Diagnosing and treating female sexual dysfunction: a survey of the perspectives of obstetricians and gynaecologists

Abstract

Background Female sexual dysfunction is highly prevalent and it has a major effect on quality of life. However, responding to this healthcare need is challenging for physicians due to limited time, insecurities about how and what to ask, and lack of knowledge of therapy options. In Germany, additional barriers such as poor training during residency, lack of sexual therapists, and limited options for continuing education result in an under-diagnosis and under-treatment of female sexual dysfunction. This study aims to better understand the perspectives of German obstetricians and gynaecologists (OB/GYNs) in terms of diagnosing and treating patients with female sexual dysfunction. Methods: In November 2014 all Bavarian-based OB/GYNs working in outpatient care were sent a 23-item questionnaire by mail. A reminder was sent 4 weeks later. A non-response survey was also performed. Results: Out of 1291 distributed questionnaires, 235 were completed and returned (18%). The greatest challenges to OB/GYNs caring for women with sexual dysfunction were: (1) long waiting times for referrals; (2) too little time with patients; and (3) insufficient training during residency. Only one out of five OB/GYNs brought up the topic of sexual function routinely; initiating a conversation about sexual function was significantly associated with perceived communication skills (P = 0.001) and perceived medical competence (P = 0.008). Conclusions: There are several barriers to diagnosing and treating female sexual dysfunction in a German outpatient setting. Further surveys of patients, psychologists, therapists and health insurance providers are needed to provide more perspectives on this particular health issue.