The aging process has a well-known impact on sexual functioning due to menopause and andropause. Illness or injury can also impact a person’s relationships and sexuality. I specialize in helping patients in these situations recover intimacy and reconnect with themselves and their partners.

People experiencing sexual challenges and changes due to illness, injury or treatment often suffer silently with no one to talk to about this part of their lives. Research done by Boswell and Dizon (2015) shows that sexual concerns during and after breast cancer treatment cause great distress to patients. With many types of cancer, the side effects of medication (e.g. hair loss) or surgery (e.g. scarring) affect body image and self-esteem. Heart disease, high cholesterol and diabetes can also impact sexual performance. Any illness or medication that affects vascular health, nerve function or mental health may also affect sexual function and sexual pleasure.

It is vital for patients to receive good mental health care, including specialized treatment to address relationship and sexual health challenges, as they cope with illness and recover from it. But you may not have the time or ability to help patients with this important part of their lives.

I encourage you to reach out to me if you would like more information for your practice and your patients, or if you have questions about referring patients to Renaissance Clinical Services for treatment.