is given to male sexual health, sexual wellness in women is equally important. Women face unique challenges, including vaginal dryness, pelvic floor issues, and post-pregnancy changes. These issues can be addressed with a range of treatments, including lasers for vaginal rejuvenation and hormonal therapies, but women need to feel more comfortable communicating their concerns.
Young women, in particular, are increasingly seeking information about their sexual health. Dr. Durst has observed a rise among younger women in what is considered “normal,” partly influenced by social media and cosmetic trends. While some may seek procedures like labiaplasty due to insecurities, many issues can be addressed with non-surgical treatments and education about normal anatomical variations.
For women experiencing painful intercourse, the cause is often minor and treatable without surgery. Dr. Durst encourages patients to consult with their gynecologists to rule out significant issues and explore non-invasive treatments if needed.
Again, educating patients, both men and women, about what is typical and providing reassurance can go a long way in improving a patient’s overall sexual health.