Sexual Aspects of Health Care

The problems that bring people into the health care system often have sexual aspects. These problems include chronic pain, limited range of motion, hormone imbalances, depression, fatigue, postsurgical and postpartum adjustment, and medication side effects. Each of these can reduce sexual desire, arousal, functioning, variety, and fulfillment.

Sexuality, therefore, is part of the health care professional's concerns. Effective practitioners raise the issue of sexuality when appropriate, assess the degree to which patients' sexual functioning is undermined, validate patients' concerns, and discuss strategies for coping with the sexual impact of their medical problems and treatment.

We will examine the medical, social, and psychological aspects of patients' sexuality, and patients' most common sexual concerns, such as body image, sex role identity, the question of "normal" sex, and compromised functioning. Specific topics covered include:

• How to talk about sexuality with patients
• How to know when patients want & need to discuss sexuality
• Assessing sexual function
• Common assumptions about sex you should not make
• Common myths about sex most patients and health care professionals share
• Reasonable sexual expectations in various circumstances: what is "normal" function?
• Helping patients adapt their sexual activity to their health situation
• Dealing with sexual side effects of medications
• Handling your own discomfort about discussing sexuality

Participants will leave with practical tools for supporting patients in this critical arena, an expanded vocabulary for dealing with them, and up-to-date knowledge about sexual functioning and sexual psychology. Many participants will also find that the tools they acquire increase their comfort with sexuality, thus enhancing their own sexual expression.

Workshops are available for physicians, nurses, OTs, PTs, & other healthcare professionals.