Sexual problems and associated help-seeking behavior patterns: results of a population-based survey in France

Centre Etude et de Traitement de la Pathologie de l’Appareil Reproducteur et de la Psychosomatique (ETPARP). Lille, France Pfizer Inc. New York. New York, USA Fundação Oswaldo Cruz. Centro de Pesquisas Gonçalo Moniz. Unidade de Epidemiologia e Bioestatística. Salvador, BA, Brasil Fundação Oswaldo Cruz. Centro de Pesquisas Gonçalo Moniz. Unidade de Epidemiologia e Bioestatística. Salvador, BA, Brasil Bristol Urological Institute. Southmead Hospital. Bristol, UK Fundação Oswaldo Cruz. Centro de Pesquisas Gonçalo Moniz. Unidade de Epidemiologia e Bioestatística. Salvador, BA, Brasil Global Study of Sexual Attitudes and Behaviours (GSSAB) Investigators’ Group OBJECTIVES: To report the sexual activity, the prevalence of sexual problems and related help-seeking behavior among adults in France. METHODS: A telephone survey was conducted in 2001 and 2002. Interviews were based on a standardized questionnaire including demographic details, overall health, relationships, and sexual behaviors, attitudes and beliefs. RESULTS: A total of 1500 individuals (750 men, 750 women) aged 40 to 80 years completed the survey. Eighty-one percent of men and 65% of women had engaged in sexual intercourse during the 12 months preceding the interview. Premature ejaculation (16%) and erectile dysfunction (15%) were the most frequently reported sexual problems among men. Lack of sexual interest (21%) and a lack of sexual pleasure (18%) were the most frequently reported ones among women. Only 10% of men and 8% of women had been asked by a doctor about possible sexual problems during a routine visit in the last 3 years. CONCLUSIONS: Many middle aged and older men and women in France report continued sexual interest and activity. Although a number of sexual problems are seen in this population, only a minority of individuals seek medical help for these disorders. This is largely due to believing that the problem is not serious, not being bothered by the problem, and/or a lack of awareness of available treatments