Question

As a nurse what suggestions would you give a patient concerned about their sexual functioning.

Answer 1

Firstly, the choice of words and communication should make a patient feel comfortable.

A person should have realistic expectations from themselves and their partner. They should be on the same page, i.e. have ambiguous terms. They should talk to each other about problems and not feel shy.

Orgasm should not be thought of as sole purpose of the act. This type of thinking is unrealistic and can be difficult to achieve.

Libido is as per to the person, don't force it.

Try to experiment and look for things that increase your libido, i.e. look for your turn ons and turn offs.

Lifestyle choices matter a lot and affect sexual functioning. This is a self discovery. Look out for things that decrease your sexual functioning like smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, lack of physical activity, too much masturbation etc.

Partner's consent matters a lot. It won't be pleasurable if forced.