Patient Sexuality
Discussing sexuality is often avoided due to the sensitive, personal nature of the subject. However, it is important to acknowledge sexuality as an integral part of life.
Sexuality plays an important role in how we form intimate relationships and how we feel about ourselves as a man or a woman. Touching, kissing, caressing and sexual intercourse are all aspects of sexuality, as are emotional intimacy, self image and self esteem. Illness, genetic conditions and trauma can all greatly impact a person's sexuality. There are resources available to assist with the physical and emotional consequences of these problems. You do not need to struggle alone in this important area of your life.
If you have questions about sexuality, do not be afraid to talk to your doctor or other health care team member. Your health care professionals understand the impact your condition and its treatments can have on sexuality.
To learn more about sexuality as it relates to your condition/illness, visit with your health care provider and explore the other pages in this section.
Links and Resources
Andrology
Andrology has information regarding male sexuality issues – such as impotence, infertility, men’s health, male menopause, and male sexual disorders.
Cleveland Clinic
Cleveland Clinic has many different articles with patient information regarding sexuality. To find, enter “sexuality” in the search term box.
CNN
CNN has a variety of information related to sexuality.
Discovery Health
Discovery Health has a variety of information related to sexuality, including anatomy, menopause, STDs, genitourinary or gynecologic cancers.
Kinsey Institute
Kinsey Institute is dedicated to providing sexuality resource materials, especially to those who have limited access to library. In addition, there is an online book The International Encyclopedia of Sexuality that lists sexuality customs and beliefs from more than 60 countries.
Mayo Clinic
Mayo Clinic offers a variety of sexuality topics. To access this information, click on the search box and type “sexuality”.
United Ostomy Association, Inc.
The United Ostomy Association is a health organization providing education, information, support, and advocacy for people who have had or will have intestinal or urinary diversions. There are fact sheets related to ostomies, as well as a glossary and various topics that address body image, self esteem, equipment, garments.
Up to Date
Up to Date has information regarding sexuality problems for men, women, and adolescents, as well as information on related problems.
