Sexual dysfunctions in the experience of a clinical sexology center in Italy

Objective The main purpose of this study is to explore sexual dysfunctions in a sample of patients in an institute of clinical sexology. Design and Method This study analyses the clinical reports of a sample of 402 patients, 194 women and 208 men, ages 17-70 years (M=34.83,SD=8.84), single and coupled, attending a clinical sexology center in Italy from 2004 to 2007. The sample was divided into groups by sex and by current situation (single and coupled). The valuation methods to classify sexual dysfunctions are referred to DSM IV-TR. Descriptive analyses and correlations were conducted. Results The majority of singles, both men and women, attend the center for psychological and relationship problems. As for coupled patients, men present ED, PE and desire disorder; while women present vaginismus and desire disorder. The most common sexual dysfunctions in single and coupled men are ED and PE while in women are vaginismus, desire and orgasmic disorders. Moreover, psychological problems concern relationships, anxiety and corporeal inadequacy. Most women with vaginismus have partners affected by erectile dysfunction and desire disorders, while erectile dysfunction in men is mostly correlated with desire and orgasmic disorders in women. Conclusions According to recent studies, the results showed a strong correlation between sexual, psychological and social problems. This association confirms the need to deal with sexual problems following an integrated approach and suggests that in the management of sexual dysfunction we take into more consideration coupled rather than single persons. Further research is required.