Sexual Health

Sexual health is an important part of your overall well-being, affecting your physical health, emotional wellness, relationships, and quality of life. Whether you have concerns about painful intercourse, changes in sexual function, low libido, vaginal dryness, or sexually transmitted infections (STIs), personalized care can help you feel your best. At Lamorinda Women’s Health in Lafayette, California, board-certified gynecologist Karine Hajyan, DO, FACOG, provides compassionate, confidential sexual health care tailored to your individual needs and goals. Call the office today or schedule an appointment online to learn more.

What is sexual health?

Sexual health encompasses physical, emotional, mental, and social well-being related to sexuality. It goes beyond the absence of disease and includes feeling comfortable, safe, and satisfied with your sexual health and intimate relationships.

Many factors can influence sexual health throughout life, including hormonal changes, medical conditions, stress, medications, pregnancy, childbirth, and menopause.

When should I seek medical help for sexual health concerns?

It's important to discuss any changes or concerns affecting your sexual well-being. You may benefit from an evaluation if you experience:

• Pain during intercourse
• Vaginal dryness or discomfort
• Low sexual desire or changes in libido
• Difficulty with arousal or orgasm
• Abnormal vaginal discharge or irritation
• Concerns about sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
• Bleeding during or after intercourse
• Pelvic pain affecting intimacy
• Changes related to pregnancy, postpartum recovery, or menopause

At Lamorinda Women’s Health, Dr. Hajyan provides a supportive, judgment-free environment where you can openly discuss sensitive concerns and receive personalized recommendations.

What can affect sexual health?

Many factors can contribute to sexual health concerns. Common causes include:

• Hormonal changes related to perimenopause or menopause
• Vaginal dryness or genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM)
• Stress, anxiety, or depression
• Certain medications
• Pelvic floor dysfunction
• Endometriosis or other gynecologic conditions
• Chronic medical conditions, such as diabetes or thyroid disorders
• Pregnancy and postpartum changes
• Relationship concerns
• Sexually transmitted infections (STIs)

Because sexual health is complex, identifying contributing factors is an important part of developing an effective treatment plan.

How are sexual health concerns evaluated?

Your evaluation begins with a thorough discussion about your symptoms, medical history, medications, lifestyle, and overall health. Dr. Hajyan takes time to understand your concerns and how they may be affecting your daily life and relationships.

Depending on your symptoms, she may perform a pelvic examination and recommend diagnostic testing, such as laboratory studies or imaging, to identify underlying causes.

What treatments are available for sexual health concerns?

Treatment depends on the underlying cause of your symptoms and your personal goals. Dr. Hajyan develops individualized treatment plans that may include:

• Lifestyle modifications
• Hormonal therapy, when appropriate
• Treatment for underlying gynecologic conditions
• Vaginal moisturizers or lubricants
• Pelvic floor therapy referrals
• STI testing and treatment
• Medication adjustments or recommendations
• Education and counseling regarding sexual wellness
• Sola pelvic therapy
• Sildenafil Cream (O-mazing Arousal Cream)

If you have questions or concerns about your sexual health, don't hesitate to seek care. Contact Lamorinda Women’s Health by phone or online to schedule a confidential consultation.