Help-seeking behaviour for sexual problems: the Global Study of Sexual Attitudes and Behaviors

TLDR

The study reports help‑seeking behaviours for sexual problems among adults aged 40‑80. The Global Study of Sexual Attitudes and Behaviors surveyed 27,500 adults aged 40‑80 across multiple countries using a standardized questionnaire. Despite nearly half of sexually active participants reporting problems, fewer than 19% sought medical help, most relied on partners, and only 9% were asked by doctors, indicating low help‑seeking overall.

Abstract

The Global Study of Sexual Attitudes and Behaviors (GSSAB) investigated various aspects of sex and relationships among 27,500 men and women aged 40-80 years. Here, we report help-seeking behaviours for sexual problems in this population. A questionnaire was administered using the accepted survey method in each country. Although almost half of all sexually active respondents had experienced at least one sexual problem, less than 19% of them (18.0% of men and 18.8% of women) had attempted to seek medical help for their problem(s). The most frequent action taken by men and women was to talk to their partner (39%). Only 9% of men and women had been asked about their sexual health by a doctor in a routine visit during the past 3 years. Although sexual problems are highly prevalent, few men and women seek medical help for these problems. Overall, men and women show similar help-seeking behaviours.