Related Experiment Video
Updated: Sep 25, 2026

Treatment Model for Young Patients with Psychogenic Erectile Dysfunction and Resultant Infertility
Published on: May 30, 2025
Medical student awareness of sexual health is poor
Tessa Fayers1, Tessa Crowley, Julian M Jenkins
1Accident & Emergency Department, Royal Free Hospital, Pond St, London NW3 2QG, UK. tfayers@hotmail.com
Abstract:
The aim of the study was to assess sexual health knowledge of medical students. Participants from the student population of an English Medical School (University of Bristol) were asked to fill in a questionnaire on the Internet about sexual health issues. The number of correct responses to each question was analysed according to participants' gender and medical school year. While certain issues relating to sexually transmitted infections, contraception and confidentiality in HIV testing were well understood, there was poor knowledge about the failure rate of condoms, abortion rates and prevalence of chlamydia. Women knew more about the contraceptive pill than men. Although increased years of medical training had some benefit in improving the accuracy of knowledge, this effect was surprisingly small. Most medical students have inaccurate factual knowledge about certain important sexual health issues. We consider this to reflect poorly on sexual health awareness in young people in general. There is need for greater sexual health education for future doctors and for the general public.
Related Concept Videos
Amebiasis
Disorders of the Male Reproductive System
Prostate disorders are another major concern. These conditions can impair urinary flow due to the prostate's location around the urethra. Symptoms...
Nursing Assessment of the Genitourinary System I: Health History
Sexually Transmitted Infections
Ethical Standards II
Nurses are entrusted with upholding various ethical principles and standards. Nurses forge solid therapeutic relationships using trust, empathy, autonomy, confidentiality, and professional competence.
Confidentiality is crucial, embodying respect for individual privacy and...
Barriers to Effective Communication II
Cultural barriers:
Differences in values, beliefs, religion, knowledge, and tradition can significantly impact communication. Awareness of nonverbal cues is critical, especially when conversing with a patient from a different culture. What appears appropriate in one culture may be inappropriate in another.
Semantic barriers:
As a result of their tendency to use...