PSYCHOSEXUAL GYNECOLOGY

The psychosexual health of the female patient not only is affected by her overall gynecologic well-being but also may be greatly influenced by cultural myths and attitudes, psychological health, and social support. For primary care physicians to incorporate the psychosexual issues of a woman into her overall medical care, there must exist a sensitivity to the patient's needs, an atmosphere for open discussion regarding sexual and psychological concerns, an office staff to provide appropriate medical support, and the availability of experienced specialists in eases in which referral is necessary. The quality of the physician-patient interaction as well as the degree of empathy shown to women with gynecologic problems may exacerbate or improve psychosexual outcomes.