Medical dictionary

What is analysed? Sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG) is a glycoprotein synthesized by the liver that tightly binds to the sex hormones testosterone, estradiol and dihydrotestosterone. SHBG transports these in an inactive form through the bloodstream. The SHBG test measures SHBG levels in the blood. What does the result mean? The result indicates the concentration of SHBG in t

What is sex therapy? Sex therapy is a form of counselling that focusses on any problems you are having with your sex life. Sex therapy can be individual or couple-based, and a typical session lasts around an hour. Who is sex therapy suitable for? Sex therapists see adults of all ages with a range of issues, such as: pain during sex loss of libido (interest in sex) probl

What is sexual abuse? Any sexual activity without consent is considered sexual abuse. It can be between adults, by an adult to a minor (child sexual abuse) or even between minors. Sexual activity includes any type of penetration of genital organs, as well as the obligation on the part of the abuser to touch the genital organs. Sexual activity also includes any action that incites the minor t

What is it?   A sexual dysfunction or disorder is a difficulty in normal sexual activity.   This can be: A decrease or loss of libido or sex drive Difficulty in performing sexual intercourse, due to vaginismus, dyspareunia or erectile dysfunction  Orgasm disorders, such as premature ejaculation, persistent delays or absence of orgasm   Se

What is sexual health?   Sexual health is too often seen in negative terms, and usually focuses on unplanned pregnancies, sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and abusive or violent relationships. Sexual health is about enjoying safe, happy sex and feeling good about the experiences without regretting anything. This includes being sensible in using contraception to prevent unwanted pr

What are sexually transmitted infections (STIs)? Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are a set of infectious diseases that are transmitted from one person to another through sexual contact (vaginally, anally or orally). There are numerous types of STIs, including: Chlamydia Gonorrhoea Genital herpes HIV Genital warts HPV (human papillomavirus) Syphilis Trichomoniasis Pu

  What is sexual medicine? Sexual medicine is a medical specialty that deals with sexual health. Sexual health is defined by the World Health Organisation as “a state of physical, emotional, mental and social well-being in relation to sexuality”. This includes not only the absence of disease or sexual dysfunction, but “a positive and respectful approach to sexuality

What is shingles?Shingles is a viral infection that causes a tender and painful rash which most commonly presents either on the right or the left-hand side of the torso. You can also get shingles on your face, eyes and genitals. Shingles is not life-threatening, but it can cause a lot of pain and discomfort.What are the symptoms of shingles?The first signs of shingles are usual

What is shockwave therapy? Shockwaves are high-powered sound waves that can be used to treat injured or painful tissues. Correctly applied, they have a therapeutic effect. Such treatments are primarily used for the treatment of conditions within orthopaedic and rehabilitative medicine.   What does shockwave therapy treat? Although shockwaves have multiple therapeutic benefits,