Male sexual dysfunction: diagnosis and treatment from a sexological and interdisciplinary perspective

Abstract

Background: Among all types of sexual disturbance in men, disturbances of sexual function are the most important in clinical practice. These are classified by the segment of the sexual reaction cycle in which they arise (appetence, arousal, orgasm, and resolution). Partial functional impairment must be distinguished from dysfunction causing significant suffering and requiring treatment.

Methods: The authors' clinical experience is supplemented with a selective review of the literature on sexual dysfunction, its association with underlying diseases, and its impact on sexual and relational satisfaction.

Results: The sexual history (including the partner's sexual history, as far as this can be obtained) is of prime importance in the diagnostic evaluation of sexual disturbances. This evaluation must take the multidimensionality and multiple functions of human sexuality into account. Chronic frustration of the fundamental psychosocial needs for acceptance, closeness, and security is a very important factor that has been neglected until now by the prevailing conceptions of the etiology and pathogenesis of sexual disturbances. Their treatment involves a combination of elements from sexual medicine and psychotherapy, along with somatic medical and pharmacotherapeutic intervention, if needed. The goal of syndyastic sex therapy, a further development of the previous therapies, is to fulfill these fundamental needs and thereby to improve the patient's sexual function and deepen his satisfaction with the relationship in its entirety.

Conclusions: It is essential to understand the different types of sexual disturbance in their biopsychosocial context as well as the significance of sexuality for the individual, and for the couple, with respect to reproduction, sexual pleasure, and bonding. Sexual disturbances are common, and patients therefore expect their physicians to be proficient in sexual medicine. The coverage of this subject in both undergraduate and postgraduate medical education in Germany needs to be improved.

Keywords: basic psychosocial needs; couples therapy; sexual dysfunction; sexual history; sexual medicine.

Figure

Erectile dysfunction secondary to disorders and/or their treatment