Sex Therapy

What is sex therapy?

Sex therapy is specialized treatment for sexual problems. Sex is usually a source of great pleasure for most couples. Couples often believe that good sex always happens. However, sexual problems are very common. When a sexual problem occurs, it can cause a lot of stress.

What problems can sex therapy help?

There are many things that can interfere with a couple's sexual relationship:

Partners may worry about their performance, and how often they have sex.
Levels of sexual desire may be different for each partner, and may change based on what is going on in each person's life. Stress at work, school, or home can affect sexual desire.
There may be disagreement about what sexual practices are acceptable or enjoyable.

Other problems that may lower sexual satisfaction include:

trouble getting and keeping an erection
premature ejaculation
lack of sexual desire
lack of satisfaction from sexual activity
trouble reaching orgasm.

Alcoholism, drug abuse, or heavy smoking can also affect sexual performance.

How does sex therapy work?

Sex therapy is based on the beliefs that sex is healthy and that relationships should be meaningful. Sex therapists believe sexual skills are learned, and that learning more about sex may help correct some sexual problems. The therapy is short, usually 10 to 20 sessions. Between sessions you may be given homework assignments. These assignments may include exercises involving communication or touching. The goal is to help couples improve their intimate relationship.

How do I find a therapist who can do this therapy?

Before seeing a sex therapist, see your health care provider. Your provider can check for medical problems that may be causing the sexual problem. Medical problems that interfere with sexual satisfaction include:

diabetes
blood pressure that is out of control
heart disease
chronic pain
certain types of surgery
certain medicines
chronic diseases like kidney or liver failure
hormonal imbalances.

Surgery of or near reproductive-urinary system or abdomen may damage nerves, while mastectomy may cause poor self-image. If you think you have a sexual satisfaction problem related to a surgery, talk to your provider.

Your primary care provider, gynecologist, or urologist may be able to refer you to a qualified sex therapist. The State Board of Mental Health in any state can refer you to specialists who treat sexual problems.

Most states do not have laws that regulate sex therapists. A sex therapist should be a mental health care provider such as a psychiatrist, social worker, marriage or family therapist, or psychologist who has special training in sexual problems.

Most sexual problems can be treated. The first step is to accept that there is a problem, and then get the needed help.

Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.

HIA File BHV3359F.HTM Release 9.0/2006