Sexual dysfunction in veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder.

INTRODUCTION

Veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) experience high rates of sexual dysfunction. However, the topic of sexual dysfunction is often overlooked clinically and underexamined in the PTSD research literature. Clinician assessment and treatment of sexual dysfunction are particularly important for Veterans, who are at increased risk of exposure to trauma.

AIM

Review the literature regarding sexual dysfunction among Veterans with PTSD.

METHOD

Review of the literature.

RESULTS

Sexual dysfunction, including erectile difficulties in males and vaginal pain in females, is common among Veterans with PTSD. Several underlying mechanisms may account for the overlap between PTSD and sexual dysfunction. Certain barriers may contribute to the reluctance of providers in addressing problems of sexual dysfunction in Veterans with PTSD.

CONCLUSIONS

With the high likelihood of sexual dysfunction among Veterans with PTSD, it is important to consider the integration of treatment strategies. Efforts to further the research on this important topic are needed.