Viagra, known generically as sildenafil, is a widely recognized medication for treating erectile dysfunction (ED). Since its approval in the late 1990s, it has helped millions of men regain confidence and intimacy in their relationships. Designed to improve blood flow to the penis, Viagra can enhance a man's ability to achieve and maintain an erection when sexually aroused. This article explores how Viagra works, who it’s for, and what to expect when using it. Whether you’re considering it for the first time or simply curious about its effects, understanding the benefits, potential side effects, and precautions can help you make informed decisions about this well-known treatment.

Menopause is individual to every woman, and treatment should be tailored to her individual symptoms and concerns as she goes through the change in hormones from her late 40s onwards. Every woman goes through it, but everyone experiences different symptoms and to varying degrees of severity. Previously women would book an appointment with their doctor to discuss symptoms and treatment options. Still, some women have researched and already think that Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) is right for them.

The combined oral contraceptive pill (COCP) is a type of contraception for women. It is sometimes referred to as just the pill. It contains two hormones, estrogen and progestin. These hormones closely resemble the estrogen and progesterone hormones produced by a woman’s ovaries. There are lots of different COCPs available. Just a few examples include Loestrin, Yasmin, Sprintec, Seasonique, Ortho Tri-Cyclen, and Microgestin. The amount and type of estrogen and progestin hormones differ between the brands. COCPs are either monophasic (all the pills in the pack contain the same amount of hormones) or multiphasic (different pills in the pack contain differing amounts of hormones). Some are taken for 21 days, followed by a seven-day break. Others are taken daily and hold inactive (dummy) pills at the end of the pack.

Clotrimazole is an antifungal medication and is used to treat common fungal infections like the organisms that cause vaginal thrush. Vaginal tablets are a way to treat the local area affected by inserting them directly into the vagina. Mycelex and Gyne-Lotrimin are branded versions of clotrimazole. Clotrimazole is available over the counter. Combination packs with clotrimazole cream are also available.

Emergency contraception is given to those who have had unprotected sex, are not taking regular contraception, and want to avoid pregnancy. It’s commonly known as the "morning-after pill", but this isn’t accurate, as it's available for up to 5 days after any unprotected sex. But the sooner it’s taken, the more effectively it prevents pregnancy. It’s important to emphasize that this is not an abortion or the termination of an embryo or fetus. The pill delays the release of a woman's egg, and the coil creates a hostile environment for sperm to fuse with a woman’s egg. It prevents a pregnancy rather than ending pregnancy. Your local sexual health clinic is best for all types of emergency contraception, but tablets are available on prescription from your doctor, the emergency department, and some pharmacies.

A cesarean section, also known as a C-section, is an operation where your baby is delivered through a cut in your tummy and womb. It’s a major operation, so is only carried out when necessary and safe for you and your baby by your specialist doctor (obstetrician). About 1 in 3 babies in the US are delivered in this way.

A hysterectomy is a surgical procedure undertaken to remove a woman’s uterus. There are many reasons why people get hysterectomies, and it is a common procedure. Once the uterus is removed, a woman will no longer have periods and will not be able to get pregnant.

The progestin-only pill (POP) is a type of contraception. It contains a progesterone hormone. The hormone closely resembles the progesterone hormone produced by a woman’s ovaries. POPs contain norethindrone (Errin, Nora-BE, Ortho Micronor). The POP is also referred to as the mini pill.