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There are many ways to do it. There is only one way to do it safely. Use a condom.

Talking to Your Doctor about Sex

August 25, 2009

One of the physicians who participated in my doctoral research study on patient sexuality education said there was never a reason to discuss sexuality with his patients. He is an anesthesiologist.

If his duties are limited to putting people to sleep for surgery, he’s right. But many anesthesiologists also treat patients with chronic pain, and these patients’ sexual desire and activity should be discussed.

Sex is good for your health, whether you engage it in by yourself or with a partner. An orgasm will increase blood circulation, boost the hormones that make you feel good, temporarily relieve pain, exercise your muscles, and help you sleep. But has any doctor ever mentioned these great benefits to you?

Odds are good that at some point in your life, you’ll need to discuss a medication, treatment or surgical option with your physician. According to the early results of my study, your physician will be too pressed for time to do more than discuss your primary complaint. It will be up to you to ask about the possible sexual side effects of your treatment and to demand that your concerns are addressed.

You and your physician may decide that the sexual side effects pale in comparison to the benefits you’ll gain by treatment. Then again, you might be able to try alternative treatments with fewer known side effects.

If you’re embarrassed to bring up the subject, hand this post to your physician. It’ll break the ice and help you start communicating more effectively about your sexual health.

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Written by MDavis · Filed Under Sex, Honestly

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