einstein (São Paulo). 01/Jan/2015;13(1):vii-viii.

Teaching sexuality in Brazilian medical schools

DOI: 10.1590/S1679-45082015ED3306

To include training in sexual medicine into the curricula of medical schools is justified because of the association between sexuality and health, which is commonly part of the discussion of practice of the medicine. This association is observed by the importance given to sexuality in interpersonal relationships and quality of life, and, also by the prevalence of sexual dysfunctions in the population. In addition, high expectations exist regarding training in sexual health for physicians, including the assistance for vulnerable groups such as lesbian, gays, bisexuals, and transgender individuals.^(,)

Despite this current scenario of demands and expectations, several barriers are pointed out for adequate assistance in sexual health. Such barriers have been discussed for long-time and they are related with discomfort of professionals because of patients’ sexual complaints along with beliefs about normative heterosexuality that reinforces vulnerabilities. The lack of communication ability to collect sexual anamnesis and the unknown intersection between sexuality and health are also highlighted factors. In this context recommendations are reinforced concerning improvements needed for teaching sexuality in medical schools.⁽⁾

[…]