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

Sexual and reproductive health isn’t just about fertility it’s a window into your overall well-being. From energy levels and skin changes to libido and mood swings, your body constantly sends signals that can reveal deeper health issues. 

Recent studies have shown that reproductive health problems, such as irregular menstrual cycles in women or erectile dysfunction in men, are linked to serious conditions like heart disease and stroke. 

Men with erectile dysfunction, for example, have a 59% increased risk of coronary heart disease and a 34% higher risk of stroke. 

Dr Michael Mol, a well-known South African healthspan physician, believes that understanding these signs early can lead to better overall health outcomes. 

"Your reproductive health is a reflection of your body’s internal balance. Paying attention to subtle shifts can help with early detection of underlying health issues," he explains. 

 '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.

• Heart disease: Poor blood circulation can cause both ED and cardiovascular problems  
• Diabetes: High blood sugar damages blood vessels, affecting sexual function  
• Hormonal imbalances: Low testosterone can impact libido and erections  

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. 

How to take control of your sexual and reproductive health

Here’s how to stay proactive:  

• Get regular check-ups - Women should have annual Pap smears; men over 40 should check their prostate regularly.  
• Track your symptoms - Use a health journal or app to notice patterns in your cycle, libido, and energy levels.  
• Practice safe sex - Regular STI screenings and HPV vaccinations protect long-term reproductive health.  
• Maintain a balanced lifestyle -  A healthy diet, regular exercise, and stress management improve hormonal balance and sexual health.  

Your body constantly sends signals listening to them can prevent serious health issues. If something feels off, don’t ignore it speak to a healthcare professional and take charge of your health today.