Questions about sex and health

Reader questions about sex, relationships, and health answered by experts: case analyses, anatomy, potency, contraception.

Почему молодые поддерживают проверку возраста для порно, но противятся всем способам её введения?

Editorial

Answer

An Australian study found that about 60% of young people aged 15 to 29 do support the concept of mandatory age verification. However, their main concerns relate to privacy and data security – they don't want to provide scans of passports or other personal data to dubious websites. They also doubt the effectiveness of technical measures, believing they can be circumvented, and worry that blocking could negatively affect sexual development. Instead of strict measures, they more often propose comp...

Почему запрет секс-услуг не уменьшает их количество, а только делает опаснее?

Editorial

Answer

Исследования показывают, что криминализация не сокращает масштабы секс-индустрии, а лишь ухудшает условия для работников. В подполье им сложнее отказать клиенту или обратиться за помощью, что повышает риск насилия. Также затрудняется доступ к презервативам и медицинским проверкам, из-за чего быстрее распространяются инфекции. Таким образом, запрет, задуманный как защита, на деле увеличивает риски для здоровья и безопасности.

After childbirth, the feeling that the vagina has become wider — is it really treated with surgery?

Editorial

Answer

Yes, weakening of the pelvic floor muscles is a real condition called vaginal laxity syndrome. A study compared two surgical approaches: the classic one (strengthening one wall) and a more comprehensive one (along the entire length of the vagina). The second method showed significantly better improvement in sexual function and muscle tone. However, remember that surgery is a last resort. First, it is worth trying pelvic floor muscle training and other non-surgical methods. The final decision is...

Is it true that plastic water bottles can affect my potency and sperm quality?

Editorial

Answer

Yes, this is a real concern. Phthalates, which make plastic flexible, can interfere with the hormonal system. Studies show that men who frequently come into contact with phthalates are more likely to have sperm problems, including reduced quality, motility, and count, and there is also a link to erectile dysfunction. However, these data are based on studies in cells and animals, and are not always confirmed in humans. If you notice issues with intimate health or conception, it is worth discussi...

After antidepressants I lost my desire, and it hasn't returned. Is this even normal? I feel like doctors aren't listening to me.

Editorial

Answer

Yes, you are not alone: in the UK, ten people with similar experiences were surveyed, and this condition is called Post-SSRI Sexual Dysfunction (PSSD). Participants reported that doctors often dismissed them with phrases like 'it'll pass' or 'it's all in your head,' making them feel rejected. Importantly, PSSD is a recognized medical fact, not a fantasy, and doctors are increasingly acknowledging this. If your doctor isn't listening, it's worth seeking a specialist who takes it seriously, and p...

Why is it so hard for teenagers to buy condoms even after the pandemic, and what can be done about it?

Editorial

Answer

Even after the pandemic, difficulties in accessing condoms and contraception for teenagers remain high: before COVID-19, 29-30% experienced challenges, while after, it's 37-38%. This is not only due to clinic disruptions but also fear of judgment, not knowing where to turn, and closed school health offices. It's important to simply talk to teenagers, explain that seeing a doctor and buying protective measures is normal, and support programs that make these services more accessible. If there are...

My partner doesn't move much — can this really affect my problem with premature ejaculation?

Editorial

Answer

Yes, according to a study involving more than 1,300 people, low physical activity in women is directly associated with an almost threefold increased risk of premature ejaculation in men. Specialists believe that the problem often lies in the general lifestyle and psychological climate of the couple, so it is important to consider it as a shared issue. It is recommended to discuss the situation and start moving more together — for example, by going on joint walks or jogs.

After I told about the violence, I felt worse, even though I was supported. Is that normal?

Editorial

Answer

Yes, this is absolutely normal. When you have lived with a secret for a long time, you are used to tension, and telling does not lift the burden immediately, but gradually. At first, you become more vulnerable and dependent on others' opinions, and the conversation itself is emotional labor that wears you out. So even with perfect support, there's still a residue—you gave a lot of energy, and now you need time to recover. Listen to yourself: if after the conversation you feel warmth and safety,...

После насилия тело не слушается, и даже с любимым партнёром близость пугает. Как вернуть контроль над телом и снова научиться получать удовольствие?

Editorial

Answer

It is important to acknowledge that full control over the body is a myth, and that is normal. You can control the choice of partner, the decision to have sex, the pace and types of caresses, and the word 'stop.' Start by exploring yourself alone: unhurried masturbation, a safe environment with an anchor (music, scent) can help you understand your reactions. With a partner, move gradually—from hugging to more—having agreed in advance on a pause signal for dissociation. Your body is not broken; i...

I've noticed that my boss is acting too friendly with me, giving gifts, and insisting that we don't make our conversations public. Could this be grooming if we're both adults?

Editorial

Answer

Yes, grooming doesn't only happen to children but also in relationships where one person has power over another, for example, a boss over a subordinate. If he insists on keeping the relationship secret, gives expensive gifts for no reason, asks you not to tell anyone, and wants to spend time alone, these are warning signs. Grooming is a slow process of blurring boundaries and creating a false sense of care to make it easier for you to comply. So trust your intuition: if you feel uncomfortable, ...