Appendix 2

Taking a psychosexual history

When taking a psychosexual history, it is important to offer a chaperone and ask the patient about:*

• Personal history:
  • At what age did you reach puberty/menarche?
  • What was your parent’s attitude toward sexual matters?
  • How did you attain sexual information?
  • What is your sexual orientation?
• Relationships and marital history:
  • At what age did you have your first sexual relationship?
  • How long was your longest relationship? What were some of the reasons for break ups? Any extramarital affairs?
  • Do you practice safe sex? Has that always been the case? Have you had any sexually transmitted infections?
  • Are you currently in a relationship? Any problems? Is there any inconsistency between your partner’s and your sexual desire? How does that affect you? Are you and your partner committed to each other? How would you describe the communication in your relationship?
  • Do you have children? Have you had any abortions? Are you in contact with your children?
  • Do you have any sexual difficulties? Have you noticed a change in desire? Do you know how to achieve orgasm? Can you achieve orgasm and do you enjoy having sexual relations with your partner?
  • Do you have any problems with penetration (vaginismus) and pain during intercourse?
  • Do you use any street drugs?
  • Are you on any regular medications?
  • Have you ever been hurt in any way? Any violence in any of your relationships?
  • Do you have a history of depression, anxiety or other mental health concerns, including eating disorders?

*Adapted with permission from the Royal College of Psychiatrists (UK) for use in the primary care setting.