Sexual Health Literacy Confidence Among Urology Resident Physicians

Abstract

Abstract Introduction: Despite the importance of sexual health, physicians may not be adequately trained and equipped to diagnose and treat sexual dysfunction. It is crucial that urologists are trained to ask detailed questions about sexual health, counsel on healthy sexual habits, and appropriately identify and treat sexual dysfunction. Objective: To determine the level of comfort among urology residents in taking a comprehensive sexual health history, identifying sexual dysfunction, and treating patients of various gender identities and sexual orientations. Methods: An anonymous electronic survey was distributed to current urology residents in the United States. The survey contained five demographic questions and twenty-three questions tied to previously established sexual health competency domains. Results: A total of 52 urology residents participated with post-graduate years ranging from one to six. 46.3% reported having any formal sex education during residency. 27% felt comfortable answering questions about anal stimulation devices and 35% felt comfortable answering questions about vaginoclitoral stimulation devices. Greater than 94% of residents felt “very comfortable” or “somewhat comfortable” with describing cisgender male sexual dysfunction and performing a physical exam for a cisgender male with sexual dysfunction, but 59% felt the same towards cisgender female sexual dysfunction. When counseling transgender men or women on sexual practices, therapies, or surgeries, 29% felt comfortable. Conclusion: There are knowledge gaps in sexual health literacy confidence among urology residents surveyed. Women and sexual and gender minority patients may be at higher risk. Sexual health education optimization during urology residency has the potential to promote improved understanding of sexual health and evaluation and management of sexual dysfunction in general.