'Common body clues’ that indicate potential sexual and reproductive health concerns and what you can do about them.

1. Unexplained fatigue and low energy

Chronic fatigue can signal hormonal imbalances, iron deficiency, or thyroid problems.

What to do: If you’re always exhausted, book a blood test to check your iron levels, thyroid function, and hormone balance.

2. Changes in libido (sex drive)

A sudden drop in sex drive may indicate testosterone deficiency in men, estrogen imbalances in women, or underlying health conditions like diabetes.

What to do: If your sex drive has drastically changed, talk to a doctor or endocrinologist to check hormone levels and rule out other medical conditions.

3. Irregular or painful menstrual cycles

A healthy menstrual cycle is a key indicator of reproductive health. Irregular, painful, or extremely heavy periods may point to conditions like Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) or endometriosis. Women should track their cycles and seek a gynaecologist if irregularities persist for more than three months.

What to do: Track your cycle and consult a gynaecologist if you notice changes lasting more than three months.

4. Erectile Dysfunction (ED) in men

ED may not just be a performance issue; it could reflect heart health problems or diabetes.

What to do: Men experiencing persistent ED should see a urologist or cardiologist to assess heart health and hormonal levels.

5. Skin problems and acne breakouts

Your skin can reflect hormonal imbalances linked to sexual and reproductive health. Common signs include:

Adult acne in women: May indicate PCOS (caused by excess androgens)
Pale or dull skin: Could signal anaemia due to heavy periods
Dry, thinning skin in men: May be linked to low testosterone levels

What to do: If you notice persistent acne, hair thinning, or unusual skin changes, consider seeing a dermatologist or endocrinologist for hormonal testing.

6. Pain during sex

Sex should never be painful. If you experience discomfort, it may be due to:

Vaginal dryness, often caused by low estrogen (common after childbirth or during menopause)
Endometriosis or fibroids, which lead to deep pelvic pain

What to do: Women experiencing pain during sex should see a gynaecologist for a pelvic exam and ultrasound to rule out serious conditions.

7. Unexpected weight changes

Sudden weight gain or loss, especially when paired with reproductive symptoms, may indicate:

PCOS in women causes insulin resistance and weight gain
Low testosterone in men leads to muscle loss and increased belly fat
Thyroid disorders which affect metabolism and energy levels

Unexplained weight fluctuations should prompt a visit to a doctor for hormone and metabolic testing.

8. Frequent urination or unusual discomfort

If you’re constantly going to the bathroom or experiencing pain, it might signal:

Urinary tract infections (UTIs: More common in women but can affect men too
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs): Chlamydia and gonorrhoea can cause burning sensations
Prostate issues in men, such as an enlarged prostate (benign prostatic hyperplasia)

If you experience frequent urination, burning, or pelvic discomfort, see a doctor for STI screening or a prostate check-up.

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Unlocking your health: vital signs of sexual and reproductive well-being you can't overlook