'Taboo' Intimate Issues May Be Leaving Patients Open To Longer-Term Health And Sexual Relationship Problems, UK
The survey of over 2,000 British men and women revealed a combination of stress and health problems that are affecting sexual relationships, the most common complaints being:1
- Stress (60%)
- Loss of sexual desire (70%)
- Vaginal discomfort or dryness (almost 40%)
The study findings revealed that men and women over the age of 55 are particularly susceptible to intimate health problems - many of which are associated with the menopause and ageing. 40% of women surveyed in this age group admit they experience intimate sensitivities, such as vaginal discomfort and dryness1, which is commonly associated with the drop in oestrogen levels seen during the menopause.2
This survey also highlights that PCPs should be aware that despite the common occurrences of intimate health issues, people (especially the older generations who are most at risk) are still unwilling to discuss these 'taboo' problems, even to the detriment of their sexual relations. Only 40% of people regularly discuss their sex lives, and this trend becomes less common in respondents over 55 years old.1
"Sometimes it is easier to ignore our sexually related health problems than to address them. However, it's important to seek advice and help as many treatments are available. By ignoring physical symptoms, both men and women leave themselves at risk of the problems becoming more serious and less easy to put right. Most women find it very reassuring to share their concerns and are very relieved to find that they are not alone in facing their problems and help is available", advises Dr Annie Evans, women's health specialist.
Sex, Health and Relationship Knowledge Exchange Roadshows
'Sex, Health and Relationship Knowledge Exchange Roadshow' meetings are being held across the country in October and November 2007 to share best practice between Primary Care and local relationship counselling services. These meetings will provide PCPs with sexual health patient communication strategies and it is hoped will improve coordination in local sexual health services for post menopausal women, whom the survey found to be most affected by intimate health problems.
These free evening meetings are being organised by Novo Nordisk UK, in collaboration with Relate, the relationship people, and run for GPs and Practice Nurses between 18:45 - 20:15, on the following dates and locations:
- Croydon - Monday 1st October 2007
- Maidstone - Wednesday 3rd October 2007
- Peterborough - Thursday 18th October 2007
- Birmingham - 31st October 2007
- Manchester - 1st November 2007
Denise Knowles, Relate relationship counsellor and sex therapist commented: 'I have worked with many couples who are so embarrassed about intimate health complaints that it has caused a huge breakdown in communication among the couple and put serious pressure on the relationship.
This new research emphasises the extent to which sexual problems take on a bigger significance within the relationship - talking to a partner or a professional candidly about the issue is not easy, but it may save a great deal of emotional strain.'
Helpful lifestyle and treatment advice for menopausal women and their partners can be found at http://www.menopause-info.co.uk.
Further advice for patients can be found in a special 'Pillow Talk' resource which can be downloaded from http://www.menopause-info.co.uk. The guide should help encourage dialogue between couples about the intimate health issues that are associated with the menopause, and the impact that these conditions can have on their sex lives and relationships.
Survey population and further details
The survey was undertaken between July and August 2007 amongst 2,037 UK residents. The majority of respondents were female (78% female vs. 22% male). The survey population was aged 16+ but the majority of the survey sample (44.5%) was made-up of people aged 55+ years.
http://www.menopause-info.co.uk
"Taboo" intim Probleme mai pleca Pacienþii deschis pe termen mai lung Sãnãtate ºi relaþii sexuale Probleme, Marea Britanie - 'Taboo' Intimate Issues May Be Leaving Patients Open To Longer-Term Health And Sexual Relationship Problems, UK - articole medicale engleza - startsanatate