Letters to the Editor-in-Chief

Q1. I am a single mother with one child having been divorced for several years and I feel well in myself. Is it possible to develop health problems from not having sex?

Reply:
In one word, no. Some people often think that sexual intercourse (for men and women) is essential for healthy living. While it is good to have sex with someone you love and respect, sex is not essential to life. You said that you feel well in yourself, why not stay that way instead of having sex just for the sake of it. Abstinence from sex does not cause any medical problem.

Q2. My boyfriend and I have been in a relationship for about five years. However over the past few months, he has suffered from pre-mature ejaculation. We have used Viagra but this has not been of much help. What can we do?

Reply:
Premature ejaculation is one of a group of conditions known as "erectile dysfunction." They have various causes and for each particular person a detailed history, physical examination and tests will help to find out the most likely origin of the situation. It may be necessary for you and your partner to see a psychosexual counselor. Ask at your local family planning clinic or Genito-urinary medicine department for your nearest psychosexual counselor. As you have discovered yourself, the use of Viagra may not be indicated for your partner.

Q3. My boyfriend and I have had a great relationship during the past seven years. Despite this, I have never experienced an orgasm. This matter is frustrating my boyfriend and we have visited a gynaecologist without much help. Is there something wrong with me?

Reply. There is nothing wrong with you. Many women do not experience orgasm and they lead normal healthy lives. In your letter, you said that you have a great relationship with your boyfriend, so keep it that way. Comparing yourself with your friends who experience orgasms makes you think that something is wrong and this is affecting you and your partner! Relax and enjoy each other's company as you have done before.

Q4. About five years ago I had an unprotected sexual intercourse with a casual female partner. The following day after the sex, I felt unwell and saw a doctor who gave me some antibiotics. However over the years I have experienced generalised body aches and pains, poor appetite, dizzy spells and lack of energy. I have visited Genito-urinary medicine clinics on three separate occasions and all the tests have been reported "clear". Can you help please?

Reply: The symptoms you experienced the following day after your casual sex were probably too soon to be caused by an infection. If you got an infection, the antibiotics you were given would have helped. Also, you have been screened on three separate occasions for sexually transmitted infections including HIV and all have been reported "clear." What you need is a proper general and psychological health check by your GP. You can safely rule out a sexually transmitted infection.

and finally...

Quarterly Quote ...

“ Have you noticed that all the people in favour
of birth control are already born?”
Benny Hill

©2004 Sexual Health Matters. Published Quarterly by Express Print Works, Middlesbrough, UK
ISSN 1469-7556
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