11.04.2025
How Malaysians are transforming their intimate health journey
Breaking the stigma on intimate health in Malaysia — discover how new treatments and open conversations empower men and women to reclaim confidence and comfort.

Words: Dr. Nurul Ain Abdullah, MB BCh BAO (NUI, Ire) MSc (UCSI), Medical Director of Alainn Clinic.
© kevinzahri/Instagram (photo for illustration only)
In Malaysia, intimate health is a subject that’s often swept under the rug.
Talk about urinary incontinence or pelvic floor health can still feel like stepping into taboo territory. It's an issue that quietly disrupts daily life, affecting everything from physical comfort to relationships, mental health, and overall self-esteem. But there's hope for change — and it's beginning to happen.
The very idea of seeking help for intimate health issues like incontinence feels embarrassing, even though one in four women and many men experience these conditions. There's often the assumption that incontinence is just something to "put up with" as you age, or after childbirth. But this outdated thinking is starting to shift as more people realise that intimate wellness is an essential part of overall well-being, and there are solutions available to help regain control over their lives.
Opening the Dialogue: Education is Key
Intimate wellness is about so much more than just physical health. It’s about how we feel in our own skin, how we connect with others, and how we take care of both our bodies and our minds. It encompasses everything from managing pelvic floor strength and sexual health to dealing with the discomfort that comes with urinary issues. Many people in fact assume these conditions are just a natural part of ageing or childbirth, but in reality, they’re treatable. Left unaddressed, they can affect mental health, relationships, and overall quality of life.
But it doesn’t have to be this way. When people take charge of their intimate health — whether it’s strengthening pelvic floor muscles, addressing incontinence, or seeking help for sexual health concerns — they can reclaim their confidence and improve their relationships. Ultimately, it’s about feeling good in all aspects of our lives, from the physical to the emotional to the psychological.
Educational campaigns, community talks, and workshops can make a real impact. For example, women’s health organisations in Malaysia have shown how addressing topics like menopause, incontinence, and postpartum wellness in a supportive, accessible way helps people feel heard and understood, making them more likely to take action. By having these conversations — whether in a clinic, at a community event, or even with friends — we can normalise intimate health care and give people the tools they need to improve their well-being. Just as we regularly talk about fitness, skincare, and mental health, it’s time we give intimate wellness the same attention.
