Psychosexual medicine Flashcards
(11 cards)
How common are psychosexual problems?
51% of women and 42% of men have experienced a sexual difficulty in the last year
What is a psychosexual problem?
a sexual problem that is physcological rather than physiological in origin
What causes psychosexual problems?
Humans have a conscious mind and subconscious mind
The subconscious mind contains early memories and relationships with primary caregivers
In cases where there are negative memories or relationships, there are defences that can be put in place by the mind to suppress these
Defense mechanisms are strategies to protect oneself against anxiety
They are usually developed in childhood and become unhelpful in adult life
They can protect against feelings of loss, shame or disappointment
In adult life, they can present as denial, anger issues and psychosexual problems
What is involved in psychodynamic therapy
- Listen
- Observe
- Feelings
- Thinking and interpreting
What are some common psychosexual problems?
- Erectile dysfunction
- Dysparenuia/Vaginismus
- Loss of libido/Anorgasmia
- Emotional effects of STIs
- Sexual problems post-childbirth
- Sexual problems resulting from infertility or menopause
- Sexual problems after surgery or TOP
- Sexual problems after sexual abuse (Refer also to sexual counselling)
What is vaginismus?
Involuntary tightening of the pelvic floor muscles
What is dyspareunia?
Painful penetrative sex
When should a psychosexual problem be considered?
- Chronic pelvic pain/genital pain with no clear cause
- Recurrent vaginal or penile discharge
- Contraception related problems
What is provoked vulvodynia?
This is vulvar pain triggered by touch or pressure, often during sexual activity or tampon use
What are some symptoms of provoked vulvodynia
burning, stinging, tearing or throbbing sensation
What causes provoked vulvodynia
No clear cause on investigations
Possible causes include:
- Nerve damage, irritation or chronic inflammation from recurrent infection
- Psychological factors including stress and anxiety
