Sexual health is a sensitive area of medicine, but it’s crucial to overall health. Here DR WEI JIE TAN tells us more about the importance of keeping on top of sexual health issues including sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), infertility, relationship issues, and more.
Tell us about the “GP+” services offered at DTAP Clinics
The best way to describe our “GP+” services is that they extend beyond those offered by regular GPs. We like to think of these services as bridging the gap between GP and specialist care. Some of our focus areas are men’s health and women’s health including sexual health, weight management and mental health.
Why is maintaining sexual health an important aspect of overall wellbeing?
Sexual health plays an important role in our day-to-day life from the perspective of overall physical health as well as mental wellbeing. A healthy sexual life can contribute to a positive self-image and self-esteem, which in turn will help to build healthy relationships between partners.
Regular screening and STD testing is important to detect and treat early especially when these infections are detected early and treated as soon as possible. This is important as untreated STDs can potentially lead to complications such as certain cancers and issues with fertility. Individuals, especially those planning to start a family, should ensure good sexual health as it will allow for safer pregnancies and healthier outcomes for both parents and children.
What are some common sexual health issues that both men and women face?
Both men and women can experience various sexual health issues, some of which are gender specific, while others affect both sexes.
Those faced by men include erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation, low libido and prostate problems such as benign prostate hypertrophy (BPH), prostatitis and prostate cancer. On the other hand, the issues faced by women include low libido or hypoactive sexual desire disorder, painful intercourse, vaginal infections, pelvic floor disorders such as pelvic organ prolapse, menstrual and hormone issues such as polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) and endometriosis. Sexual health issues faced by both sexes include STDs, infertility, sexual performance anxiety and relationship issues.
These sexual health issues require different courses of treatments as their management must be tailored specifically based on the needs of each individual.
What specific sexual health services does DTAP Clinic provide?
DTAP Clinic provides a wide range of sexual health services. These include screening and treatment for STIs, fertility tests for both sexes, and premarital screening. We also offer treatment and investigation for different causes of sexual dysfunction such as painful intercourse in females, and erectile dysfunction and premature ejaculation in males.
How does the clinic ensure a comfortable and confidential environment for patients seeking these services?
Here in DTAP Clinic, we’re fully aware that people seeking sexual health services may be anxious, scared or even embarrassed. So, we’re dedicated to providing a safe space for our patients to share their most confidential information with us. Our clinics are thoughtfully designed to provide a comfortable and relaxing environment. We ensure the appointments are adequately spaced apart so that patients don’t feel rushed during the consultation. Additionally, our staff are experienced, well trained and equipped to deal with issues relating to your sexual wellbeing.
If you’re looking to do a sexual health screen or are facing issues with your sexual health, book in for a consultation with DTAP Clinic. We’re here to help.
About the doctor
Dr Tan is a doctor at DTAP Clinic @ Orchard. You’ll also find clinics at Novena, Holland Village, Robertson and Kovan. dtapclinic.com
This article first appeared in the October 2024 edition of Expat Living. You can purchase the latest issue or subscribe, so you never miss a copy!
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