Studio discussion: how GPs can confidently consult with patients with sexual problems

Sexual difficulties are common — around 50% of women and 40% of men in Britain experienced sexual difficulty in the past year, according to the National Survey of Sexual Attitudes and Lifestyles. However, both patients and clinicians can find it difficult to initiate discussions about sexual function, and these issues often go unmentioned in primary care. 

In this episode of the Clinical Update podcast, the MIMS Learning editors highlight communication techniques and consultation skills. They also discuss key presentations in both men and women in primary care, including painful intercourse, low libido, and premature ejaculation, as well as the important link between erectile dysfunction and cardiovascular risk.

You can access the website version of this podcast, along with a list of key learning points, on MIMS Learning - and make notes for your appraisal. MIMS Learning offers hundreds of hours of CPD for healthcare professionals, along with a handy CPD organiser.

Educational objectives

After listening to this podcast, healthcare professionals should be better able to: 

• Create a safe and non-judgmental space to encourage patients to discuss sexual problems
• Recall communication models like ‘LOFTI’ and ‘PLISSIT’ to help structure consultations.
• Differentiate between superficial and deep dyspareunia 
• Recognise the red flag symptoms associated with dyspareunia
• Take a holistic approach to diagnosis and management of low libido, considering psychosocial factors
• Recognise erectile dysfunction as a significant risk marker for cardiovascular disease
• Describe the diagnostic criteria and management options for premature ejaculation

Please note: this podcast is presented by medical editors and discusses educational content written or presented by doctors, nurses and other healthcare professionals on the MIMS Learning website and at live events.

MIMS Learning

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Psychosexual disorders in women

Premature ejaculation: clinical review

Dyspareunia in women — red flag symptoms

Understanding sexual dysfunction in women with diabetes

Sex and the heart

Vulval pain: clinical review

Erectile dysfunction - red flag symptoms

Podcast bonus episode: Dr Olivia Hum on the latest in menopause management

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