Most people experience some difficulty in their sex life at one time or another. Relationships can go through ups and downs that affect how partners relate to one another sexually. Many are able to work together to sort these problems out.
For some, the difficulties are causing permanent distress and unhappiness. When this happens it is best to seek help early. Your GP would be able to advise on who would be the best person to help.
- Your GP or Practice nurse can often help sort out problems
- Psychosexual doctor working in a psychosexual medicine clinic
- Relationship counsellor
- Other professional such as psychologist, psychiatrist or therapists.
What happens in a psychosexual medicine clinic?
You will have the opportunity to talk about your difficulty. The doctor will help you to explore the nature of the problem, by looking at how your body and your feelings are affecting your sexual responses. Sometimes a physical examination can help the doctor understand your problem.
What sort of problems can a psychosexual doctor help?
In men:
- Difficulty getting or maintaining an erection
- Loss of interest in sex
- Problems with ejaculation — where it happens too quickly, slowly or not at all.
In women:
- Loss of interest in sex
- Difficulty becoming aroused or achieving orgasm
- Painful sex
- Inability to have penetrative sex
There are some sexual problems that are not generally treated by IPM doctors
- Where the sexual problem is part of a larger overall problem - e.g. psychiatric illness
- Illegal sexual behaviours such as paedophilia
- Gender dysphoria - where someone believes they have been born the wrong sex.
Do I need to bring my partner to the clinic?
Psychosexual doctors usually see the person wanting to discuss the problem. It is not necessary to bring your partner. However both partners are welcome if they wish to attend.
How can I find a psychosexual medicine clinic?
- Your GP will be able to advise and refer
- Many local family planning services run a psychosexual medicine clinic. You should be able to self-refer.
- The IPM has a list of accredited doctors who take NHS and private referrals. If you would like a list of IPM accredited doctors in your area you can request one from this page.
