Sexual Dysfunction Following Injury:
Time for Enlightenment and Understanding

SUGGESTIONS

The only way that your doctor is going to have the information about your situation following injury is if it is provided by you, or someone on your behalf. Since the doctor may not inquire about it, as a part of the history, and since it is important to provide complete information, the following is suggested. It is suggested that you actually make a copy of this form, fill it out, and hand it to your doctor at your next appointment to start the conversation that may lead to a more fulfilling life for you and your partner.

Dear Dr. _________:

Since my injury, I have noticed a change in my sexual functioning, and I am providing you with this information, and any other information that you might need to evaluate my situation. Can you help me, or refer me to a doctor or health care provider who could help me with this change in my sexual functioning?

Then, provide in that same letter, the following information:

1. A brief description of your sexual pattern in the year before injury;

2. A description of your sexual pattern since the injury;

3. An honest appraisal as to your desire for sex since the injury;

4. How has the sexual situation been handled between you and your partner since the injury, in terms of any discussion;

5. List all of your medications that you have been on since the injury, and ask "could any of these be affecting my sexual function?"

6. Are there any specialists to whom you could refer me for evaluation of my sexual dysfunction, and treatment;

7. Is there any information that I can provide to you, at this appointment, or at the next appointment, to help you in evaluating, diagnosing, and treating my condition?

Any other information that you think would be helpful for the doctor should be written down and given to the doctor.

This should help break the ice about any discussion of sexual dysfunction.

Contents
Introduction
Purpose
The Problem
Discussion of Medical Literature
Suggestions
Dedication
About the Author