Using case scenarios and role plays to explore issues of human sexuality.

INTRODUCTION

Doctors and medical students should know what to ask patients, should do so in a sensitive and caring manner and convey a supportive, non-judgmental attitude to their patients, especially with regard to sexual and reproductive issues. The Manipal College of Medical Sciences (MCOMS), Pokhara, Nepal admits students from Nepal, India, Sri Lanka and other countries to the undergraduate medical (MBBS) course. In the MBBS curriculum sexual and reproductive issues are not adequately covered.

METHODS

The Department of Medical Education at MCOMS organized a voluntary Medical Humanities module and conducted a session on social issues in the use of medications. Issues regarding sexual and reproductive health were explored using case scenarios and role plays.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS

This manuscript describes selected case scenarios and various sexuality-related issues covered. The students and the faculty members were of the opinion that sexual and reproductive issues are a grey area in the curriculum. The case scenarios appeared to be successful in sensitizing students and faculty members about certain issues of sexuality. Participants felt the skills acquired would be useful in their future practice. Based on this experience, the module will be modified and strengthened, along with the evaluation process.