special subjects
Overview of Sexuality
Role of the health care professional
Well-informed health care professionals can offer sensitive, disciplined advice on sexuality and should not miss opportunities for helpful intervention. Behaviors that place patients at risk of sexually transmitted illnesses or sexual violence must be addressed. Clinicians should discuss sexuality with their patients so that they can identify and address sexual issues, including sexual dysfunction (see Overview of Male Sexual Function and Dysfunction and Sexuality and sexual expression are often ignored in older adults (see Intimacy and Older Adults ), including those who are institutionalized, even though sexual concerns are often important in this phase of life ( Health care professionals should be encouraged to participate in seminars/webinars to be up-to-date on sexuality and sexual dysfunction. If a health care professional does not have the skill set to manage certain patients, instead of providing incorrect management, clinicians should make an appropriate referral. 