Latest news with #sexualhealth
News24
6 days ago
- Health
- News24
6 rules to maintain safe sex this winter
Safe sex education is often assumed to be reserved for teens and young adults. Young women already know everything they need to know about their bodies, sexual health and reproduction, right? The reality, however, is very different. 'You'd be surprised at how little knowledge women have about their sexual health,' says Pamela Makhetha, a health practitioner who works at a sexual health clinic in Johannesburg. 'I deal with women, daily, who don't fully understand that they have the right to make decisions that affect their sexual health. It is probably one of the last social taboos; nobody is talking about it but everybody who is sexually active is affected by it,' she says. Let's all agree on one thing: the person who is responsible for your sexual health, is you. READ MORE | From fake orgasms to anal - women and men share their sex dealbreakers Couples counsellor Sizakele Zondi says, 'Women often give up power when it comes to their sexuality and health. I want every woman to understand that you cannot trust anyone with your sexual health, even if he's your husband and a man of God. So you must always think of yourself and your well-being first, and make decisions based on that.' The rules To help you make the best decisions for your sexual health, we compiled basic safe sex rules to observe: 1. Insist on mandatory testing Mandatory means that it's not negotiable, even when you've been dating for a while, and he doesn't want to use condoms anymore. It's not enough for your partner, however lovely he or she is, to assure you their sexual health is in order. Get tested together, so your relationship is transparent and you both get information from a professional. Make sure the tests include screening for STIs. 'The operative word is 'before' you engage in unprotected sex. The moment you succumb to passion or pressure and have unprotected sex with someone you haven't tested with, you've definitely put your health at risk,' Makhetha says. 2. Take a stand on pregnancy Falling pregnant 'by mistake' is one of society's most common life mistakes. Young people, in particular, often believe 'it won't happen to me'. The good news is that it doesn't have to. 'Falling pregnant and keeping the baby is one of the biggest decisions you'll make in your life. So, make sure it's a decision and not a fate that's thrust on you by poor decision-making,' Makhetha warns. 'If you don't want to be pregnant, make sure you've made a plan for that. Whether that means using condoms every single time or being on contraception and having sex with a partner you've tested with, you have to make a decision. 'I often deal with women that have unplanned pregnancies and surprise STIs at the same time. It is stressful and completely unnecessary, and you have the power to avoid that,' she adds. Keep in mind that the pull-out method is not a smart plan for staying on the right side of your goals; it's a roll of the dice and if it really worked, at least a third of the population wouldn't exist. 3. Own your reproductive health If you are having sex, a visit to a gynaecologist needs to be a priority. 'Sexual health isn't just about the actual act of sex, it's also about making sure you are in good health,' Makhetha says. Annual gynae visits can help detect cancer, inflammation and infection of your reproductive organs — some conditions and complications are not easy to detect. 'Your doctor will do a pap smear but also help you with any other complications or conditions you might have,' Makhetha adds. If anything feels 'off' down there, get an expert to check it out – the sooner, the better. 4. Don't add any extras It's not uncommon for women to swap sexual tips on pleasing their partners. That's not a bad thing, in itself, but sometimes some of the advice is just plain dodgy. 'Do not put things into your vagina in an effort to better please your partner,' Makhetha advises. 'Women put things like snuff, tree bark, herbs and other weird objects into their vaginas, all in an effort to be 'mnandi'. Your vagina already has everything it needs to make sex pleasurable. No amount of eating cinnamon and yoghurt is going to change how you feel to your partner. So stop trying so hard. 'If he complains, there is a big chance that he's the problem, and you need to move on to a partner who'll appreciate you,' she says. 5. Be mentally and emotionally ready As much as sex is seen as a physical act, there are many other aspects at play in our sexual relationships. 'When you have sex that you are not ready for, you make a decision against yourself, because you're trying to please someone else. I strongly advise against it. 'Your feelings around your sexual relationships are important and, again, the onus is on you to make sure you are taken care of. That can lead to uncomfortable conversations, but that's better than compromising yourself. Sex is meant to be pleasurable. And that state includes your mind, body and soul, so always ensure that you don't take that part of your health for granted,' Zondi says. 6. Screen your lovers No one has the right to tell you how to pick your lovers. The responsibility is yours alone and it is one you have to take seriously. 'The person you choose to have sexual interactions with has to be picked with a lot of consideration. These are people you are vulnerable with and should your contraception fail, that's someone who might be in your life for good,' Zondi says. She concludes: 'Lovers can also wreak havoc with your self-esteem, so make sure you choose partners that affirm who you are, and not those who cause harm. I often tell my clients that being fussy is good when it comes to this. 'If you are choosing decent partners, sex will be healthy for your mental health but when you choose the wrong ones, the damage to your mental and emotional state can be very harmful.'
Associated Press
16-07-2025
- Business
- Associated Press
Silver Scott Health, Inc Announces the Launch of Peachhim.com - A Bold New Platform for Women's Sexual Health and Wellness
FRANKLIN, NEW JERSEY / ACCESS Newswire / July 16, 2025 / Silver Scott Health, Inc. a wholly owned subsidiary of Silver Scott Mines, Inc. (OTC PINK:SILS), an innovative healthtech and blockchain development company, proudly announces the launch of - a comprehensive digital platform dedicated to supporting the sexual health, intimacy, and overall wellness of women. Accessible now, offers a science-backed, stigma-free space designed to empower women with the tools, education, and support they need to take control of their sexual health journeys. From personalized hormone testing to curated supplement plans, educational resources, and professional consultations, addresses the full spectrum of women's sexual health and intimacy concerns - topics long underserved in both traditional and digital healthcare markets. ' is more than a website - it's a movement,' said Stuart Fine, CEO of Silver Scott Mines and Silver Scott Health. 'We believe that women deserve a safe, informed, and shame-free space to talk about their bodies, their needs, and their desires. is a vital step toward closing the gender gap in sexual wellness. All the information and advice will come from female leaders and experts' will feature: Silver Scott Mines, through its strategic development arm, continues to identify and support digital wellness platforms with strong social and market relevance. Following the success of recent ventures, the company sees as a powerful extension of its health-forward portfolio. To learn more, visit About Silver Scott Health Silver Scott Health, Inc. Is a division of Silver Scott Mines, Inc. (OTC Pink:SILS). The Company's mission is to create affordable healthcare options across the spectrums of care for Americans. The Company looks to fill in the gaps that large companies deem unprofitable and unworthy of attention. The company is redeveloping and has plans for additional healthcare launches this year. About Silver Scott Mines, Inc. Silver Scott Mines, Inc. is a diversified development company focused on the growth and management of innovative ventures in digital health, wellness, technology, and sustainability. By identifying underserved markets and investing in solutions that matter, Silver Scott Mines is building a portfolio of forward-thinking, impact-driven companies. Forward Looking Statements This press release includes forward-looking statements within the meaning of the safe harbor provisions of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements are not historical facts and involve risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expected and projected. Words such as expects, believes, anticipates, intends, estimates, seeks and variations and similar words and expressions are intended to identify such forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements with respect to revenues, earnings, performance, strategies, prospects and other aspects of the businesses of Silver Scott Mines are based on current expectations that are subject to risks and uncertainties. Contact: Stuart Fine 908-356-9852SOURCE: Silver Scott Mines Inc. press release
Sky News
16-07-2025
- Business
- Sky News
Reproductive health benefits start-up Fertifa swoops on rival Juniper
A reproductive health start-up run by one of Britain's most prominent venture capitalists has swooped on one of its peers amid growing demand from large companies for the provision of fertility and other sexual health-related benefits to their workforces. Sky News understands that Fertifa, which is run by Eileen Burbidge, one of Britain's most prominent venture capitalists, has agreed a deal to buy Juniper, a two year-old London-based company which provides reproductive health insurance. Sources said the deal - worth an undisclosed sum - would be announced publicly on Thursday. It will provide fresh evidence of the accelerating consolidation of an area of healthcare which has gained increasing prominence as part of companies' employee benefits packages in recent years. Fertifa counts Meta - the owner of Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp - among its clients, along with other blue-chip businesses such as the private equity firm Hg Capital, H&M, Lululemon, MoFo, Space NK and Virgin Group. The start-up raised £5m in funding from investors including Notion Capital, Triple Point Ventures and Speedinvest two years ago, following an initial pre-seed round led by Passion Capital. Fertifa is the exclusive provider of the insurer Aviva UK's family planning and fertility benefit for many of its healthcare schemes. The start-up's offering is based on a per-employee, per-month pricing model, and offers reimbursement administration by charging a 5% fee on transaction volumes. It has also broadened its services in recent years by adding men's health, neurodiversity support and a payment plan allowing employees to avoid up-front costs. Juniper, which was founded by Ambra Zhang and Max Bacon, was set up to address a gap in the private medical insurance (PMI) market by focusing on reproductive health coverage. It also raised funding from external investors, including Insuretech Gateway and 2100. The rapid growth of private fertility service providers has given rise to greater scrutiny of their practices, with the collapse of Apricity, one prominent company in the sector, at the end of last year leaving some IVF patients thousands of pounds out of pocket and asking questions about the unregulated nature of the industry. At the time, a statement from the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA) said it could "only regulate UK licensed fertility clinics, which are the premises where treatments take place". "The decision to cease trading was taken by Apricity's board," it added. "The HFEA is unable to help patients obtain a refund nor compensation. "Patients can also contact the licenced clinic where any procedures, such as egg collection, were due to take place. "We would expect Apricity to ensure that any eggs, sperm or embryos stored in the UK are looked after." One market source said that Fertifa's acquisition of Juniper would strengthen its position as an emerging leader in the sector. Other corporate deals in the industry have included Nasdaq-listed Progyny's purchase of Apryl, a Verlin-based fertility benefits platform, in June 2024.
Medscape
14-07-2025
- Health
- Medscape
Are You Asking These Seven Sexual Health Questions?
At the 2025 Argentine Society of Infectious Diseases (SADI) Congress held June 12-14 in Mar del Plata, Argentina, updated guidelines for the diagnosis and treatment of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) were presented. The chapter, developed by the HIV and STI Commission on a comprehensive approach to sexual health, offers step-by-step recommendations for taking a sexual history, designed for both specialist and primary care clinicians. Romina Mauas, MD, one of the chapter's authors, is an outpatient physician at Hospital de Infecciosas F.J. Muñiz and a researcher at the Center for Studies for the Prevention and Control of Communicable Diseases at ISALUD University, Buenos Aires, Argentina. 'This content is entirely new. This highlights the key questions that should never be missed when taking a medical history. It also promotes an inclusive, respectful environment free from stigma, prejudice, or moral judgment while protecting privacy, confidentiality, and individual rights,' she said. The chapter was co-authored with José Barletta, MD; Franco Bova, MD; Iael Altclas, MD; Adriana Basombrío, MD; Luciana Spadaccini, MD; Mara Huberman, MD; and Sergio Maulen, MD, PhD, all of whom are medical professionals. 'This material hasn't been available before, isn't covered in other guidelines, and can benefit any healthcare professional in the region,' said Alejandra Cuello, speaking with Medscape Spanish. She was one of the two coordinators of the recommendations. Cuello heads the Infectious Diseases Service at the Juan D. Perón Regional Polyclinic and was an adjunct professor of infectious diseases at the National University of Villa Mercedes, both in Villa Mercedes, Argentina. The new guide included 21 chapters covering a wide range of topics, including urethritis, acquired syphilis, genital herpes, human papillomavirus, viral hepatitis, gonorrhea, Zika virus, sexual abuse and rape, STIs in pregnant women, and emerging STIs, such as mpox. 'Instead of just copying the international guidelines, this version includes local epidemiology, available diagnostic methods, and treatments tailored to the regional context,' Cuello said. Patient Interaction A unique feature of the updated guidelines is that they begin with recommendations on how to explore aspects of a patient's sexuality during consultations, an area often avoided due to 'lack of knowledge, modesty, or discomfort,' Cuello noted. Mauas, speaking to Medscape Spanish said, 'We need to be warm because we are asking intimate questions. You cannot rush into conversations about sexual practices without creating a comfortable environment. She emphasized that a lack of empathy is often the first barrier to timely and appropriate care. These guidelines highlighted the importance of the first interaction in building trust and obtaining the patient's accurate sexual history. Clinicians are encouraged to pay attention to initial greetings, maintain appropriate eye contact, and use supportive body language. 'Consultations should begin with open-ended questions. Clinicians are advised to first explore general concerns and then gradually move into more sensitive topics. Each question should be explained clearly using simple and respectful language. The approach should accommodate explicit sexual terms when necessary and be responsive to signs of anxiety or distress,' she said. Core Components The guidelines outlined seven key areas to consider in sexual health consultations. Reason for consultation. Begin by understanding the reason for the patient's visit. Review any signs or symptoms to help guide the examination and diagnostic tests. History of STIs. Inquiring about a patient's history of STIs is important, as this can affect the current risk assessment, choice of diagnostic tests, and interpretation of results. 'Some people are aware of this; others are not because the infection may have been asymptomatic,' Mauas noted. Assess personal and partner(s) risk perception, including prior testing for HIV, viral hepatitis, and other STIs. Ask whether the patient has received postexposure prophylaxis for HIV, especially in the past 6-12 months. Sexual partners. Determine the time since the patient's last sexual contact. When possible, estimate the number of regular and casual partners in the past 3 months or during the 3-month period. Avoid making assumptions about a person's sexual orientation; instead, ask respectfully. 'What is your sexual desire? Do you like being with a woman or a man? What is your orientation? How do you perceive or define yourself?' Mauas explained. Sexual practices. Gather information about the sites of potential exposure and specific practices, including oral, vaginal (receptive/insertive), and anal (receptive/insertive). Also ask about group sex, transactional sex (in exchange for money, drugs, or services), use of sex toys, dating apps, and recreational drug use — including alcohol and sex-related substances. 'These are individual situations that need to be considered,' Mauas emphasized. STI protection. Ask about the frequency of condom use during vaginal or anal intercourse over the past 3 months. Discuss any barriers to condom use. In addition, the vaccination status for hepatitis A, hepatitis B, and human papillomavirus must be assessed. Pregnancy prevention. Discuss pregnancy planning, contraceptive use, and access to safe abortion services when relevant. If necessary, refer to the appropriate specialized health departments. 'Although it depends on the specialty, we can — and should — work together with the sexual and reproductive or nonreproductive health department, depending on what the patient wants, such as whether they need counseling on contraception,' Mauas said. Other sexual health issues. Screening for problems related to sexual satisfaction, function, or psychosexual concerns. Ask about experiences of gender-based violence and offer appropriate referrals to the relevant services. These guidelines also encourage clinicians to leave room for patients to raise additional personalized concerns. Practical Recommendations The guide outlines general recommendations for consultations with key populations and priority groups at a higher risk of STIs, including transgender people, sex workers, men who have sex with men, adolescents and young adults, incarcerated individuals, people who use drugs, and migrant populations. The guide offered several recommendations to improve consultations, as follows. Avoid making assumptions about sexual orientation. Ask open, respectful questions about sexual practices, such as the gender of sexual partners, relationship status, and whether the patient is monogamous. Ask about self-identified gender at the beginning of the consultation to avoid mistakes or assumptions regarding sex or gender based on appearance. Gender-neutral languages should be used wherever possible. Ask questions such as, 'Are you taking any medication?' instead of 'Are you on any medication?' Genital examination should be delayed unless clinically necessary. This can be postponed until a greater level of trust is established. Recognize that not all individuals are sexually active or wish to initiate sexual practices. Offer flexible services to accommodate different needs. For example, evening clinic hours may better serve those with nighttime work schedules. Training the entire healthcare team to promote, inclusive stigma-free care is essential. 'Anyone who chooses to work in sexual health must be properly trained — not only in clinical knowledge but also in addressing personal biases that may come from cultural or religious beliefs. Primary care providers should familiarize themselves with these guidelines and build their capacity to manage consultations. If they are unable to complete the assessment, they should be referred appropriately; however, they must not become a barrier to care. When a patient feels mistreated due to administrative or bureaucratic hurdles, they often choose not to return,' Mauas said. Mauas and Cuello reported having no relevant financial relationship. This story was translated from Medscape's Spanish edition.
Sustainability Times
13-07-2025
- Health
- Sustainability Times
'Prostate Cancer Risk Slashed!': Scientists Declare Frequent Ejaculation the Most Powerful Prevention Tool for Men in Breakthrough Health Discovery
IN A NUTSHELL 🔍 Researchers explore the link between ejaculation frequency and reduced prostate cancer risk, with mixed findings from various studies. and reduced risk, with mixed findings from various studies. 📊 A significant study from the Harvard School of Public Health indicates that at least 21 ejaculations per month may lower cancer risk by 22%. ⚖️ Contrasting research suggests that while moderate sexual activity has protective effects, excessive frequency might not offer additional benefits. 🛑 Experts caution against formal recommendations, emphasizing proven preventive measures like a healthy diet and regular exercise. In recent years, the intricate connection between male sexual health and overall well-being has captured the attention of the scientific community. Among various lifestyle factors, researchers are now exploring the potential role of ejaculation frequency in reducing the risk of prostate cancer. This interest stems from the notion that regular sexual activity might contribute to the prevention of this prevalent disease. While the topic remains a point of contention among experts, it continues to provoke curiosity and debate within the medical field. This article delves into the existing research, weighing both the promising findings and the cautionary notes from the scientific community. The Science Behind Sexual Activity and Prostate Health Prostate cancer stands as the most common cancer among men in many parts of the world, including the United States, accounting for a significant portion of male cancer diagnoses annually. While factors such as age, family history, and ethnicity are well-established risk aspects, they are unfortunately unchangeable. Consequently, researchers have long been interested in identifying modifiable behaviors that could influence the development of this disease. One such behavior is the frequency of ejaculation. The hypothesis, dating back over fifty years, suggests that regular ejaculation might reduce the buildup of potentially harmful substances in the prostate. Known as the 'prostatic congestion theory,' this idea has gained traction through large-scale studies. A notable study from the Harvard School of Public Health followed over 31,000 men for nearly two decades. It found that men who reported at least 21 ejaculations per month between the ages of 40 and 49 experienced a 22% reduced risk of prostate cancer compared to those with fewer than eight ejaculations a month. This reduction was particularly observed in less aggressive forms of the disease. « This brewing habit could silently hurt you »: these common coffee preparation methods directly linked to increased heart disease risk Debating the Correlation Between Ejaculation Frequency and Prostate Cancer Despite the optimistic results from American studies, other research provides a more nuanced view. A meta-analysis conducted in China, published in the Journal of Sexual Medicine, reviewed data from 22 studies involving over 55,000 men. It concluded that while moderate ejaculation frequency—around two to four times per week—was associated with reduced cancer risk, exceeding this threshold did not provide further protection and might even reverse benefits in some cases. Several explanations are proposed for these findings. High-frequency ejaculation could indicate increased hormonal activity, such as elevated testosterone levels, which may stimulate prostate cell proliferation. Additionally, men with numerous sexual partners might face a higher risk of sexually transmitted infections, potentially leading to chronic inflammation in the genital area. Social and behavioral factors, including diet and medication use, also vary among individuals, complicating analysis. Discover the Top Nutrient-Rich Foods that Can Assist in Your Weight Loss Journey Another significant limitation is the reliance on self-reported data, introducing potential inaccuracies. The slow progression of prostate cancer, often diagnosed decades after exposure to risk factors, further complicates data interpretation. Researchers note that even with extended follow-up, observed effects remain modest, primarily affecting early-stage cancer forms. Why Experts Urge Caution Despite Encouraging Data Currently, no medical authority explicitly recommends increasing ejaculation frequency as a preventive measure. The European Association of Urology, for instance, emphasizes proven benefits of balanced nutrition, regular exercise, and maintaining a healthy weight. These factors hold stronger evidence for reducing prostate cancer risk. 'Your Breath Is a Signature': Scientists Reveal Human Breath Is as Unique and Traceable as a Fingerprint However, this does not mean that sexuality should be disregarded. Regular sexual activity, when part of a consensual and infection-free relationship, has no known detrimental effects on the prostate. It might even contribute to hormonal and immune balance, though mechanisms require further confirmation. The Harvard study highlights potential roles for oxytocin and endorphins released during orgasm, known to modulate inflammation and boost immune response. While there is a discernible link between ejaculation frequency and prostate cancer risk, the correlation remains too tenuous for formal recommendations. Caution is therefore advised. Current data may reassure concerned patients, affirming that an active and fulfilling sexual life is not detrimental and might promote overall health balance. Navigating the Future of Prostate Cancer Prevention As research continues to explore the connection between ejaculation frequency and prostate cancer, it invites a broader discussion on lifestyle choices and their impact on health. The potential protective effects of regular sexual activity introduce intriguing possibilities for future preventive strategies. However, it is crucial to approach these findings with a balanced perspective, recognizing the multifaceted nature of cancer risk factors. Individuals are encouraged to focus on established preventive measures, such as a healthy diet and regular physical activity, while remaining informed about emerging research. As science advances, will we uncover more definitive links between lifestyle choices and cancer prevention, or will this remain a complex puzzle requiring further exploration? This article is based on verified sources and supported by editorial technologies. Did you like it? 4.7/5 (22)
