Understanding & Discussing Women's Sexual Functioning: How to ...

“Assessment” Feedback
Assessment
Identify factors that appear to be
responsible for the development and
maintenance of the problem
– Medical conditions
– Medications
– Psychosocial factors
Interviewing Strategies
Start with easy questions
– Leave challenging (sexual) ones for later
Some questions to start the discussion
– What kinds of questions do you have about
your sexuality or what concerns do you have
about your sex life
– What is your sex life like at this point Is that
where you want it to be
– How happy are you with your sex life Is your
sexual activity pleasurable
“Assessment” Feedback (cont
(cont’d)
Review problem and normalize it; providing
some education
It’s normal for someone to
– avoid doing something that is painful, anxiety-
provoking, very difficult etc.
– have difficulties with sexual functioning after a really
stressful (traumatic) experience
– have difficulty with sexual function when you are
really down/depressed/sad/stressed out.
– have difficulties with sexual functioning when you are
having difficulties in your relationship
Illness-related Questions
What sexual changes, if any, have you noticed
– Since your illness/injury
– Since you began taking your medications
What questions or concerns do you have about
these changes
Would you like to talk with anyone further about
these changes
Adapted from: Villeneuve & Ozolins, , AXON, 1990
“Assessment” Feedback (cont
Invite feedback
Provide education: address any
medical/sexual misinformation
– Also consider “good enough sex” model
(cont’d)
Outline treatment components (e.g.
medication changes, psychotherapy/sex
therapy, sexual medicine, psychiatric, etc.)
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