KKH launches Singapore's first sexual health guidelines for women of reproductive age
The SingHealth Duke-NUS Maternal and Child Health Research Institute (MCHRI), led by KK Women's and Children's Hospital (KKH), launched Singapore's first-ever Guidelines on Sexual Health for Women of Reproductive Age on March 28.
These guidelines aim to address the burden of sexual health issues faced by women aged 21 to 45.
Speaking at the MCHRI Asia Pacific Maternal and Child Health Conference and Integrated Platform for Research in Advancing Metabolic Health Outcomes of Women and Children (IPRAMHO) International Meeting 2025 at KKH, Ms Rahayu Mahzam, Minister of State for Health and Digital Development and Information, shared that the recommendations will guide screening, assessment, education and optimisation strategies across all stages of reproductive health.
The guidelines consider the diverse needs of women who are trying to conceive, pregnant, postpartum, and those with chronic illnesses, a history of abuse or mental health challenges.
These new guidelines will be disseminated to healthcare professionals through 10 of KKH's partners, including the College of Family Physicians, College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists Singapore, and the Health Promotion Board.
Healthcare professionals whom women might consult regarding sexual health include gynaecologists, general practitioners, and nurses.
This release marks the first step toward normalising open communication about sexual health between healthcare professionals and patients, creating an environment where women feel comfortable raising their concerns.
"Sexual health during the reproductive years is crucial to a woman's well-being across her lifespan," said Dr Tan Tse Yeun, senior consultant at the Department of Reproductive Medicine at KKH and co-chairperson of the Guidelines.
"It influences overall health, shapes reproductive choices, and lays the foundation for health outcomes in later life stages."
A 2024 KKH study involving 787 women aged 21 to 45 found that 94 per cent of respondents agreed that awareness and education on female sexual health issues are important.
However, only 43 per cent of these women would seek medical help if they experienced such issues.
Another study of 477 healthcare professionals who treat women of reproductive age found that 81 per cent were unaware of available screening tools.
"Our two recent studies reveal a paradox in women's sexual health," said Dr Jean-Jasmin Lee, consultant at the Family Medicine Service at KKH and co-chairperson of the Guidelines.
"Despite recognising its importance, Asian women - even those who are highly educated professionals and mothers - remain hesitant to seek help and often don't know where to turn, expecting healthcare professionals to initiate discussions."
More information on the guidelines can be found at www.for.sg/sexual-health-guidelines.