Sexual dysfunction service provision in UK genitourinary medicine clinics in 2007

Abstract

Sexual difficulties are common in people attending genitourinary (GU) medicine/HIV services and many would like professional help. Here, we report the results of the BASHH Special Interest Group in Sexual Dysfunction (SD) survey on the level and type of SD service provision within UK GU medicine services in 2007. Many clinicians expressed an interest in SD, however, only 25% of GU medicine clinics provide a designated SD service. Marked regional variation in the level of service provision was highlighted. Lack of resources and other pressures on GU medicine services, notably 48-h access, are barriers to SD service development. In spite of these constraints, we argue that GU medicine clinics are a highly appropriate place to treat SD.