Brief psychosomatic therapy for consummation of marriage

We describe the treatment of sexual problems by Members of the Institute of Psychosexual Medicine who are trained to recognise and use therapeutically the doctor-patient interaction. A prospective study of long-standing cases of nonconsummation was chosen for evaluation of therapy as there was a definite outcome. Of 50 couples, most of whom had previously had many unsuccessful consultations, 64 per cent consummated within six months and 72 per cent in 14 months. Among those who had failed actually to consummate at six months, one third had increased their ability to enjoy sexual activity. The average number of attendances was six, involving altogether about four hours' work. These findings compare well with those reported in other studies and suggest that referral of such cases to a doctor specially trained in brief psychosomatic therapy tends to bring the best results.