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Sexual problems and associated help‐seeking behavior patterns: Results of a population‐based survey in France
Author(s) -
Buvat Jacques,
Glasser Dale,
Neves Raimundo Celestino Silva,
Duarte Fernanda Gross,
Gingell Clive,
Moreira Jr Edson Duarte
Publication year - 2009
Publication title -
international journal of urology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.172
H-Index - 67
eISSN - 1442-2042
pISSN - 0919-8172
DOI - 10.1111/j.1442-2042.2009.02316.x
Subject(s) - premature ejaculation , medicine , sexual intercourse , pleasure , population , reproductive health , sexual behavior , human sexuality , erectile dysfunction , demography , clinical psychology , psychiatry , gerontology , psychology , environmental health , gender studies , neuroscience , sociology , psychoanalysis
Objectives: To report the sexual activity, the prevalence of sexual problems and related help‐seeking behavior among adults in France. Methods: A telephone survey was conducted in 2001 and 2002. Interviews were based on a standardized questionnaire including demographic details, overall health, relationships, and sexual behaviors, attitudes and beliefs. Results: A total of 1500 individuals (750 men, 750 women) aged 40 to 80 years completed the survey. Eighty‐one percent of men and 65% of women had engaged in sexual intercourse during the 12 months preceding the interview. Premature ejaculation (16%) and erectile dysfunction (15%) were the most frequently reported sexual problems among men. Lack of sexual interest (21%) and a lack of sexual pleasure (18%) were the most frequently reported ones among women. Only 10% of men and 8% of women had been asked by a doctor about possible sexual problems during a routine visit in the last 3 years. Conclusions: Many middle aged and older men and women in France report continued sexual interest and activity. Although a number of sexual problems are seen in this population, only a minority of individuals seek medical help for these disorders. This is largely due to believing that the problem is not serious, not being bothered by the problem, and/or a lack of awareness of available treatments.