Is sexual health considered in specialized medical care? – Situation of sexual health services at Turku University Central Hospital in 2022

Background Problems regarding sexual health are common, and their neglect can result in significant costs and strain on healthcare systems. This study aimed to evaluate the provision of sexual health services at Turku University Hospital (Tyks).

Methods A Webropol-based questionnaire was sent to the head nurses of Tyks clinics. The survey included 18 questions regarding the availability of sexual health services, patient treatment and referral pathways for sexual health issues, resources for sexual counseling, and staff training and supervision related to sexual health. Responses were received from 23 clinics.

Results The approach to sexual health services varied across clinics. While most of the clinics reported reasons and symptoms for referring patients to sexual counseling, not all had clear protocols for additional health care services for patients with sexual health concerns.

Conclusions Sexual health needs exist across multiple specialties, but its integration into routine patient care remains incomplete. Enhancing education in sexual medicine and developing more standardized care pathways are critical for effectively and cost-efficiently addressing sexual health problems.

Pihla Kultti, Sanna-Mari Manninen, Katja Kero