Which sexual health professional should I see?
This blog post is a condensed version of a more complete write-up about the topic, available at https://www.femalesexualproblems.ca/where-do-i-go-for-help-for-female-sexual-dysfunction/
Sexual health professional options
Seeking help for female sexual problems can be overwhelming due to the numerous options available. However, it’s important to understand the benefits and risks associated with each choice. One less scary (but possibly less effective) starting point is to reach out to sex-positive friends or family who can provide accurate information, helpful resources, or recommendations for sex-positive healthcare providers. Sexual health clinics may also offer valuable guidance or referrals to resources and healthcare professionals specializing in sexual issues.
Family doctors, general practitioners, and primary care physicians can personally assist with sexual function complaints and provide referrals to appropriate specialists if necessary. Consulting with a doctor is essential, as certain specialists may require a referral for specific tests, treatments, or visits to out-of-province providers. Alberta Health‘s website offers general information on sexual problems in women and suggests seeking help from family doctors, gynecologists, sex therapists, psychologists, or urologists.
How to choose the right sexual health professional
To choose the right professional, it’s important to identify whether the problem is physical or mental and determine the specific type of help required. Dr. Lindsey Doe’s recommendations on selecting a professional include understanding the different professions involved in sexual health and exploring their respective roles. Some examples of professionals you could see are sex coaches, relationship therapists, psychologists, physical therapists, gynecologists, urologists, and sexual medicine specialists. While there are sexual health professionals who care for the vagina (because of women’s role in childbearing), there is currently no specific professional tasked with caring for the clitoris (unlike urologists who care for the penis). Don’t get discouraged. There are professionals out there; you just have to find them.
Once the type of professional needed is identified, I recommend creating a list of specific professionals in that field. Researching professionals through directories or online platforms can help find suitable candidates. For instance, the Alberta Referral Directory can provide a list of professionals based on keywords or specific professions related to sexual health issues. The full version of this blog post further provides recommendations for pelvic floor physiotherapists, sex therapists, gynecologists, urologists, and sexual medicine specialists in various locations across Alberta.
Avoiding pitfalls and wasting time/money
Reading reviews about professionals and conducting interviews or consultations can help assess their suitability. Reviews on business webpages and independent platforms like RateMDs.com provide valuable insights. During interviews, it’s important to ask about their availability, experience, approach, and willingness to collaborate or make referrals if necessary. Understanding the cost, insurance acceptance, payment plans, or sliding scale options is also essential.
While seeking help, caution should be exercised when consulting professionals whose expertise does not specifically address sexual concerns. Some counsellors or religious advisors may lack adequate education in sex therapy or rely on misinformation. It’s crucial to prioritize specialists who have knowledge and experience in sexual health.
Sexual health professionals in Alberta and specific cultures
Although Alberta Health provides sexual and reproductive health services, they may not cater specifically to female sexual dysfunction (FSD). Most of these services focus on pregnancy and STI prevention. Alberta is incredibly lucky to have Dr. Stephanie Hart at the Foothills Sexual Function Clinic. Alternative options outside Alberta, such as the BC Centre for Sexual Medicine or San Diego Sexual Medicine, may be considered if local resources are insufficient. For help from professionals within some specific cultures (e.g., Christian, post-Christian, Indigenous, Jewish, LDS, Muslim), check out the full write-up.
In conclusion, seeking help for female sexual problems requires careful consideration of various options and professionals. It’s important to choose a professional who specializes in the specific area of concern and aligns with personal needs and values. By following the recommended steps and being aware of potential pitfalls, individuals can navigate the process effectively and find the appropriate support for their sexual health concerns.
Check out What to Do When Sex Doesn’t Feel Right for the full-write-up.
