Sexual medicine: Why psychiatrists must talk to their patients about sex

Abstract

Objective: To review the prevalence of sexual concerns and the relevance of this area to psychiatrists and to present evidence supporting the need for psychiatrists to routinely include a sex-function inquiry in the assessment of their patients. Method: A review of the recent literature was undertaken. Conclusions: Sex is a fundamental quality-of-life issue. Sexual problems are extremely prevalent among the general population and even more so among persons with psychiatric or medical illness. There are at least 9 reasons why all physicians, perhaps psychiatrists especially, should make inquiry into sexual behaviours and response a routine part of caring for each patient.