Men's expectations of physicians in sexual health concerns

Abstract

This study assessed 62 men for their expectations of primary care physicians in attending to sexual health concerns. The physician was the professional most preferred for consultation regarding sexual concerns, and men look for qualities of professionalism, empathy, trust, and comfort in their physician. While 97% of the men reported prior sexual concerns, only 19% had discussed these issues with their doctor. Most were hesitant, but wanted to deal with sex problems. They preferred that the physician initiate the discussion. These findings suggest an under-utilization of sexual health care by men and support the role of the primary care physician as an important sexual health provider.