ASK THE DOCTOR What’s the difference between medical grade silicone and FDA body approved silicone? I understand the confusion. Medical grade silicone and FDA body-approved silicone are the same things, so the terms can be used interchangeably. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approves all materials that are used for medical purposes. Medical grade silicone, …
Many people are uncomfortable with the idea of anal sex. And with age, anal sex may seem even more taboo. But if you’re curious about lovemaking a derriere—no matter how old you or your partner are—or hope to reduce any discomfort or pain you experienced or caused during previous anal sex experiences, this primer should …
ASK THE DOCTOR What do you think about Osphena? Should post menopausal women take it even if they are not sexually active? Gracias I have to admit that I was not aware of this drug. It was approved by the FDA in 2013 for the treatment of pain with intercourse in menopausal women. What is …
ASK the DOCTOR “My wife and I enjoy sex toys, after menopause her vaginal wall is very thin. Most vibrators are harsh on penetration and rubbing the vagina is discomforting. We use lube obviously, is there any kinder sex toys we could play with.” If your wife is not already using topical vaginal estrogen cream, …
Let’s talk about sex: It’s a hot topic on television, in movies, and online. In addition to all the other steamy details, we want to know who’s having it and how often. When it comes to women and men in or above their 50s, talking about sex has never been more important—and can be the …
ASK the DOCTOR “Dr. Bates, I enjoy reading your articles. At my age, I need all the help can get! I’m curious about the supposed new Viagra for Women (Addyi). I read your article & many of the recent news reports since its FDA approval. They say it works like many serotonin anti-depressants… In my …
ASK the DOCTOR “Dr. Bates, I read the article about your personal experience of impotence… What does a penile implant entail? Will my partner know I have one? How much does it cost? Is it covered by insurance?” It is a same-day surgical procedure that requires a small incision in the scrotum. One should plan …
The PSA blood test is currently the best available screening test for prostate cancer. But PSA testing is very controversial. Should you get tested? That depends on your risk factors for prostate cancer and how you and your doctor feel about PSA testing. Read on to learn more about your options. Prostate Cancer Basics The …
Typically, sexual dysfunction—defined as a problem occurring during any phase of the sexual response cycle that prevents an individual or couple from experiencing satisfaction from the sexual activity—is recognized and advertised as a men’s issue. While men can experience erectile dysfunction and ejaculation problems, women experience sexual dysfunctions by way of vaginal dryness, pain during …
Feeling less than energetic in the bedroom (or anywhere else, for that matter) is no fun. As we age, low sex drive can affect men and women for a number of reasons. In fact, one study found that 31 percent of men and 43 percent of women suffer from some form of sexual inadequacy at …
THE DOCTOR “About six months ago, my husband, 56, started taking medication to control his cholesterol. Can this have an effect on his sexual performance? He asked his doctor, but his only response was ‘sometimes’. This is the only medication my husband is taking, and it seems to have decreased his interest in sex. Thank …
ASK the DOCTOR “I am a 60 yrs old man. It seems the only way that I can get an erection is with anal stimulation. Should I be concerned or is this normal for a Man of My age? I do drink, smoke, and take blood pressure medication. I do wake with an erection upon …
ASK THE DOCTOR “If Viagra for men causes increased blood flow to the penis, can it help a woman in the same way to her clitoris? Aren’t they the same type of skin and nerve endings to make it more “pleasure sensing”?” Good question that gets some media attention. Yes, the type of skin and …
