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Sex problems in family practice
1University of Minnesota, Department of Family Practice and Community Health, Minneapolis 55455.
Family Practice Research Journal
|January 1, 1988
Summary
Family physicians and residents find patient sexual problem management important, estimating 20% of patients have concerns. Training is crucial for recognizing sexual issues, with continuing medical education favored by practicing physicians.
Area of Science:
- Medical Education
- Family Medicine
- Sexual Health
Background:
- Physicians recognize the importance of addressing patient sexual health concerns.
- An estimated 20% of patients present with sexual problems or concerns.
- Sexual abuse is a significant concern for healthcare providers.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the perceived importance of sex counseling among physicians.
- To evaluate the perceived value of different educational methods for sexual health.
- To understand when and how physicians inquire about sexual problems and their confidence in managing them.
Main Methods:
- Survey administered to 76 practicing family physicians and 139 residents.
- Assessed perceived importance of sex counseling and value of various educational formats.
- Investigated inquiry practices and self-rated ability to manage 24 specific sexual issues.
Main Results:
- Both practicing physicians and residents deemed managing sexual problems important.
- A majority of physicians only inquire about sexual issues when "psycho-sexual signs" are present.
- Continuing medical education courses were identified as the most valuable training method by practicing physicians.
Conclusions:
- Physicians acknowledge the significance of addressing sexual health in practice.
- There is a need for enhanced training in recognizing and managing sexual health issues, particularly given the tendency to wait for overt signs.
- Continuing medical education is a preferred and effective modality for improving physicians' skills in sexual problem management.