Gender Disparity in Sexual Dysfunction Management in Primary Care

Sexual dysfunction is a common yet often under-addressed health concern affecting a significant portion of the adult population, impacting quality of life and relationships. While its prevalence is well-documented, there has been a persistent knowledge gap regarding potential differences in how primary care providers manage these conditions based on patient gender. This study specifically addresses whether male and female patients receive equitable management for sexual dysfunction in primary care settings.

Of the 1,200 patient encounters reviewed, 150 (12.5%) involved a complaint of sexual dysfunction. A significant disparity in management was observed: male patients were 2.5 times more likely to receive a prescription for sexual dysfunction medication than female patients (60% of male cases vs. 24% of female cases). Furthermore, referrals to specialists (e.g., urology, endocrinology) occurred in 35% of male cases but only 15% of female cases (p<0.001). Conversely, female patients were 1.8 times more likely to receive no specific intervention or referral, or only general counseling, compared to males (45% vs. 25%). The study revealed a profound gender gap, with male patients receiving active pharmacological management or specialist referrals 2.5 times more frequently than female patients for similar sexual dysfunction complaints.