Sex and relationships are an important part of people’s lives and sexual problems can have a big impact on overall well-being and happiness.
Sexual difficulties are common and can affect people at any stage of their lives. Despite this it can be difficult for people to talk about sexual problems. Staff working at psychosexual services are experienced in dealing with these sensitive issues.
Reliable information about male and female sexual difficulties can be found here:
Sexual Advice Association
Male sexual problems
Female sexual problems
Where to go
Your GP can help if problems such as erectile difficulties are caused by medical conditions such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease or nerve damage, that can sometimes be improved by treating the underlying condition.
Psychosexual therapy locally is provided by Plymouth Options. The psychosexual therapist has undertaken specialist training which makes them knowledgeable and comfortable talking about sex, and able to treat all kinds of sexual difficulties such as:
- Erectile difficulties
- Painful sex
- Orgasmic difficulties
- Sexual arousal disorder
- Lack of sexual desire
- Premature ejaculation
- Sexual aversion / phobia
- Delayed ejaculation
- Lack of sexual enjoyment
- Inability to allow penetrative sex
You can be referred to this service by your GP or self-refer.
Other providers
Relate if outside Plymouth area (01752 213131) – fees payable.
British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) or College of Sexual and Relationship Therapists (COSRT) for private psychotherapy
Recommended books:
‘New Male Sexuality’ – Bernie Zilbergeld. Published by BANTAM ISBN 0-553-38042-7.
This book contains good, accurate, easy to read information about men and sex, dispelling common myths.
‘The V Book’ – Elizabeth Stewart and Paula Spencer. Published by PIATKUS ISBN 0-74992-314-8.
This book fully and frankly explains basic anatomy, analyses lifestyle issues and provides a much needed guide to common health and sexual problems and how to avoid them.
‘Sex Matters for Women’ – Sallie Foley, Sally Kope and Dennis Sugrue. Published by GUILDFORD PRESS ISBN 1-57230-641-6.
A comprehensive guide to female sexuality, written in clear and comprehensive style.