The journal of sexual medicine
-
Female sexual dysfunctions (FSDs) are very prevalent, multifaceted problems that continue to be under-recognized and undertreated. Improved recognition and management depend on physicians' inclination and ability to communicate with female patients about their sexual function. Many women hesitate to share sexual complaints due to concerns about physicians' time constraints or their interest in addressing it. Direct questioning by physicians about sexual function is often critical to patients' reporting of sexual concerns. ⋯ Healthcare professionals are aware of the high prevalence of FSDs but infrequently initiate a discussion of sexual function with their female patients or conduct a comprehensive evaluation for FSDs. Additional medical education and training are needed to improve the identification and management of FSDs in women.
-
Although the World Health Organization has declared that sexual health is an integral part of overall health, physicians seem to engage in taking the sexual health history less than their patients would desire. This study aimed at investigating the factors that predict physicians' involvement in addressing sexual health issues, including their attitudes toward the doctor-patient relationship, as well as sexual issues. ⋯ Physicians' training in communication skills seems to be fundamental for sexual history taking and the management of sexual problems, as it improves their level of comfort in dealing with sexual issues; exposure to sexual medicine courses, and psychosocial orientation, as well as physicians' personal sexual attitudes, are also important factors affecting their involvement in sexual medicine.