A growing body of research is shedding light on long-held misunderstandings about female sexual health, debunking myths from urinary tract infections (UTIs) and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) to challenges surrounding menopause. These findings, many led by hospitals and research institutions in Asia, highlight the critical need for education and open discourse—issues that are especially relevant in Thailand, where taboos around sex education and women’s health persist.
In a recent 2024 study by Singapore’s KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital (KKH), over half of participating women aged 21–45 admitted they could not identify symptoms of common female sexual health conditions, despite acknowledging the importance of awareness and education. Alarmingly, only 43% said they would seek medical help if they encountered such issues. Compounding the problem, a parallel survey of healthcare professionals treating women of reproductive age found that more than 8 out of 10 lacked awareness of screening tools, and only around 1 in 10 felt confident diagnosing or managing female sexual health complaints (CNA Lifestyle).
This research matters for Thai readers because, despite improvements to sexual education in schools since the 1990s, a 2019 UNICEF review concluded that cultural taboos continue to hinder comprehensive discussions about sexual health in Thailand. Teachers often lack resources or confidence, leading to gaps in students’ understanding of vital issues—from STIs and reproductive health to consent and emotional well-being (Unicef Thailand).
The KKH research is particularly notable for addressing seven pervasive myths—and the facts that explode them:
First, the myth that only sexually active women need gynecological care is firmly debunked. Specialists note that women should see gynecologists throughout life, regardless of sexual activity, for concerns ranging from period issues and ovarian cysts to menopause management. As emphasized by a senior consultant at a leading reproductive medicine department, “Gynaecological care is important throughout a woman’s life journey…whether a woman is sexually active or not, these health needs remain relevant” (CNA Lifestyle).
Second, it is a myth that women can catch UTIs or yeast infections from toilet seats. Doctors clarify that UTIs typically arise from bacteria in the digestive tract entering the urinary tract, while yeast infections result from overgrowth of naturally present fungi, often influenced by antibiotics, hormones, or uncontrolled diabetes. Sexual activity, particularly after intercourse, can trigger UTIs—but toilet seats are not to blame.
Third, no one should assume all STIs present clear symptoms. “In early stages, STIs like chlamydia, gonorrhoea, trichomoniasis, genital herpes, HPV, syphilis and HIV may not produce noticeable symptoms,” according to a reproductive health expert. Even without symptoms, infections can lead to abnormal bleeding, pelvic pain, and ultimately infertility if untreated.
Crucially, experts remind us that STIs don’t affect “just” sexual health. Syphilis may cause brain and heart complications; gonorrhea can lead to blindness or joint disease; chlamydia can impact both fertility and infants’ health if untreated in pregnant women. A senior consultant in obstetrics and gynecology notes, “Some STIs may even have long-term implications, making early detection and treatment crucial.”
Another frequent misconception is that women’s sexual problems are solely psychological—“all in your head.” In reality, female sexual dysfunction often involves biological, psychological, and sociocultural factors, including chronic medical conditions, hormonal shifts, surgical history, and cultural influences. Pain during intercourse, for example, can stem from pelvic floor issues or underlying health problems.
The myth that one must simply “live with” mismatched libidos in couples is also dismissed. Experts recommend medical evaluations to rule out physical, mental, and medication-related causes, while treatments can involve counseling or, for perimenopausal women, hormone therapy to alleviate symptoms and improve well-being.
Lastly, the belief that sex loses all pleasure after menopause is refuted. While menopause can cause vaginal dryness and reduced libido, interventions like vaginal estrogen (in creams or pessaries) may improve comfort, sensation, and desire. Specialists encourage couples to focus on overall intimacy rather than only orgasms or penetration, suggesting that satisfactory sexual relationships can continue well into later life (CNA Lifestyle).
These findings resonate in a Thai context, where surveys demonstrate that sexual health misconceptions remain common. Health authorities, like the UNFPA and Thai Ministry of Public Health, are working to promote comprehensive sex education in alignment with global best practices, but obstacles include cultural discomfort, patchy implementation, and insufficient professional training (UNFPA Thailand).
Medical and educational experts are beginning to stress the importance of direct and accurate communication. In a 2021 study of midlife Singaporean women, researchers found that both cultural attitudes and personal health challenges contributed to sexual inactivity and dysfunction—not unlike what is observed in Thailand (PubMed). At the same time, initiatives like Singapore’s newly launched Guidelines on Sexual Health for Women of Reproductive Age provide a template for what could be achieved elsewhere in the region. These guidelines include tools like the Female Sexual Function Index-6, helping doctors systematically assess and address sexual concerns.
Thai law and policy have supported sexuality education since at least 1938, but effective implementation remains a mixed picture. While secondary schools across the nation teach the basics of reproduction and STIs, local educators are calling for more support in discussing sexuality beyond “biology,” including relationship skills, consent, and gender sensitivity (education-profiles.org).
Beyond policy, Thai society contends with stigmas rooted in religious and familial expectations. Some women feel embarrassment discussing sexual health, even with medical professionals, fearing judgment or misunderstanding. This underlines a broader need for societal change, as well as targeted health campaigns to normalize conversations about female sexual well-being.
Looking ahead, experts in the region predict greater openness and more accessible care as social norms evolve and younger generations demand scientifically accurate, stigma-free health information. The push for up-to-date training for healthcare providers—and for curricula that address sexual health in both physical and psychosocial dimensions—is seen as essential for closing knowledge gaps and reducing health inequities.
For Thai readers, the message is clear: Sexual health concerns are not shameful or “taboo,” nor are they confined to those who are sexually active. Routine checkups with a gynecologist or primary care doctor are important at every life stage. If you experience symptoms such as abnormal bleeding, pain during intercourse, changes in libido, or repeated vaginal discomfort, consulting a healthcare professional—rather than relying on internet myths or waiting for clarity—is strongly recommended.
To support female sexual health, individuals can:
- Seek regular gynecological checkups regardless of sexual activity status
- Maintain open conversations with medical professionals about sexual, menstrual, and menopausal concerns
- Stay informed about symptoms of STIs and seek screening when in doubt, even if asymptomatic
- Communicate openly with partners about needs and expectations, and consider counseling when disagreements or discomfort arise
- Advocate for more comprehensive sexuality education in Thai schools and workplaces
Taking these steps will help normalize these vital conversations, support women’s health across the lifespan, and push back against outdated myths that continue to undermine well-being and relationships in Thailand and beyond.
Sources used:
- “Can you get a urinary tract or yeast infection from the toilet? We asked doctors to debunk women’s health myths” (CNA Lifestyle, July 2025)
- UNICEF Thailand: Review of Comprehensive Sexuality Education
- Education-Profiles.org: Sexuality Education in Thailand
- UNFPA Thailand: Sexual & Reproductive Health
- PubMed: Sexual inactivity and dysfunction study in Singaporean women