1 in 6 feel that their health affects their sex life, but few seek help

A new study, published in The Lancet as part of the third National Survey of Sexual Attitudes and Lifestyles (Natsal) survey, systematically assesses the association between individuals' general health and their sex lives, finding that close to one in six (17%) of men and women in Britain say that their health affects their sex life. This proportion rises to three fifths (60%) among men and women who say they are in bad health. The new findings show the extent to which ill-health is linked to whether people have sex, as well as satisfaction with their sex lives. Additionally, the research shows that only a quarter of men (24%) and under a fifth of women (18%) who say that ill-health affected their sex life in the past year sought help from a health professional, usually a GP. The authors of the study suggest that health professionals should consider giving greater attention to providing appropriate advice on patients' sex lives as part of their wider health. Many patients with chronic ill-health are well aware of an effect of their health on their sex lives, but most do not seek help from health professionals. This suggests a need to raise awareness, improve guidance, and build communication skills among health professionals in talking to patients.