Frequently asked questions

Sexual and hormonal wellbeing refers to how hormones influence energy, sleep, mood, cognition, physical vitality, and sexual health. Symptoms can vary widely and often overlap, particularly during life stages such as menopause or age-related hormonal change in men.

Yes, we provide care for sexual dysfunction and hormonal wellbeing, recognising that these often overlap — but do not always coexist.

No referral is required. However, we aim to complement GP care and can communicate with your GP where appropriate and with your consent.

Yes. All consultations are confidential and conducted in a respectful, professional medical setting.

No. We provide focused assessment and management within our scope and work alongside your GP for ongoing care.

Hormonal changes may contribute to:

• Fatigue or low energy
• Poor or disrupted sleep
• Brain fog or difficulty concentrating
• Mood changes or reduced resilience
• Reduced strength or exercise tolerance
• Changes in libido or sexual function

Not always. Some changes are part of normal ageing or life stages. The goal of assessment is to determine whether symptoms are within expected ranges or whether treatment may be helpful.

Yes. Hormones can influence cognition, memory, attention, and motivation in both men and women.

Perimenopause is the transition period before menopause when hormone levels fluctuate and symptoms may begin, even if periods are still occurring.

Symptoms may include hot flushes, night sweats, poor sleep, fatigue, brain fog, mood changes, joint aches, and changes in sexual desire or comfort.

These symptoms are common, but that does not mean they must be ignored. Assessment can help determine whether treatment may improve quality of life.

No. Libido changes vary widely. Some women experience reduced desire, while others notice no change or even improvement.

Pain during sex is common but not something women should simply accept. It can have several treatable causes.

Hormonal treatment may be discussed and prescribed where clinically appropriate. Decisions are individualised and based on symptoms, medical history, and current guidelines.

Androgen deficiency refers to low or insufficient testosterone that may contribute to physical, cognitive, and sexual symptoms.

Symptoms may include:

• Low energy or fatigue
• Reduced strength or muscle mass
• Poor recovery from exercise
• Brain fog or reduced focus
• Low libido
• Erectile changes

No. Erectile dysfunction can have multiple causes, including vascular, neurological, psychological, or medication-related factors.

No. Testosterone therapy is only considered when clinically indicated and after careful assessment.

ED refers to difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection sufficient for sexual activity.

No. ED can be an early sign of vascular, metabolic, or hormonal issues and may warrant medical assessment.

Assessment is recommended if ED is persistent, worsening, or associated with other health changes.

Medication will be discussed where appropriate, we will consider medication, hormonal, supplements and lifestyle options specific to your problems

PRP involves the use of platelet-rich plasma derived from your own blood. It is considered an adjunctive treatment for some men with ED.

Botox has been explored as an off-label treatment for erectile dysfunction in selected cases.

No. These treatments are not appropriate for all men and require prior clinical assessment.

Yes. All patients must undergo a nurse-led consultation before any procedure to assess suitability, explain risks, and obtain informed consent.

Yes. PRP and Botox for ED are considered off-label uses and are discussed carefully during consultation.

Procedures are performed by experienced doctors at selected SNIP clinic locations.

Nurse-led consultations allow for structured assessment, education, consent, and triage, ensuring safe and efficient care.

Yes. Nurses assess suitability and may recommend proceeding, deferring, or exploring alternative options. Nurses recommendations will be reviewed by one of our doctors, who will make the final decision on treatment and prescription.

Doctors review all nurse led consultations and provide medical review, advice, prescriptions and interventions.

The Nurse will review your symptoms, medical history, and goals, and discuss possible contributing factors.

Tests are recommended only when clinically appropriate.

Yes. Sleep, stress, physical activity, and general health are important components of assessment.

A number of treatments for sexual and hormonal wellbeing are “off Label” which means that that the treatment is not officially approved by medsafe. This is not uncommon in New Zealand. We will discuss with you the evidence available for any treatment as well as potential adverse effects.

No treatment can guarantee outcomes. Expected benefits and limitations are discussed during consultation.

No. Care is focused on safe, evidence-based approaches rather than one-size-fits-all solutions.

Sometimes reassurance, monitoring, or lifestyle guidance is the most appropriate outcome.