Human Sexuality

Sexual abuse and assault are major public health problems that affect many people from all walks of life, including people of all ages and genders, but it is more prevalent in women and girls, with reports of up to 1 in 3 experiencing sexual assault at some time in their life. In addition to psychological consequences, sexual assault can result in unintended pregnancy, STIs, and physical injury. Management includes proper examination, testing, reporting, and psychological support.

Male sexual dysfunction is any disorder that interferes with the male sexual response cycle and includes desire disorders, erectile disorders, and ejaculatory disorders. Sexual dysfunction has a varied etiology and may be due to psychological causes, endocrine diseases, neurogenic dysfunction, chronic medical illness, or medication/substance abuse. These disorders often cause significant distress to the patient and sexual partner. Treatment options include psychotherapy, physical therapy, and pharmacotherapy based on the causes of dysfunction.

Sexual physiology and development begin in early childhood and represent a complex process of events that lead to the final development of sexual orientation and behavior. Sexual behavior and interactions include several changes that are quite different between males and females.

Female sexual dysfunction represents a variety of disorders in any part of the sexual response cycle, including desire disorders, arousal disorders, orgasmic disorders, and pain disorders. The condition may result from stresses and interpersonal conflicts as well as physical illness or medication/substance use. These disorders cause significant distress to the patient and her partner. Treatment options include psychotherapy, physical therapy, and pharmacotherapy.