Prevalence of sexual dysfunction in new heterosexual attenders at a central London genitourinary medicine clinic in 1998

David Goldmeier¹, Ali Judd² and Kate Schroeder¹

¹ St Mary's Hospital, London W2 1NY
² Department of Social Science and Medicine, Imperial College School of Medicine, London W2 1PG

Correspondence to:
Dr Goldmeier, St Mary's Hospital, Jefferiss Wing, London W2 1NY david{at}goldmeier.freeserve.co.uk

Objective: To determine the prevalence of sexual dysfunction and dissatisfaction (SD) among new heterosexual attendees at a central London genitourinary medicine (GUM) clinic.

Methods: Consecutive new attendees seen by a single clinician were asked a probe question about SD in the previous year. A clinical interview followed a positive response to the probe question. Demographic information was obtained using standard clinic forms.

Results: 37% of 103 men and 20% of 100 women participants gave positive responses, and 24% of the men and 12% of the women wanted treatment for their problems.

Conclusions: Our results indicate a relatively high rate of SD in new GUM clinic attendees that is not currently being detected or managed. SD may lead to psychological problems, which can be reversed with appropriate treatment. The financial implications of such treatment are discussed.

Key Words: genitourinary medicine clinic; sexual dysfunction; London

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