Health library · Ages 18 and over

Men's and Women's Sexual Health: the body in Chinese and Western medicine

Sexual function is a health matter. This library explains how the body works, why things go wrong, what you can improve yourself through exercise and lifestyle, and when it is time to see a doctor.

Updated November 14, 2026Compiled by UK MASTER ACADEMY26 articles

Healthy sexual function rests on four foundations: blood vessels, nerves, hormones and the mind, together with the pelvic floor muscles.
Chinese medicine assigns sexual function mainly to the Kidney, with the Liver, the Heart and the Spleen taking part.
Every article in this library cites international medical research that can be looked up on PubMed.
This library offers health education only. It does not diagnose and does not replace a visit to a doctor.

Foundations

How the body works in Western medicine, how Chinese medicine sees it, and where the two systems meet.

Western medicine physiologyFour response phases: vascular, neural, hormonal, and pelvic floor roles. Chinese medicine physiologyKidney stores essence, tian gui, Liver governs qi flow, Heart and Kidney communicate. Comparing both medicinesComparison table, points of overlap, and areas where the two systems do not align.

Men

Common conditions in men, what causes them and what helps.

Erectile dysfunctionBlood vessels, nerves, and psychology all contribute; start with lifestyle changes. Premature ejaculationISSM definition, two types, psychology, and evidence-based behavioral techniques. Male low libidoLow testosterone requires testing; many other causes must be ruled out first. ProstateBPH, chronic prostatitis, pelvic pain: the role of the pelvic floor and when to get screened.

Women

Common conditions in women through each stage of life.

Low libido in womenResponsive desire is normal; low desire is only a disorder when it causes lasting distress. Vaginal dryness and painful sexVaginal dryness and pain during sex have many treatable causes; the key is not to suffer in silence. Difficulty reaching orgasmOrgasm difficulty usually means insufficient stimulation in the right context, not a bodily defect. Postpartum physiologyPostpartum physiology changes markedly in hormones and pelvic floor; recovery pace varies by person. Perimenopause and menopauseMenopause is a natural process; its symptoms are manageable with appropriate medical support.

Exercises

Exercises backed by research, with diagrams and a pacing timer right on the page.

Kegel for menLocate pelvic floor muscles, train with the rhythm timer, follow the 12-week plan. Kegel for womenLocate pelvic floor muscles, train with the rhythm timer, follow the 12-week plan. Pelvic floor releaseDiaphragmatic breathing and poses to release chronically tight pelvic floor muscles. Cardio and strengthAerobic exercise at sufficient intensity improves blood circulation and sexual function. Breathing and relaxationSlow breathing activates the parasympathetic system, creating the conditions for sexual response. Stop and StartRecognize arousal levels, stop on time, and progress from solo to partner practice. Sensate focus for couplesSensate focus helps couples reduce performance anxiety and rebuild physical connection.

Lifestyle

How sleep, food, alcohol, tobacco and stress affect sexual function.

Sleep and Sexual HealthGetting enough sleep protects testosterone, desire, and erectile function. Diet and Sexual HealthThe Mediterranean diet and healthy weight support sexual function. Alcohol and TobaccoSmoking raises erectile dysfunction risk; quitting brings rapid improvement. Stress and MedicationsChronic stress and some medications reduce sexual function.

Support

When to see a doctor, common questions and a glossary.

When to see a doctorIdentify emergency signs, early-warning signs, and find the right specialist. Frequently asked questionsAnswers on sexual physiology, common conditions, exercises, and when to see a doctor. Sexual health glossaryDefinitions of Western and Chinese medicine terms used in the sexual health article cluster.

This page is general health information compiled from international medical sources. It has not been reviewed by a physician and is not a diagnosis or a treatment instruction. The content is for readers aged 18 and over. If symptoms persist, please see a doctor.