The Changes in ICD-11 Related to Sexual Health and Dysfunction and Their Implication for Clinical Practice

Area of Science:

• Medical Classification Systems
• Sexual Health
• Mental Health

Background:

• The International Classification of Diseases 10th Revision (ICD-10) historically separated sexual dysfunctions into mental and genitourinary disorders.
• Previous classifications created an artificial distinction between

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the significant changes in the classification of sexual health conditions within the 11th Revision of the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-11).
• To highlight the shift towards a more integrated and non-pathologizing approach to sexual health and gender identity.

Main Methods:

• Review and comparison of diagnostic criteria and chapter structures between ICD-10 and ICD-11.
• Analysis of the reclassification of sexual dysfunctions, Gender Incongruence, and paraphilic disorders.

Main Results:

• ICD-11 introduces a new chapter, "Conditions Related to Sexual Health," consolidating sexual dysfunctions and removing the organic/non-organic distinction.
• Gender Incongruence is now classified outside of mental disorders, reflecting a non-pathologizing stance on gender diversity.
• Paraphilic disorders have been revised, replacing "Disorders of sexual preference" with modified conceptualization and classification.

Conclusions:

• The ICD-11 represents a significant advancement in the classification of sexual health, aligning with current evidence, best practices, and human rights.
• This reformulation is expected to guide more integrative clinical approaches and reduce stigma associated with sexual health conditions and gender identity.