When Sex Causes Pain

Meet Anisa Varesteh, AWARE sexologist, registered mental health practitioner and director of Relate Sexology. Anisa provides evidence-based interventions to help clients with a range of challenges related to sexuality and relationships, such as mismatched desire, overcoming shame, painful sex, sexual or gender identity, unfulfilling sex life and unwanted sexual behaviors, to name a few.

In 2021, Anisa created a pre-recorded course to address the underlying factors of painful sex. This course is designed for women who experience pain during intercourse. 

Over the past couple of years, the course has received an overwhelming response from clients and has proven to be immensely successful in addressing intimacy issues in women experiencing pelvic pain, and Anisa would like to extend support to a wider audience.

For a limited time, AWARE patients may access this course for just $1. This offer is available until September 15th, 2023.

The course may be accessed here:

Osteoporosis Forum September 7th

As part of Women’s Health Week, our own Dr Jane Elliott will be speaking at the Osteoporosis Forum on September 7th. Osteoporosis imposes a huge health burden as we age. Come and learn how to prevent and treat osteoporosis.

What to Expect:

- Gain valuable knowledge about osteoporosis and its impact on women's health.

- Discover effective prevention strategies and management techniques.

- Learn about the latest advancements in women's health from leading experts.

- Connect with like-minded individuals and community organisations.

Don't miss this empowering opportunity to prioritise your health and well-being.

AWARE Women's Health Snapshot: Vulvovaginal Thrush!

AWARE WOMEN’S HEALTH SNAPSHOT:

VULVOVAGINAL THRUSH- AAAGGGGHHHH!

Such a common problem but rarely discussed! Here are some useful facts.

“Uncomplicated Thrush”:

• “Thrush” is an infection caused by the Candida organism. It’s worth knowing that Candida can be present in some women without causing an infection or any symptoms at all.
• When there is an infection, Candida causes inflammation of the vulva and vagina resulting in discharge, itch or burning. Ouch!
• Thrush is easily diagnosed by having a vaginal swab taken.
• 75% of women will experience a thrush infection sometime in their lives.
• Infection usually responds quickly to “over-the-counter” treatments available at pharmacies but sometimes treatment will need to be repeated.
• Oral treatments and vaginal treatments are equally effective.

“Complicated Thrush”:

• 10-20% of women have symptoms which are severe, do not go away after treatment, or keep coming back. This is the time to visit the doctor!
• Some health conditions make women more prone to getting thrush- for instance diabetes or pregnancy.
• Recurrent episodes are treated with prescription treatments and longer courses of treatment, except during pregnancy.

When it’s NOT Thrush it could be:

• Eczema or allergic dermatitis, most often from soaps or hair removal products
• Contact dermatitis, from sanitary or continence pads
• Skin conditions such as lichen sclerosus

AWARE Women’s Health  www.awarewomenshealth.com.au