Challenges in taking sexual history: A qualitative study of Indian postgraduate psychiatry trainees

Abstract

Context: In India, psychiatrist is an important point of helpseeking for sexual complaints. A detailed sexual history can go a long way in understanding sexual difficulties. In this background, there is inadequate information on the difficulties that psychiatry postgraduate trainees experience while taking a sexual history as part of a routine mental health evaluation. Aims: The aim was to study the difficulties experienced by postgraduate psychiatry trainees while taking sexual history as a part of routine mental health evaluation. Setting: This study was conducted in an Indian medical college general hospital psychiatry setting. Materials and Methods: This is a qualitative study using focus group discussions and in-depth interviews with postgraduate psychiatry trainees. Statistical Analysis: Content analysis was used to identify direct and latent themes. Results: Thematic saturation was achieved with 17 participants. Major themes of difficulties that emerged included trainee-related factors such as gender and sociocultural background of the trainee; patient-related factors such as age, gender, and sexual orientation; setting-related factors; and language-related difficulties. Conclusions: Specific and regular training in taking a sexual history is essential in addressing the difficulties faced by postgraduate psychiatry trainees in India.