Why we need to talk about sex

Abstract

Background: There is gaping lack of communication between health professionals and their patients regarding sexual health. Our growing knowledge and understanding of sexuality has the potential to revolutionize human relationships. For reasons that we will explore, sexual health is either being ignored or obtained from less reliable sources, such as pornography and the internet. Analysis: To empower us with the tools that we need to bring our knowledge and expertise to those who need it. To explore why patients and physicians are not talking about sex and discuss approaches to open up that conversation. A literature review of articles with analysis and discussion of their implications was performed. Outcome: To report the current status of sexual discussions between patients and physicians and to focus on strategies for change. There is a high incidence of sexual concerns among young, middle-aged and older men and women. The average length of time for conversations between physicians and adolescents about sex is 36 s. 9% of adults are asked about sexual functioning in routine visits. 85% of patients would like to be able to talk about a sex problem with their doctor. Most patients feared their physician would either dismiss their concerns or sense their doctor may feel uncomfortable talking about the subject. Physicians are avoiding the subject possibly out of unfamiliarity with certain practices. They may consider it to be another doctor's problem. Fear of offending the patient or being accused of sexual misconduct may play a role. Generational obstacles may be a factor. For some physicians it just might not be considered a priority. Conclusions: Sexual health has an impact and is impacted by every other body system. We all have an interest in this subject whatever our speciality. It is the elephant in the room. We need to talk about sex.L619418649 <br />