For the past eight years, Alix has been experiencing pain that interferes with their sexual relations and wonders if this pain is "normal." They tried to discuss it with a doctor during a walk-in appointment, who then referred them to a gynecologist. Since then, Alix has been on a waitlist in the public healthcare system. Embarrassed by the pain they feel and concerned about disappointing their partner, Alix has not sought out any further treatments.
Alix is not alone in facing this type of difficulty. Sexual dysfunctions are persistent and debilitating problems that can manifest as a significant decrease in sexual desire or arousal, erectile difficulties, premature ejaculation, difficulties in achieving orgasm, or, as in Alix's case, pain during sexual intercourse1 . In the general population, nearly one in three individuals report living with a sexual dysfunction2 ,3 ,4 ,5 . Of these individuals, less than one in four of these will actively seek help5 .
Why do so few seek help? It is difficult to answer this question because we have limited knowledge about the obstacles faced by individuals living with a sexual dysfunction. However, these difficulties can negatively impact an individual’s quality of life by affecting mental health and intimate relationships6 ,7 ,8 . According to a recent study conducted by David Lafortune and his colleagues at the Department of Sexology5 , of the Université du Québec à Montréal, individuals seeking help for their sexual dysfunctions appear to be at the end of their rope : they report a greater number of different sexual dysfunctions, less sexual and relational satisfaction, and greater psychological distress compared to individuals living with a sexual dysfunction but who have not (yet) sought help5 .
The taboo surrounding sexual dysfunction: A health issue
Seeking help can be complex. In Alix's case, as well as for many others, discomfort and taboos surrounding sexuality can hinder or slow down the process of seeking help. Some individuals may believe that their sexual dysfunction is due to their age5 or other aspects of themselves, leading them to perceive it as inevitable. Lastly, some people may believe that there are no solutions or treatments for their difficulties, or they may simply not know where to turn for help5 .
Beyond personal challenges, healthcare professionals can sometimes be a barrier to seeking help. A study9 indicates that only one in three gynecology patients are asked about their sexual function, despite the majority of patients expressing a desire to discuss it9 . If professionals do not initiate these discussions during consultations, patients may feel uncomfortable bringing up the topic first.
Seeking help for sexual dysfunctions
Once a person like Alix decides to seek help for their sexual dysfunction, it can be challenging to know where to begin, whom to consult, and how to find the right professional. In Dr. Lafortune's study5 , only one out of four individuals living with a sexual dysfunction sought services. Among those who sought help, the majority (60%) reported encountering obstacles in their search for treatment, and two out of five individuals were unable to access services5 . These numbers highlight the difficulties faced by individuals experiencing sexual dysfunctions in Quebec when it comes to finding help. Moreover, several barriers in accessing treatment further complicate the issue.
Of the most common obstacles they face, individuals experiencing sexual dysfunctions cite5 :
- High cost of treatment (26%),
- Long wait times to get an appointment (25%),
- Lack of information about available services (16%).
When participants obtained services, the most frequently consulted professionals in Quebec were sexologists (36%), followed by physicians (19% general practitioners and 10% specialists), and psychologists (12%)5 .
Suggestions for seeking help
When living with a sexual dysfunction, it can be challenging to find resources. However, there are healthcare professionals and care options that can help you! Before starting your search, it's important to choose the right professional for you. Begin by identifying your needs, expectations, and goals. For instance, reflect on the impact of your sexual dysfunction on your life, what you hope to achieve through treatment, any concerns you may have about seeking treatment, and consider lifestyle factors that may contribute to your sexual dysfunction. If you have access to a doctor, you can discuss your concerns about your sexual difficulties with them. The doctor can explore whether your sexual dysfunction is caused (partially or entirely) by a medical condition and then refer you to specialized treatments or evaluations as needed (e.g., sexologist, psychologist, gynecologist, physiotherapist)2 .
The experience of a sexual dysfunction may also lead you to seek assistance in physiotherapy or psychology. Living with a sexual dysfunction is a common issue that many people face at some point in their lives, so it's important to remember that you are not alone in this situation. By seeking help and support, you can take the first step towards reclaiming your sexual well-being and living a more fulfilling life. Don't wait to seek help; there are solutions available to you!
*This blog article summarizes the main findings of the following study:
Lafortune, D., Girard, M., Dussault, É., Philibert, M., Hébert, M., Boislard, M.-A., Goyette, M., et Godbout, N. (2023). Who seeks sex therapy? Sexual dysfunction prevalence and correlates, and help-seeking among clinical and community samples. PLOS One, 18(3), e0282618. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0282618
To go further:
- The website of the Professional Order of Sexologists of Quebec provides a search engine that allows you to find sexologists near you based on your reasons for consultation. Sexologists are professionals specialized in understanding sexual functioning and behaviors, as well as improving and maintaining sexual health.
- The website of the Order of Psychologists of Quebec will help you find psychologists specializing in the treatment of sexual dysfunctions.
- The website of the Professional Order of Physiotherapy of Quebec lists physiotherapy professionals, including those specialized in pelvic floor physiotherapy, who can help with the treatment of sexual dysfunctions.
The publication of this article was made possible thanks to our partner, the Interdisciplinary Research Centre on Intimate Relationship Problems and Sexual Abuse (CRIPCAS), and the Fonds de recherche du Québec.
- 1Wincze, J. P., Weisberg, R. B., & Weisberg, R. B. (2015). Sexual dysfunction : A guide for assessment and treatment (3rd edition). Guilford Press
- 2 a b Lewis, R. W., Fugl-Meyer, K. S., Corona, G., Hayes, R. D., Laumann, E. O., Moreira, E. D., Rellini, A. H., & Segraves, T. (2010). Definitions/epidemiology/risk factors for sexual dysfunction. The Journal of Sexual Medicine, 7, 1598–607.
- 3Lee, D. M., Nazroo, J., O’Connor, D. B., Blake, M., & Pendleton, N. (2016). Sexual health and well-being among older men and women in England: Findings from the English longitudinal study of ageing. Archives of Sexual Behavior, 45(1), 133–144.
- 4Hendrickx L, Gijs L, & Enzlin P. (2015) Age-related prevalence rates of sexual difficulties, sexual dysfunctions, and sexual distress in heterosexual women: Results from an online survey in Flanders. Journal of Sex Medecine, 12(2):424–35. pmid:25345486
- 5 a b c d e f g h i j Lafortune, D., Girard, M., Dussault, É., Philibert, M., Hébert, M., Boislard, M.-A., Goyette, M., & Godbout, N. (2023). Who seeks sex therapy? Sexual dysfunction prevalence and correlates, and help-seeking among clinical and community samples. PLOS One, 18(3), e0282618.
- 6Flynn, K. E., Lin, L., Bruner, D. W., Cyranowski, J. M., Hahn, E. A., Jeffery, D. D., Reese, J. B., Reeve, B. B., Shelby, R. A., & Weinfurt, K. P. (2016). Sexual satisfaction and the importance of sexual health to quality of life throughout the life course of U.S. adults. The Journal of Sexual Medicine, 13(11), 1642–1650. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jsxm.2016.08.011
- 7Nappi, R. E., Cucinella, L., Martella, S., Rossi, M., Tiranini, L., & Martini, E. (2016). Female sexual dysfunction (FSD): Prevalence and impact on quality of life (QOL). Maturitas, 94, 87–91. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.maturitas.2016.09.013
- 8Christensen B.S., Grønbæk, M., Osler, M., Pedersen, B. V., Graugaard, C., & Frisch, M. (2011). Associations between physical and mental health problems and sexual dysfunctions in sexually active danes. The Journal of Sexual Medicine, 8(7), 1890–1902. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1743-6109.2010.02145.x
- 9 a b Briedite, I., Ancane, G., Ancans, A., & Erts, R. (2013). Insufficient assessment of sexual dysfunction: A problem in gynecological practice. Medicina, 49(7), 315–320.
