SEXUAL DISCUSSION IN MEDICINE
Advertisement
Find a journalPublish with usTrack your research
How to Talk on Sexuality in a Medical Consultation
- Chapter
- First Online: 02 August 2024
- pp 1–11
- Cite this chapter
Medical Disorders and Sexual Health
Part of the book series: Trends in Andrology and Sexual Medicine ((TASM))
- 669 Accesses
Abstract
Gynecologists, urologists, and other healthcare providers are not talking enough with their patients on sex, sexual problems, and sexuality in general, leaving many of their patients to suffer in silence. Comprehensive medical care should embody the biopsychosocial care model and involve all aspects of health. It is not uncommon that sexual health topics may be ignored or eluded because of patient and provider discomfort. Although healthcare professionals acknowledge the importance of having conversations with patients about these topics, discussing this can be challenging for them. Healthcare providers treating patients in different situations quote barriers to communicating about sex, sexuality, and sexual health. For example, healthcare professionals in primary care felt limited in their knowledge and skills to address sexual questions from patients. On the other hand, specialists treating patients with chronic illness reported that discomfort, lack of confidence, and patient factors such as religion, ethnics, social norms, and values are important barriers in discussing on sexual issues, and another salient obstacle is the lack of tools on ways in which such a sensitive topic can be addressed in conversation.
This is a preview of subscription content, log in via an institution to check access.
Similar content being viewed by others
Care of the Patient with Sexual Concerns
Chapter© 2022

Care of the Patient with Sexual Concerns
Chapter© 2020
Talking Sexuality
Chapter© 2023
Explore related subjects
Discover the latest articles, books and news in related subjects, suggested using machine learning.
- Gender and Health
- Sexual Medicine
- Sexuality Studies
- Sexual Disorder
- Health Communication
- Sexual behaviour
- Sexual Function and Dysfunction in Women
References
- Luo C, Xu S, Bao S, Zhang B, Zhong X, Huang Z, Li P, Liang J. Association between sexual frequency and all-cause mortality in young and middle-aged patients with hypertension: a cohort study of patient data from the National Health and nutrition examination survey 2005–2014. J Sex Med. 2023;20(8):1078–84. https://doi.org/10.1093/jsxmed/qdad079.Article PubMed Google Scholar
- Brandis Kepler S, Hasin T, Benyamini Y, Goldbourt U, Gerber Y. Frequency of sexual activity and long-term survival after acute myocardial infarction. Am J Med. 2020;133(1):100–7. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.amjmed.2019.06.019. Epub 2019 Jul 8.Article PubMed Google Scholar
- Chovanec M, Vasilkova L, Petrikova L, Obertova J, Palacka P, Rejlekova K, Sycova-Mila Z, Kalavska K, Svetlovska D, Mladosievicova B, Mardiak J, Mego M. Long-term sexual functioning in germ-cell tumor survivors. BMC Cancer. 2020;20(1):779. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12885-020-07301-6. PMID: 32819309; PMCID: PMC7439516.Article CAS PubMed PubMed Central Google Scholar
- World Health Organization. Defining sexual health: report of a technical consultation on sexual health, 28–31 January 2002, Geneva. Geneva: World Health Organization; 2006.Google Scholar
- Van Lunsen RHW, Laan ETM. Sexual health. In: Steegers EAP, Fauser BC, Hilders CG, Jaddoe VW, Massuger LF, Schoenmakers S, van der Post JA, editors. Textbook of obstetrics and gynaecology: a life course approach Springer; 2019. p. 177–194Chapter Google Scholar
- Basson R, Rees P, Wang R, Montejo AL, Incrocci L. Sexual function in chronic illness. J Sex Med. 2010;7:374–88. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1743-6109.2009.01621.x.Article PubMed Google Scholar
- Arring N, Barton DL, Reese JB. Clinical practice strategies to address sexual health in female cancer survivors. J Clin Oncol. 2023;41:JCO2300523. https://doi.org/10.1200/JCO.23.00523. Epub ahead of print.Article Google Scholar
- Ryan KL, Arbuckle-Bernstein V, Smith G, Phillips J. Let’s talk about sex: a survey of patients’ preferences when addressing sexual health concerns in a family medicine residency program office. PRiMER. 2018;2:23. https://doi.org/10.22454/PRiMER.2018.728252. PMID: 32818195; PMCID: PMC7426112.Article PubMed PubMed Central Google Scholar
- Gott M. “Opening a can of worms”: GP and practice nurse barriers to talking about sexual health in primary care. Fam Pract. 2004;21:528–36. https://doi.org/10.1093/fampra/cmh509.Article PubMed Google Scholar
- O’Connor SR, Connaghan J, Maguire R, Kotronoulas G, Flannagan C, Jain S, et al. Healthcare professional perceived barriers and facilitators to discussing sexual wellbeing with patients after diagnosis of chronic illness: a mixed-methods evidence synthesis. Patient Educ Couns. 2019;102:850–63. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pec.2018.12.015.Article PubMed Google Scholar
- Byrne M, Doherty S, McGee HM, Murphy AW. General practitioner views about discussing sexual issues with patients with coronary heart disease: a national survey in Ireland. BMC Fam Pract. 2010;11:40. https://doi.org/10.1186/1471-2296-11-40.Article PubMed PubMed Central Google Scholar
- Canzona MR, Garcia D, Fisher CL, Raleigh M, Kalish V, Ledford CJW. Communication about sexual health with breast cancer survivors: variation among patient and provider perspectives. Patient Educ Couns. 2016;99:1814–20. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pec.2016.06.019.Article PubMed Google Scholar
- Benoot C, Enzlin P, Peremans L, Bilsen J. Addressing sexual issues in palliative care: a qualitative study on nurses’ attitudes, roles and experiences. J Adv Nurs. 2018;74:1583–94. https://doi.org/10.1111/jan.13572.Article PubMed Google Scholar
- Kelder I, Sneijder P, Klarenbeek A, Laan E. Communication practices in conversations about sexual health in medical healthcare settings: a systematic review. Patient Educ Couns. 2022;105(4):858–68. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pec.2021.07.049. Epub 2021 Jul 29.Article PubMed Google Scholar
- Coyne JC, Rohrbaugh MJ, Shoham V, Sonnega JS, Nicklas JM, Cranford JA. Prognostic importance of marital quality for survival of congestive heart failure. Am J Cardiol. 2001;88(5):526–9. https://doi.org/10.1016/s0002-9149(01)01731-3.Article CAS PubMed Google Scholar
- Joel S, Eastwick PW, Allison CJ, Arriaga XB, Baker ZG, Bar-Kalifa E, Bergeron S, et al. Machine learning uncovers the most robust self-report predictors of relationship quality across 43 longitudinal couples studies. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A. 2020;117(32):19061–71. https://doi.org/10.1073/pnas.1917036117. Epub 2020 Jul 27. PMID: 32719123; PMCID: PMC7431040.Article CAS PubMed PubMed Central Google Scholar
- Barsky JL, Friedman MA, Rosen RC. Sexual dysfunction and chronic illness: the role of flexibility in coping. J Sex Marital Ther. 2006;32(3):235–53. https://doi.org/10.1080/00926230600575322.Article PubMed Google Scholar
- Masters WH, Johnson VE, Kolodny RC. Human sexuality. Boston: Little, Brown and Company; 1982.Google Scholar
- Lobitz WC, Lobitz GK. Clinical assessment in the treatment of sexual dysfunctions. In: LoPiccolo J, LoPiccolo L, editors. Handbook of sex therapy. Perspectives in sexuality. Boston: Springer; 1978. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4613-3973-1_5.Chapter Google Scholar
- LoPiccolo L, Heiman JR. Sexual assessment and history interview. In: LoPiccolo J, LoPiccolo L, editors. Handbook of sex therapy. Perspectives in sexuality. Boston: Springer; 1978. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4613-3973-1_6.Chapter Google Scholar
- Kaplan HS. The new sexual therapy. New York: Routledge (Taylor and Francis Group); 1975.Google Scholar
- Hawton K. Sex therapy. Oxford: Oxford University Press; 1985.Book Google Scholar
- Brotto L, Atallah S, Johnson-Agbakwu C, Rosenbaum T, Abdo C, Byers ES, Graham C, Nobre P, Wylie K. Psychological and interpersonal dimensions of sexual function and dysfunction. J Sex Med. 2016;13(4):538–71. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jsxm.2016.01.019. Epub 2016 Mar 25.Article PubMed Google Scholar
- Leserman J, Li Z, Hu YJ, Drossman DA. How multiple types of stressors impact on health. Psychosom Med. 1998;60(2):175–81. https://doi.org/10.1097/00006842-199803000-00012.Article CAS PubMed Google Scholar
- Maseroli E, Scavello I, Campone B, Di Stasi V, Cipriani S, Felciai F, Camartini V, Magini A, Castellini G, Ricca V, Maggi M, Vignozzi L. Psychosexual correlates of unwanted sexual experiences in women Consulting for Female Sexual Dysfunction according to their timing across the life span. J Sex Med. 2018;15(12):1739–51. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jsxm.2018.10.004. Epub 2018 Nov 13.Article PubMed Google Scholar
- Nangle DW, Hansen DJ. Relations between social skills and high-risk sexual interactions among adolescents. Current issues and future directions. Behav Modif. 1993;17(2):113–35. https://doi.org/10.1177/01454455930172002.Article CAS PubMed Google Scholar
Author information
Authors and Affiliations
- Gynecological Department, Clinical Institute of Gynecology, Obstetrics and Neonatology, Hospital Clinic de Barcelona, Barcelona, SpainCamil Castelo-Branco
- Clinical Sexology Working Group, Hospital Clinic de Barcelona, Barcelona, SpainCamil Castelo-Branco
- Surgery and Medical-Surgical Specialties, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universitat de Barcelona (UB), Barcelona, SpainCamil Castelo-Branco
- Institut d’Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer, Barcelona, SpainCamil Castelo-Branco
Corresponding author
Correspondence to Camil Castelo-Branco.
Editor information
Editors and Affiliations
- IDIBAPS, Hospital Clínic – University of Barcelona, Barcelona, SpainCamil Castelo-Branco
- IDIBAPS, Hospital Clínic – University of Barcelona, Barcelona, SpainSònia Anglès Acedo
Rights and permissions
Copyright information
© 2024 The Author(s), under exclusive license to Springer Nature Switzerland AG
About this chapter
Cite this chapter
Castelo-Branco, C. (2024). How to Talk on Sexuality in a Medical Consultation. In: Castelo-Branco, C., Anglès Acedo, S. (eds) Medical Disorders and Sexual Health. Trends in Andrology and Sexual Medicine. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-55080-5_1
Download citation
- DOIhttps://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-55080-5_1
- Published02 August 2024
- Publisher NameSpringer, Cham
- Print ISBN978-3-031-55079-9
- Online ISBN978-3-031-55080-5
- eBook PackagesMedicineMedicine (R0)
Keywords
- Sexual health communication practices
- Healthcare professionals
- Sex, sexuality, and sexual health talks
- Office
Publish with us
Access this chapter
Subscribe and save
Springer+
from $39.99 /Month
- Starting from 10 chapters or articles per month
- Access and download chapters and articles from more than 300k books and 2,500 journals
- Cancel anytime
Buy Now
- Available as PDF
- Read on any device
- Instant download
- Own it forever
Buy Chapter
Tax calculation will be finalised at checkout
Purchases are for personal use only
- Sections
- References
- Abstract
- References
- Author information
- Editor information
- Rights and permissions
- Copyright information
- About this chapter
- Publish with us
Footer Navigation
Discover content
Publish with us
Products and services
Our brands
Corporate Navigation
- Your privacy choices/Manage cookies
- Your US state privacy rights
- Accessibility statement
- Terms and conditions
- Privacy policy
- Help and support
- Legal notice
- Cancel contracts here
209.252.172.109
© 2026 Springer NatureSkip to main content
Advertisement
Find a journalPublish with usTrack your research
How to Talk on Sexuality in a Medical Consultation
- Chapter
- First Online: 02 August 2024
- pp 1–11
- Cite this chapter
Medical Disorders and Sexual Health
Part of the book series: Trends in Andrology and Sexual Medicine ((TASM))
- 669 Accesses
Abstract
Gynecologists, urologists, and other healthcare providers are not talking enough with their patients on sex, sexual problems, and sexuality in general, leaving many of their patients to suffer in silence. Comprehensive medical care should embody the biopsychosocial care model and involve all aspects of health. It is not uncommon that sexual health topics may be ignored or eluded because of patient and provider discomfort. Although healthcare professionals acknowledge the importance of having conversations with patients about these topics, discussing this can be challenging for them. Healthcare providers treating patients in different situations quote barriers to communicating about sex, sexuality, and sexual health. For example, healthcare professionals in primary care felt limited in their knowledge and skills to address sexual questions from patients. On the other hand, specialists treating patients with chronic illness reported that discomfort, lack of confidence, and patient factors such as religion, ethnics, social norms, and values are important barriers in discussing on sexual issues, and another salient obstacle is the lack of tools on ways in which such a sensitive topic can be addressed in conversation.
This is a preview of subscription content, log in via an institution to check access.
Similar content being viewed by others
Care of the Patient with Sexual Concerns
Chapter© 2022

Care of the Patient with Sexual Concerns
Chapter© 2020
Talking Sexuality
Chapter© 2023
Explore related subjects
Discover the latest articles, books and news in related subjects, suggested using machine learning.
- Gender and Health
- Sexual Medicine
- Sexuality Studies
- Sexual Disorder
- Health Communication
- Sexual behaviour
- Sexual Function and Dysfunction in Women
References
- Luo C, Xu S, Bao S, Zhang B, Zhong X, Huang Z, Li P, Liang J. Association between sexual frequency and all-cause mortality in young and middle-aged patients with hypertension: a cohort study of patient data from the National Health and nutrition examination survey 2005–2014. J Sex Med. 2023;20(8):1078–84. https://doi.org/10.1093/jsxmed/qdad079.Article PubMed Google Scholar
- Brandis Kepler S, Hasin T, Benyamini Y, Goldbourt U, Gerber Y. Frequency of sexual activity and long-term survival after acute myocardial infarction. Am J Med. 2020;133(1):100–7. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.amjmed.2019.06.019. Epub 2019 Jul 8.Article PubMed Google Scholar
- Chovanec M, Vasilkova L, Petrikova L, Obertova J, Palacka P, Rejlekova K, Sycova-Mila Z, Kalavska K, Svetlovska D, Mladosievicova B, Mardiak J, Mego M. Long-term sexual functioning in germ-cell tumor survivors. BMC Cancer. 2020;20(1):779. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12885-020-07301-6. PMID: 32819309; PMCID: PMC7439516.Article CAS PubMed PubMed Central Google Scholar
- World Health Organization. Defining sexual health: report of a technical consultation on sexual health, 28–31 January 2002, Geneva. Geneva: World Health Organization; 2006.Google Scholar
- Van Lunsen RHW, Laan ETM. Sexual health. In: Steegers EAP, Fauser BC, Hilders CG, Jaddoe VW, Massuger LF, Schoenmakers S, van der Post JA, editors. Textbook of obstetrics and gynaecology: a life course approach Springer; 2019. p. 177–194Chapter Google Scholar
- Basson R, Rees P, Wang R, Montejo AL, Incrocci L. Sexual function in chronic illness. J Sex Med. 2010;7:374–88. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1743-6109.2009.01621.x.Article PubMed Google Scholar
- Arring N, Barton DL, Reese JB. Clinical practice strategies to address sexual health in female cancer survivors. J Clin Oncol. 2023;41:JCO2300523. https://doi.org/10.1200/JCO.23.00523. Epub ahead of print.Article Google Scholar
- Ryan KL, Arbuckle-Bernstein V, Smith G, Phillips J. Let’s talk about sex: a survey of patients’ preferences when addressing sexual health concerns in a family medicine residency program office. PRiMER. 2018;2:23. https://doi.org/10.22454/PRiMER.2018.728252. PMID: 32818195; PMCID: PMC7426112.Article PubMed PubMed Central Google Scholar
- Gott M. “Opening a can of worms”: GP and practice nurse barriers to talking about sexual health in primary care. Fam Pract. 2004;21:528–36. https://doi.org/10.1093/fampra/cmh509.Article PubMed Google Scholar
- O’Connor SR, Connaghan J, Maguire R, Kotronoulas G, Flannagan C, Jain S, et al. Healthcare professional perceived barriers and facilitators to discussing sexual wellbeing with patients after diagnosis of chronic illness: a mixed-methods evidence synthesis. Patient Educ Couns. 2019;102:850–63. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pec.2018.12.015.Article PubMed Google Scholar
- Byrne M, Doherty S, McGee HM, Murphy AW. General practitioner views about discussing sexual issues with patients with coronary heart disease: a national survey in Ireland. BMC Fam Pract. 2010;11:40. https://doi.org/10.1186/1471-2296-11-40.Article PubMed PubMed Central Google Scholar
- Canzona MR, Garcia D, Fisher CL, Raleigh M, Kalish V, Ledford CJW. Communication about sexual health with breast cancer survivors: variation among patient and provider perspectives. Patient Educ Couns. 2016;99:1814–20. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pec.2016.06.019.Article PubMed Google Scholar
- Benoot C, Enzlin P, Peremans L, Bilsen J. Addressing sexual issues in palliative care: a qualitative study on nurses’ attitudes, roles and experiences. J Adv Nurs. 2018;74:1583–94. https://doi.org/10.1111/jan.13572.Article PubMed Google Scholar
- Kelder I, Sneijder P, Klarenbeek A, Laan E. Communication practices in conversations about sexual health in medical healthcare settings: a systematic review. Patient Educ Couns. 2022;105(4):858–68. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pec.2021.07.049. Epub 2021 Jul 29.Article PubMed Google Scholar
- Coyne JC, Rohrbaugh MJ, Shoham V, Sonnega JS, Nicklas JM, Cranford JA. Prognostic importance of marital quality for survival of congestive heart failure. Am J Cardiol. 2001;88(5):526–9. https://doi.org/10.1016/s0002-9149(01)01731-3.Article CAS PubMed Google Scholar
- Joel S, Eastwick PW, Allison CJ, Arriaga XB, Baker ZG, Bar-Kalifa E, Bergeron S, et al. Machine learning uncovers the most robust self-report predictors of relationship quality across 43 longitudinal couples studies. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A. 2020;117(32):19061–71. https://doi.org/10.1073/pnas.1917036117. Epub 2020 Jul 27. PMID: 32719123; PMCID: PMC7431040.Article CAS PubMed PubMed Central Google Scholar
- Barsky JL, Friedman MA, Rosen RC. Sexual dysfunction and chronic illness: the role of flexibility in coping. J Sex Marital Ther. 2006;32(3):235–53. https://doi.org/10.1080/00926230600575322.Article PubMed Google Scholar
- Masters WH, Johnson VE, Kolodny RC. Human sexuality. Boston: Little, Brown and Company; 1982.Google Scholar
- Lobitz WC, Lobitz GK. Clinical assessment in the treatment of sexual dysfunctions. In: LoPiccolo J, LoPiccolo L, editors. Handbook of sex therapy. Perspectives in sexuality. Boston: Springer; 1978. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4613-3973-1_5.Chapter Google Scholar
- LoPiccolo L, Heiman JR. Sexual assessment and history interview. In: LoPiccolo J, LoPiccolo L, editors. Handbook of sex therapy. Perspectives in sexuality. Boston: Springer; 1978. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4613-3973-1_6.Chapter Google Scholar
- Kaplan HS. The new sexual therapy. New York: Routledge (Taylor and Francis Group); 1975.Google Scholar
- Hawton K. Sex therapy. Oxford: Oxford University Press; 1985.Book Google Scholar
- Brotto L, Atallah S, Johnson-Agbakwu C, Rosenbaum T, Abdo C, Byers ES, Graham C, Nobre P, Wylie K. Psychological and interpersonal dimensions of sexual function and dysfunction. J Sex Med. 2016;13(4):538–71. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jsxm.2016.01.019. Epub 2016 Mar 25.Article PubMed Google Scholar
- Leserman J, Li Z, Hu YJ, Drossman DA. How multiple types of stressors impact on health. Psychosom Med. 1998;60(2):175–81. https://doi.org/10.1097/00006842-199803000-00012.Article CAS PubMed Google Scholar
- Maseroli E, Scavello I, Campone B, Di Stasi V, Cipriani S, Felciai F, Camartini V, Magini A, Castellini G, Ricca V, Maggi M, Vignozzi L. Psychosexual correlates of unwanted sexual experiences in women Consulting for Female Sexual Dysfunction according to their timing across the life span. J Sex Med. 2018;15(12):1739–51. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jsxm.2018.10.004. Epub 2018 Nov 13.Article PubMed Google Scholar
- Nangle DW, Hansen DJ. Relations between social skills and high-risk sexual interactions among adolescents. Current issues and future directions. Behav Modif. 1993;17(2):113–35. https://doi.org/10.1177/01454455930172002.Article CAS PubMed Google Scholar
Author information
Authors and Affiliations
- Gynecological Department, Clinical Institute of Gynecology, Obstetrics and Neonatology, Hospital Clinic de Barcelona, Barcelona, SpainCamil Castelo-Branco
- Clinical Sexology Working Group, Hospital Clinic de Barcelona, Barcelona, SpainCamil Castelo-Branco
- Surgery and Medical-Surgical Specialties, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universitat de Barcelona (UB), Barcelona, SpainCamil Castelo-Branco
- Institut d’Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer, Barcelona, SpainCamil Castelo-Branco
Corresponding author
Correspondence to Camil Castelo-Branco.
Editor information
Editors and Affiliations
- IDIBAPS, Hospital Clínic – University of Barcelona, Barcelona, SpainCamil Castelo-Branco
- IDIBAPS, Hospital Clínic – University of Barcelona, Barcelona, SpainSònia Anglès Acedo
Rights and permissions
Copyright information
© 2024 The Author(s), under exclusive license to Springer Nature Switzerland AG
About this chapter
Cite this chapter
Castelo-Branco, C. (2024). How to Talk on Sexuality in a Medical Consultation. In: Castelo-Branco, C., Anglès Acedo, S. (eds) Medical Disorders and Sexual Health. Trends in Andrology and Sexual Medicine. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-55080-5_1
Download citation
- DOIhttps://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-55080-5_1
- Published02 August 2024
- Publisher NameSpringer, Cham
- Print ISBN978-3-031-55079-9
- Online ISBN978-3-031-55080-5
- eBook PackagesMedicineMedicine (R0)
Keywords
- Sexual health communication practices
- Healthcare professionals
- Sex, sexuality, and sexual health talks
- Office
Publish with us
Access this chapter
Subscribe and save
Springer+
from $39.99 /Month
- Starting from 10 chapters or articles per month
- Access and download chapters and articles from more than 300k books and 2,500 journals
- Cancel anytime
Buy Now
- Available as PDF
- Read on any device
- Instant download
- Own it forever
Buy Chapter
Tax calculation will be finalised at checkout
Purchases are for personal use only
- Sections
- References
- Abstract
- References
- Author information
- Editor information
- Rights and permissions
- Copyright information
- About this chapter
- Publish with us
Footer Navigation
Discover content
Publish with us
Products and services
Our brands
Corporate Navigation
- Your privacy choices/Manage cookies
- Your US state privacy rights
- Accessibility statement
- Terms and conditions
- Privacy policy
- Help and support
- Legal notice
- Cancel contracts here
209.252.172.109
© 2026 Springer NatureSkip to main content
Advertisement
Find a journalPublish with usTrack your research
How to Talk on Sexuality in a Medical Consultation
- Chapter
- First Online: 02 August 2024
- pp 1–11
- Cite this chapter
Medical Disorders and Sexual Health
Part of the book series: Trends in Andrology and Sexual Medicine ((TASM))
- 669 Accesses
Abstract
Gynecologists, urologists, and other healthcare providers are not talking enough with their patients on sex, sexual problems, and sexuality in general, leaving many of their patients to suffer in silence. Comprehensive medical care should embody the biopsychosocial care model and involve all aspects of health. It is not uncommon that sexual health topics may be ignored or eluded because of patient and provider discomfort. Although healthcare professionals acknowledge the importance of having conversations with patients about these topics, discussing this can be challenging for them. Healthcare providers treating patients in different situations quote barriers to communicating about sex, sexuality, and sexual health. For example, healthcare professionals in primary care felt limited in their knowledge and skills to address sexual questions from patients. On the other hand, specialists treating patients with chronic illness reported that discomfort, lack of confidence, and patient factors such as religion, ethnics, social norms, and values are important barriers in discussing on sexual issues, and another salient obstacle is the lack of tools on ways in which such a sensitive topic can be addressed in conversation.
This is a preview of subscription content, log in via an institution to check access.
Similar content being viewed by others
Care of the Patient with Sexual Concerns
Chapter© 2022

Care of the Patient with Sexual Concerns
Chapter© 2020
Talking Sexuality
Chapter© 2023
Explore related subjects
Discover the latest articles, books and news in related subjects, suggested using machine learning.
- Gender and Health
- Sexual Medicine
- Sexuality Studies
- Sexual Disorder
- Health Communication
- Sexual behaviour
- Sexual Function and Dysfunction in Women
References
- Luo C, Xu S, Bao S, Zhang B, Zhong X, Huang Z, Li P, Liang J. Association between sexual frequency and all-cause mortality in young and middle-aged patients with hypertension: a cohort study of patient data from the National Health and nutrition examination survey 2005–2014. J Sex Med. 2023;20(8):1078–84. https://doi.org/10.1093/jsxmed/qdad079.Article PubMed Google Scholar
- Brandis Kepler S, Hasin T, Benyamini Y, Goldbourt U, Gerber Y. Frequency of sexual activity and long-term survival after acute myocardial infarction. Am J Med. 2020;133(1):100–7. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.amjmed.2019.06.019. Epub 2019 Jul 8.Article PubMed Google Scholar
- Chovanec M, Vasilkova L, Petrikova L, Obertova J, Palacka P, Rejlekova K, Sycova-Mila Z, Kalavska K, Svetlovska D, Mladosievicova B, Mardiak J, Mego M. Long-term sexual functioning in germ-cell tumor survivors. BMC Cancer. 2020;20(1):779. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12885-020-07301-6. PMID: 32819309; PMCID: PMC7439516.Article CAS PubMed PubMed Central Google Scholar
- World Health Organization. Defining sexual health: report of a technical consultation on sexual health, 28–31 January 2002, Geneva. Geneva: World Health Organization; 2006.Google Scholar
- Van Lunsen RHW, Laan ETM. Sexual health. In: Steegers EAP, Fauser BC, Hilders CG, Jaddoe VW, Massuger LF, Schoenmakers S, van der Post JA, editors. Textbook of obstetrics and gynaecology: a life course approach Springer; 2019. p. 177–194Chapter Google Scholar
- Basson R, Rees P, Wang R, Montejo AL, Incrocci L. Sexual function in chronic illness. J Sex Med. 2010;7:374–88. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1743-6109.2009.01621.x.Article PubMed Google Scholar
- Arring N, Barton DL, Reese JB. Clinical practice strategies to address sexual health in female cancer survivors. J Clin Oncol. 2023;41:JCO2300523. https://doi.org/10.1200/JCO.23.00523. Epub ahead of print.Article Google Scholar
- Ryan KL, Arbuckle-Bernstein V, Smith G, Phillips J. Let’s talk about sex: a survey of patients’ preferences when addressing sexual health concerns in a family medicine residency program office. PRiMER. 2018;2:23. https://doi.org/10.22454/PRiMER.2018.728252. PMID: 32818195; PMCID: PMC7426112.Article PubMed PubMed Central Google Scholar
- Gott M. “Opening a can of worms”: GP and practice nurse barriers to talking about sexual health in primary care. Fam Pract. 2004;21:528–36. https://doi.org/10.1093/fampra/cmh509.Article PubMed Google Scholar
- O’Connor SR, Connaghan J, Maguire R, Kotronoulas G, Flannagan C, Jain S, et al. Healthcare professional perceived barriers and facilitators to discussing sexual wellbeing with patients after diagnosis of chronic illness: a mixed-methods evidence synthesis. Patient Educ Couns. 2019;102:850–63. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pec.2018.12.015.Article PubMed Google Scholar
- Byrne M, Doherty S, McGee HM, Murphy AW. General practitioner views about discussing sexual issues with patients with coronary heart disease: a national survey in Ireland. BMC Fam Pract. 2010;11:40. https://doi.org/10.1186/1471-2296-11-40.Article PubMed PubMed Central Google Scholar
- Canzona MR, Garcia D, Fisher CL, Raleigh M, Kalish V, Ledford CJW. Communication about sexual health with breast cancer survivors: variation among patient and provider perspectives. Patient Educ Couns. 2016;99:1814–20. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pec.2016.06.019.Article PubMed Google Scholar
- Benoot C, Enzlin P, Peremans L, Bilsen J. Addressing sexual issues in palliative care: a qualitative study on nurses’ attitudes, roles and experiences. J Adv Nurs. 2018;74:1583–94. https://doi.org/10.1111/jan.13572.Article PubMed Google Scholar
- Kelder I, Sneijder P, Klarenbeek A, Laan E. Communication practices in conversations about sexual health in medical healthcare settings: a systematic review. Patient Educ Couns. 2022;105(4):858–68. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pec.2021.07.049. Epub 2021 Jul 29.Article PubMed Google Scholar
- Coyne JC, Rohrbaugh MJ, Shoham V, Sonnega JS, Nicklas JM, Cranford JA. Prognostic importance of marital quality for survival of congestive heart failure. Am J Cardiol. 2001;88(5):526–9. https://doi.org/10.1016/s0002-9149(01)01731-3.Article CAS PubMed Google Scholar
- Joel S, Eastwick PW, Allison CJ, Arriaga XB, Baker ZG, Bar-Kalifa E, Bergeron S, et al. Machine learning uncovers the most robust self-report predictors of relationship quality across 43 longitudinal couples studies. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A. 2020;117(32):19061–71. https://doi.org/10.1073/pnas.1917036117. Epub 2020 Jul 27. PMID: 32719123; PMCID: PMC7431040.Article CAS PubMed PubMed Central Google Scholar
- Barsky JL, Friedman MA, Rosen RC. Sexual dysfunction and chronic illness: the role of flexibility in coping. J Sex Marital Ther. 2006;32(3):235–53. https://doi.org/10.1080/00926230600575322.Article PubMed Google Scholar
- Masters WH, Johnson VE, Kolodny RC. Human sexuality. Boston: Little, Brown and Company; 1982.Google Scholar
- Lobitz WC, Lobitz GK. Clinical assessment in the treatment of sexual dysfunctions. In: LoPiccolo J, LoPiccolo L, editors. Handbook of sex therapy. Perspectives in sexuality. Boston: Springer; 1978. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4613-3973-1_5.Chapter Google Scholar
- LoPiccolo L, Heiman JR. Sexual assessment and history interview. In: LoPiccolo J, LoPiccolo L, editors. Handbook of sex therapy. Perspectives in sexuality. Boston: Springer; 1978. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4613-3973-1_6.Chapter Google Scholar
- Kaplan HS. The new sexual therapy. New York: Routledge (Taylor and Francis Group); 1975.Google Scholar
- Hawton K. Sex therapy. Oxford: Oxford University Press; 1985.Book Google Scholar
- Brotto L, Atallah S, Johnson-Agbakwu C, Rosenbaum T, Abdo C, Byers ES, Graham C, Nobre P, Wylie K. Psychological and interpersonal dimensions of sexual function and dysfunction. J Sex Med. 2016;13(4):538–71. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jsxm.2016.01.019. Epub 2016 Mar 25.Article PubMed Google Scholar
- Leserman J, Li Z, Hu YJ, Drossman DA. How multiple types of stressors impact on health. Psychosom Med. 1998;60(2):175–81. https://doi.org/10.1097/00006842-199803000-00012.Article CAS PubMed Google Scholar
- Maseroli E, Scavello I, Campone B, Di Stasi V, Cipriani S, Felciai F, Camartini V, Magini A, Castellini G, Ricca V, Maggi M, Vignozzi L. Psychosexual correlates of unwanted sexual experiences in women Consulting for Female Sexual Dysfunction according to their timing across the life span. J Sex Med. 2018;15(12):1739–51. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jsxm.2018.10.004. Epub 2018 Nov 13.Article PubMed Google Scholar
- Nangle DW, Hansen DJ. Relations between social skills and high-risk sexual interactions among adolescents. Current issues and future directions. Behav Modif. 1993;17(2):113–35. https://doi.org/10.1177/01454455930172002.Article CAS PubMed Google Scholar
Author information
Authors and Affiliations
- Gynecological Department, Clinical Institute of Gynecology, Obstetrics and Neonatology, Hospital Clinic de Barcelona, Barcelona, SpainCamil Castelo-Branco
- Clinical Sexology Working Group, Hospital Clinic de Barcelona, Barcelona, SpainCamil Castelo-Branco
- Surgery and Medical-Surgical Specialties, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universitat de Barcelona (UB), Barcelona, SpainCamil Castelo-Branco
- Institut d’Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer, Barcelona, SpainCamil Castelo-Branco
Corresponding author
Correspondence to Camil Castelo-Branco.
Editor information
Editors and Affiliations
- IDIBAPS, Hospital Clínic – University of Barcelona, Barcelona, SpainCamil Castelo-Branco
- IDIBAPS, Hospital Clínic – University of Barcelona, Barcelona, SpainSònia Anglès Acedo
Rights and permissions
Copyright information
© 2024 The Author(s), under exclusive license to Springer Nature Switzerland AG
About this chapter
Cite this chapter
Castelo-Branco, C. (2024). How to Talk on Sexuality in a Medical Consultation. In: Castelo-Branco, C., Anglès Acedo, S. (eds) Medical Disorders and Sexual Health. Trends in Andrology and Sexual Medicine. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-55080-5_1
Download citation
- DOIhttps://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-55080-5_1
- Published02 August 2024
- Publisher NameSpringer, Cham
- Print ISBN978-3-031-55079-9
- Online ISBN978-3-031-55080-5
- eBook PackagesMedicineMedicine (R0)
Keywords
- Sexual health communication practices
- Healthcare professionals
- Sex, sexuality, and sexual health talks
- Office
Publish with us
Access this chapter
Subscribe and save
Springer+
from $39.99 /Month
- Starting from 10 chapters or articles per month
- Access and download chapters and articles from more than 300k books and 2,500 journals
- Cancel anytime
Buy Now
- Available as PDF
- Read on any device
- Instant download
- Own it forever
Buy Chapter
Tax calculation will be finalised at checkout
Purchases are for personal use only
- Sections
- References
- Abstract
- References
- Author information
- Editor information
- Rights and permissions
- Copyright information
- About this chapter
- Publish with us
Footer Navigation
Discover content
Publish with us
Products and services
Our brands
Corporate Navigation
- Your privacy choices/Manage cookies
- Your US state privacy rights
- Accessibility statement
- Terms and conditions
- Privacy policy
- Help and support
- Legal notice
- Cancel contracts here
209.252.172.109
© 2026 Springer Nature
