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 the “GP+” services we offer at DTAP Clinic 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.
Common STDs in Singapore
Also known as a sexually transmitted infection (STI), an STD refers to any infection that is passed from one person to another through sexual intercourse, including oral sex. Based on the Department of Sexually Transmitted Infections Control (Singapore) the most commonly seen STDs in Singapore are as follows:
#1 Chlamydia
Chlamydia is very often asymptomatic. However, some patients may notice clear discharge from their genitalia, itchiness or a burning sensation when passing urine. In cases of anal infection with chlamydia, someone may have the sensation of needing to pass motion shortly after they have already done so, or painful bowel movements.
# 2 Gonorrhoea
Common symptoms of gonorrhoea include yellow or green discharge or pain when passing urine. In cases where the infection is in the throat, the patient may experience a sore throat or notice a white substance in his or her throat. In cases of anal infection, the patient may notice discharge, pain when passing motion or the sensation of needing to pass motion shortly after they have already done so.
#3 Syphilis
Syphilis, which is an STD is caused by a bacterial infection, is unfortunately making a comeback globally. Symptoms of syphilis vary depending on the stage of the condition. The infection usually first presents with a single, often painless, ulcer that can be easily missed. However, if it’s not diagnosed and treated, the infection will move on to the secondary stage, even if the ulcer has healed. Skin rashes can develop on any part of the body, but most often appears on the palms and soles of the feet. The third stage, which can occur years after the infection was first acquired, can affect the brain and other vital organs. Luckily, it’s rare these days for the condition to progress to the third stage.
Additionally, it’s important for women who are planning to get pregnant or are pregnant to get screened for syphilis, as it can be passed to an unborn foetus and can result in devastating consequences for the newborn.
#4 Genital warts
This STD is caused by certain types of the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) and is highly contagious through skin-to-skin contact or sexual contact. Genital warts commonly present as small cauliflower-like bumps that can develop into one single lump or into a cluster of bumps.
There are HPV vaccinations available to protect you from certain strains of HPV. It’s definitely something worth speaking to your doctor about!
#5 Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV)
Herpes is a commonly used term to describe an infection caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). In cases of herpes infection, the patient may notice multiple blisters either around the genital area or the mouth or lips. These blisters are usually painful. Additionally, some patients may notice a tingling sensation prior to noticing the blisters. The blisters may also occur in other parts of the body such as the buttocks.
Currently, there is no medication available to cure herpes once you have been infected. However, there are effective treatments that can help reduce the symptoms. In some cases, an individual’s immune system may be able to suppress the virus very effectively, getting rid of the virus permanently.
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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