The following sexual health experts provide advice and information for ASHA's premium services: Debby Herbenick, PhD, MPH is an associate professor at Indiana University, the sexual health educator for The Kinsey Institute for Research in Sex, Gender, and Reproduction, and author of six books about sex and love. Her newest book is The Coregasm Workout. H. Hunter Handsfield, MD Dr. Handsfield is Professor Emeritus of Medicine, University of Washington Center for AIDS and STD, and former director of the Sexually Transmitted Diseases ... Continue Reading
ASHA in the News
ASHA works with a wide range of media outlets—TV, radio, print media, and popular web outlets—as a sought after commentator on news and trends in popular culture that touch on sexual health issues, promoting positive coverage that destigmatizes the subject. Below are examples of recent media coverage where ASHA has contributed expert opinion and commentary. Is a Chlamydia Vaccine on the Horizon? consumer.healthday.com FDA Approves Prescription Drug to Boost Libido in ... Continue Reading
ASHA Sextras
For more than 100 years ASHA has provided scientifically accurate information for Americans who knew they needed unbiased information. There was more information that people were seeking so ASHA SEXtras was born. Take a look at the articles written by nationally known experts. You'll find more information than you'll get anywhere else. Click on the Author's name for their bio. Sex & Pleasure Multiple Orgasms for Women and Men: What You Must Know [Herbenick] Seven Pieces of Advice for Young Women ... Continue Reading
Ask the Experts
If you are looking for an answer to your question on sexually transmitted infections (STIs) or reproductive and sexual health issues, ASHA has the answers. Our panel of experts—including physicians, nurse practitioners, and other professionals with experience across a range of medical and health specialties—will provide answers and insight a wide range of STI and sexual health topics. See all questions on: Sexual health Relationships Reproductive Health/Pregnancy STDs/STIs Herpes HPV HIV/AIDS If you would like to ask a ... Continue Reading
Books & More
ASHA offers high-quality patient education materials on a wide range of sexually transmitted infections(STIs). We are recognized by the public, patients, and providers for developing and delivering accurate, medically reliable information about sexually transmitted infections. Public and college health clinics across the United States order ASHA's educational pamphlets and books to give to clients and students. Community-based organizations depend on ASHA, too, to help communicate about risk, transmission, prevention, testing, and ... Continue Reading
CME/CE
ASHA develops continuing medical education programs with such partners as Medscape, Primary Care Education, and WebMD. Below you'll find current CME/CE modules produced by ASHA and partners. Some past programs are available on our HPV page. A 16-Year-Old Boy in the Clinic for a Sports Physical CME/CE Credit for Physicians and Nurses In collaboration with WebMD and The Yellow Umbrella Organization, ASHA has developed an activity, A 16-Year-Old Boy in the Clinic for a Sports Physical, for pediatricians, nurses, and primary care physicians. The ... Continue Reading
Dyspareunia—When Sex Hurts
Sex shouldn't hurt. But for too many women it does. Between 10% and 20% of women in the U.S. experience persistent pain during sex—a condition referred to as dyspareunia. Dyspareunia can have a significant impact beyond a woman's sex life. It can affect mental health, self esteem, body image, and relationships. What causes dyspareunia? There are two types of dyspareunia, classified as entry and deep. Entry dyspareunia refers to pain experienced with initial or attempted penetration of the vagina. Deep dyspareunia refers to is pain ... Continue Reading
Emotional Issues
Herpes may raise strong emotional issues, especially in the first few weeks or months after a diagnosis. Some people initially feel embarrassment, shame, anger, or depression. The good news is that these emotions tend to fade away over time. Some studies have shown that even six months can make a difference in adjusting to herpes. Why does such a common virus have the power to affect us? The major reason seems to be the fact that genital herpes is sexually transmitted. Growing up in our society, most of us come to view a sexually transmitted ... Continue Reading
Erectile Dysfunction
While erectile dysfunction (ED) is common, it’s also frequently misunderstood. Perhaps that’s because ED is a subject that is not often talked about—it can be awkward and embarrassing for both and men and women to discuss, even with a healthcare provider. But talking about it, and learning about it, can help men and their partners understand and manage this common condition. What ED is: The inability to maintain an erection suitable for intercourse. A medical condition that can affect men of any age. A common sexual problem that ... Continue Reading
For the Media
The issues are complex and not always easy to discuss but there is a strong need to ensure healthy dialogue on issues of sexuality, sexual health, and responsible sexual behaviors. While much attention is focused on adolescents and adverse outcomes of sexual activity, it’s also important to create opportunities for sex positive discussion that goes beyond adolescents and young adults. As journalists, you strive to provide the latest, most accurate information about sexual health to your readers, listeners, viewers and visitors. The American ... Continue Reading
Get Answers to Your Questions
Have questions? Need answers? Want to know what the experts have to say? Then try one of ASHA's three premium services to get expert advice and opinions. How likely is it that I’ll transmit herpes to my partner? I was diagnosed with HPV a few years ago but does that mean I’ll always have it? How do I talk to my partner? ASHA’s Ask the Experts service is your opportunity to post questions in our online forums that are answered directly by health professionals who specialize in STIs and sexual health. Looking for a ... Continue Reading
Health is Power
The Health Is Power toolkit is designed for organizations to better promote sexual health among young African American men (ages 18-30). The toolkit is designed mainly for heterosexual men, but also includes imagery and messaging that can be used with gay and bisexual men. The creative concepts and messaging used with Health is Power were developed through a number of activities including formative research (literature review, expert panel meeting, and research with the target audience). A national survey done with more than 500 African ... Continue Reading
Healthy Relationships
We have a lot of relationships in our lives: family members, neighbors, friends, romantic partners and more. Romantic relationships are an important part of that. They can bring us companionship and intimacy. But, while it’s important that dating partners care for each other, it’s just as important that you take care of yourself! In order to do this, we must be able to recognize when a relationship is healthy and when it is not. In a healthy relationship, both partners: Are treated with kindness and respect Are honest with each ... Continue Reading
Herpes
The Herpes Resource Center (HRC) focuses on increasing education, public awareness, and support to anyone concerned about herpes. Since its formation in 1979, the HRC has helped over five million people. The HRC is here for you! The HRC offers: Accurate and up-to-date information about herpes Source for referrals such as local support groups Voice to increase public awareness about herpes issues through the media Advocate for responsible national policies for STD treatment and prevention Understanding Herpes with H. Hunter ... Continue Reading
Herpes
Visit our Ask the Experts service to view more questions or to learn how to ask one of your own (there is no charge to browse and a $25 fee to post a question). I have had genital herpes since I was a teen-ager. I’m in my 30s now and pregnant with my first child; is my baby at risk? I’m terrified about giving my baby herpes! Is it possible for the herpes simplex 1 to turn into the herpes simplex II? Is it possible to test negative for both types and then test positive a few months later, even without an outbreak? What about having a ... Continue Reading
HIV Ambassador Program
Around 38,000 people will contract HIV each year and 1 in 7 of those will not know they have been infected. We decided there’s a need to have a focused group of people working to share important HIV prevention, testing, and treatment messages. We are so excited to announce the launch of the HIV Ambassador Program! Can I be an HIV Ambassador? Yes you can! Anyone who wants to promote accurate, science-based information about HIV and its prevention can be an Ambassador! How does it work? HIV related content from ASHA will be sent to you each ... Continue Reading
HPV & Relationships
HPV & Relationships The emotional toll of dealing with HPV is often as difficult as the medical aspects and can be more awkward to address. This may be the area where you feel most vulnerable, and the lack of clear counseling messages can make this even more stressful, especially where relationships are concerned. We regularly receive questions about what to tell either a current or future sex partner about HPV, for example. The better educated you are about HPV, the easier it is to give partners the information needed to answer common ... Continue Reading
HPV Myths & Facts
Unfortunately, there are many myths and misconceptions about genital HPV, and in some cases these can cause real harm. Bad information can cause a person to suffer terrible anxiety unnecessarily, to doubt a partner's faithfulness, or even to undergo painful and expensive treatment that could have been avoided. Most dangerous of all, misinformation may lead people to neglect a very simple procedure that saves lives. But why? One reality is that some aspects of the virus are still poorly understood, even by medical researchers. At the same ... Continue Reading
HPV Stories
People often benefit from hearing from others who have been in similar situations, and many people write to us as a way of sharing their experiences, getting their concerns or fears off their chest, or simply to let others know they are not alone. What follows is a small sample of the personal experiences people have shared with us in hopes of helping someone else. To share your story about being diagnosed, dealing with the emotional issues, telling a partner about herpes, or other comments, please send your email to mystory@ashastd.org. ... Continue Reading
HPV: Resources for Healthcare Providers
Why I Vaccinate: Maria Trent, MD, MPH, Associate Professor in Pediatrics at Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, advocates for creating an "HPV-free zone" through vaccination. Dr. Trent speaks to fellow healthcare providers about the importance of vaccinating adolescents against human papillomavirus (HPV). Cervical Cancer Screening Guidelines In 2018 updated cervical cancer screening guidelines were issued by the US Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF). The major change in the current recommendation is that the ... Continue Reading
Love Should Never Hurt
But sometimes it does. According to the National Intimate Partner and Sexual Violence Survey, more than 1 in 3 women and more than 1 in 4 men in the United States have experienced rape, physical violence, and/or stalking by an intimate partner in their lifetime.These statistics are even higher in the transgender community: 1 out of every 2 transgender individuals will experience rape, physical violence, and/or stalking in their lifetime. FBI statistics indicate that intimate partner violence resulted in 1,336 deaths in 2010—accounting for ... Continue Reading
Masturbation
Masturbation is a normal and a healthy form of sexual expression. In fact, over 88% of people say that they masturbate on a regular basis. So why don’t we talk about it? Masturbation has gotten a bad rap over the years. The truth is that you should never feel ashamed of talking about sexual pleasure, especially masturbation. It really is all about you! Not everyone has or wants a partner. There is no “right way” to have sex. As long as everyone is consenting, you should do it your way. The great thing about masturbation is that you are free ... Continue Reading
Orgasmic Disorder
Problems reaching orgasm are fairly common among women. About 3 out of 4 women say they can't orgasm through vaginal penetration alone. But there is a difference between an occasional issue and a more persistent problem—female orgasmic disorder, or FOD. What makes the problem rise to the level of FOD? There are specific criteria for diagnosing the disorder in women: A woman will rarely—or never—be able to reach orgasm, even when she is sexually aroused These symptoms last for six months or more The problem causes significant ... Continue Reading
Personal Stories
Do you have experiences relating to sexual health that you would be willing to share with others? Concerns? Triumphs? Challenges? Advice? We (and other visitors to our site) want to hear from you. Read the stories below to see what others are saying. You probably have insights that others would benefit from hearing, and we encourage you to share your story with us. ASHA sincerely appreciates all submissions and each is confidential and anonymous. It is ASHA's intent to collect these comments for use in our patient advocacy work. All ... Continue Reading
Position Statements
ASHA publishes Position Statements on emerging issues in health policy as part of its advocacy work. These statements are intended to reflect the perspective of Americans affected by sexually transmitted infections and outline the key reasoning and evidence behind ASHA's recommendations. ... Continue Reading
A Three-Part Conversation with Dr. Pepper Schwartz on Female Sexual Difficulties
Female sexual difficulties are more common than you think and impact couples inside and outside the bedroom. When sex isn’t easy how do you even begin this conversation with your partner or, for that matter, your healthcare provider? Sociologist, sexologist and relationship expert Dr. Pepper Schwartz joins our Sex+Health podcast for a three-part discussion on the range of female sexual difficulties and offers practical advice and resources for women (and their partners). You’re not alone! Episode One: How do female sexual difficulties (FSD) ... Continue Reading
ASHA Speaks Out on Female Sexual Dysfunction at the FDA
On October 27, the Food and Drug Administration conducted a patient-focused public meeting on female sexual dysfunction (FSD), with a special focus on female sexual interest/arousal disorder (FSIAD). The meeting included personal stories from patients on the impact of FSD on their lives and relationships as well as comments from advocates on the need for more treatment options. ASHA's VP of Health Policy, Deborah Arrindell, pictured at left, was among those at the meeting to offer comment and urge the FDA to provide more options for women ... Continue Reading
Baby Boomers Getting Older But Not Giving Up on Sex
This essay from Dr. Pepper Schwartz , featured in ASHA's newest book Creating a Sexually Healthy Nation, gives the scoop on Baby Boomers and navigating the sexual landscape as they age. Like other Baby Boomers, I have become exquisitely expert at denial. I am not sure how it came to pass that those of us born roughly during the period of 1945 to 1964 thought we might never have to age—but somehow we did. Even though we know, deep in our hearts, that Ponce de León never found that fountain of youth, there is a petulant part of us that ... Continue Reading
Celebrating Boomer Sexuality
By Walker Thornton [This article originally appeared on www.kinkly.com and is republished with permission] September is World Sexual Health month, a global initiative to draw attention to the issue of sexuality in a sex-positive way. The American Sexual Health Association is spearheading the American efforts with a particular focus on Boomer Sexuality. The World Association for Sexual Health (WAS) defines sexual health as: A state of physical, emotional, mental and social wellbeing in relation to sexuality; it is not merely the absence ... Continue Reading
Coming Soon! Get the Latest on the Health is Power Initiative
As rates of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) among racial and ethnic minorities continue to rise, local health departments and community-based organizations are continuously exploring effective methods of reaching these populations with sexual health messaging and education. Effective use of social media and social marketing techniques can increase dissemination and reach of health promotion messages targeting sexual and reproductive health (SRH) in underserved populations. One such population is African-American men. In 2016, ... Continue Reading
Could Your Sex Life Be Better?
A survey released today by the American Sexual Health Association, Men’s Health Network, HealthyWomen, and Pfizer looks at a curious disconnect: people believe that sexual health is important but are so shy about the topic they often avoid discussing it altogether. The survey—conducted by Kelton—was done with over 3,000 men and women in long-term relationships where at least one of the partners has a sexual health issue. 64% of participants said sexual health impacts their overall well-being, but only 13% of those unhappy with their sex ... Continue Reading
Dildos to the Dump!
I recently celebrated my 55th birthday. As time has gone by, I find myself enjoying my birthdays more now than when I was younger. I have none of that: “let’s pretend it’s not happening” feeling that many of my friends have. I love cake and presents and if nothing else, my birthday allows me to ask for and enjoy both. This year, my best present of all was my partner’s offer to help me clean out my home office. The big day came and we marched upstairs to grab the bull by the horns. I have an amazing capacity to work productively in the midst ... Continue Reading
DVAM 2019
We have a lot of relationships in our lives: family members, neighbors, friends, romantic partners and more. Romantic relationships are an important part of that. They can bring us companionship and intimacy. But, while it’s important that dating partners care for each other, it’s just as important that you take care of yourself! In order to do this, we must be able to recognize when a relationship is healthy and when it is not. In a healthy relationship, both partners: Are treated with kindness and respect Are honest with each ... Continue Reading
FDA Approves First Drug to Treat Low Sexual Desire in Women
The American Sexual Health Association strongly supports the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) decision to empower women and their healthcare providers by approving Flibanserin, the first drug to treat low sexual desire in females. Hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD, also known as low sexual desire) is the most commonly reported type of sexual dysfunction in women. Until today’s FDA decision there were no medical treatments available for the condition, leaving many women and medical professionals frustrated and puzzled at the lack of ... Continue Reading
Five Things You Should Know about Herpes
As most of my calls here at ASHA are about genital herpes, I thought I’d clear the air. TV shows, movies, and society as a whole create this stigma around herpes when really, there’s not too much to be scared of. Most of the time, genital herpes is a mild skin condition that can be managed very effectively. It is estimated that 1 out of 6 people have genital herpes. About 90% of them don’t know it. Herpes (oral & genital) cannot be spread through inanimate objects such as spoons, glasses, razors, towels, bed sheets, etc. Herpes can ... Continue Reading
Five Tips For Keeping The Sexy and The Passionate in Long Term Relationship
By Pamela Madsen Despite being a published sexuality expert who works with countless women and their partners, I'm always my own best case study. I have written and been public about many parts of my own sexuality. Most of my sexuality has occurred in a long term, mostly monogamous marriage of more than 30 years. I give lectures and have been interviewed on the lack of passionate sex in long term relationships (including my own), and what we can do about it. Last night, I realized that I do still have a pretty sexy marriage. That ... Continue Reading
Grassroots Hope
“They always say time changes things, but you actually have to change them yourself.” ― Andy Warhol, The Philosophy of Andy Warhol Danah Abarr needed answers about HPV. She figured others did, too. So she started an organization and a movement. It’s a familiar story: when Danah Abarr first searched for answers to her questions about HPV she was left frightened, puzzled, and poorly informed. Where to turn for help? Not wanting others to go through the same thing she founded HPV Hope, a non-profit that debunks myths and busts stigma ... Continue Reading
Honest Sex Education: Charting the Course to a Sexually Healthy Nation
Throughout the month of September, we will be posting a series of essays on sexual health topics in recognition of World Sexual Health Day. This essay on the sex education comes from Debra Hauser, MPH, President of Advocates for Youth and current vice chair of ASHA’s board of directors. It is featured in Creating a Sexually Healthy Nation, a volume of essays published in honor of ASHA's 100th anniversary. Every hour of every day in the United States 85 youth become pregnant, 425 contract an STI, and two contract HIV. Every hour of every day. ... Continue Reading
JAMA Viewpoint on Sexual Health in America
Experts say we can only meet sexual health challenges by shifting away from the current focus on diseases and moving towards a perspective that promotes health and wellness. In a Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) Viewpoint published online June 18, 2015, Sexual Health in America: Improving Patient Care and Public Health, former Surgeon General David Satcher, MD, PhD, former ASHA Board Chair Edward W. Hook III, MD, and current ASHA Board member Eli Coleman, PhD, say we can move towards solutions by embracing a comprehensive ... Continue Reading
January is Cervical Health Awareness Month
What is Cervical Health Awareness Month? The United States Congress designated January as Cervical Health Awareness Month. Nearly 13,000 women in the United States are diagnosed with cervical cancer each year, but the disease is preventable with vaccination and appropriate screening (Pap and HPV tests). During January, NCCC and its many local chapters across the country highlight issues related to cervical cancer, HPV disease and the importance of early detection. While NCCC chapters host events throughout the year, January is a month with ... Continue Reading
June is Men’s Health Month
Each year in June we put a special focus on the health needs of boys and men. Sexual health is important across the entire lifespan and involves more than just sex! Body image, relationships, understanding sexual anatomy (and keeping it healthy) are all a big part of a guy’s overall health. ASHA has an array of sexual health resources developed just for men at all stages of life. Health is Power The Health is Power toolkit is designed for organizations to better promote sexual health among young African American men (ages 18-30). The toolkit ... Continue Reading
March is Sexual Pleasure Month
It’s on! March is Sexual Pleasure Month and the focus is #PleasureIsHealthy! Pleasure has many benefits: sex helps you sleep better, reduces stress and increases happiness. Sex and orgasm actually release chemicals that our bodies love. We can experience the benefits of pleasure with or without a partner, too, so here’s a plug for masturbation as a normal, natural, healthy practice! There’s no one “right way” to have sex and we hope you’ll use some of our resources this month and beyond to explore the many approaches to pleasure and ... Continue Reading
Men’s Sexual Health: Beyond the Carnal Tango
There are many misconceptions around men, sex, sexuality, and just what men want from relationships. Guys are seen as always turned on, selfish in the bedroom, and not all that interested in their partner once the carnal tango ends. Is that fair? To find out we chatted with men’s sexual health expert Dr. Abraham Morgentaler, an associate clinical professor at Harvard Medical School, the director and founder of Men’s Health Boston, and a member of ASHA’s board of directors. He’s also the author of The Truth About Men and Sex: Intimate Secrets ... Continue Reading
Men’s Health Month
Each year in June we put a special focus on the health needs of boys and men. Sexual health is important across the entire lifespan and involves more than just sex! Body image, relationships, understanding sexual anatomy (and keeping it healthy) are all a big part of a guy’s overall health. ASHA has an array of sexual health resources developed just for men at all stages of life. Health is Power! The Health Is Power toolkit is designed for organizations to better promote sexual health among young African American men (ages 18-30). The ... Continue Reading
New National Sexual Health Survey Reveals Barriers to Addressing Issues
Why aren’t couples talking about sex? Despite increasing public acceptance of sex as an everyday topic and a trend towards more empowered health consumers, people continue to feel uncomfortable talking about sexual health issues—even behind closed doors. A new national survey from the American Sexual Health Association, in partnership with Men’s Health Network, HealthyWomen and Pfizer highlights the gap between people’s belief in the importance of sexual health and their avoidance of addressing related issues. Key Study Findings The ... Continue Reading
Podcast: Breathing New Life into Your Sexual Relationship
In this latest episode in ASHA's Sex+Health podcast, ASHA's Fred Wyand talks to Walker Thornton, M.Ed, about reigniting the spark your sex life and communicating about sexual pleasure. Thornton writes extensively about sexuality, sexual relationships, sexual health, and caregiving, with a special focus on sexual health and aging. ASHA's Sex+Health podcast is on iTunes. Subscribe today! ... Continue Reading
Seven Steps for Safe and Satisfying Sex
Whether you’re having sex or not, below are some tips to ensure every young adult can have a healthy, safe, and satisfying life – or to simply prepare yourself for when the time comes! 1. Get to know your sexual boundaries. Whether it’s through online research, talking about sex with friends, or experimenting with masturbation, find out what is and isn’t for you. Ask yourself: “Am I ready for sex?” “What kind of sex am I comfortable with?” “Do I want to ‘explore’ in college?” 2. Talk to your partner about consent and ways to ... Continue Reading
Sexual Rights for Seniors
Sexual Intimacy: A Human Right. That’s a bold statement. When I think of rights typically those of the civil/legal variety are what come to mind. A right to have sex, though? While it may not be enshrined in the Constitution, it does make sense that humans should be free to pursue what nature obviously intended us to do (and what the vast majority of us seem to enjoy doing). So that declaration might not seem so bold after all. But what if it’s printed in large font type as the opening salvo on a document, issued by a retirement home, to ... Continue Reading
Spotlight on Women’s Health
Each year in May we shine a spotlight on the unique health needs of girls and women. New policies and programs make quality healthcare accessible for millions and we want to make sure you take advantage of all that’s available. You deserve to be well cared for in mind and body! The resources on this page offer insight into different aspects of women's health, from cervical cancer prevention to STD screening to healthy relationships. The Office of Women's Health has additional resources available on steps you can take for better health, to ... Continue Reading
Survey Shows Condom Use Higher among Young People
Rates of condom use remained largely unchanged in recent years according to a report released today by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on data from the National Survey of Family Growth (NSFG), with higher usage reported among those ages 15-19. Using in-person interviews with males and females in the U.S. ages 15-44, the NSFG collects data on topics such as relationships, pregnancy, contraception use, and reproductive health. Key findings from the most recent study include: During 2011-2015, nearly 24% of men and 34% of ... Continue Reading