Experts Urge Clinicians to Ask Seven Key Sexual Health Questions

New Guidelines Debuted at Infectious Diseases Congress

At the recent Argentine Society of Infectious Diseases (SADI) Congress, leading physicians released updated guidelines for sexual health consultations that emphasize a respectful and comprehensive approach. These recommendations, outlined by the HIV and STI Commission, focus on seven essential questions that clinicians should use to capture a complete picture of a patient’s sexual health.

Shifting Toward Empathy and Inclusivity in Sexual Health

Medical professionals highlight that many healthcare providers feel uneasy delving into sexual health with patients—often due to a lack of training or discomfort discussing intimate topics. The updated guidelines urge clinicians to overcome these barriers by fostering a nonjudgmental environment, initiating conversations with open-ended questions, and explaining the purpose behind each query. This approach is designed to build trust and provide more accurate, personalized care.

“We need to be warm because we are asking intimate questions. You cannot rush into conversations about sexual practices without creating a comfortable environment,” noted Dr. Romina Mauas, one of the guideline’s authors.

The Seven Key Areas for Sexual Health Consultations

The new guidelines encourage clinicians to address these seven core topics:

• Reason for Consultation: Clarify why the patient has come in and identify any relevant symptoms.

• History of Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs): Assess prior diagnosis, exposure, or treatment of STIs, including testing for HIV and viral hepatitis.

• Sexual Partners: Discuss the number and gender of recent sexual partners, avoiding assumptions about sexual orientation and showing respect for self-identification.

• Sexual Practices: Explore the types of sexual activities (oral, vaginal, anal), as well as group sex, sex in exchange for goods or services, use of dating apps, and substance use during sex.

• STI Protection: Review frequency of condom use and vaccination status for hepatitis A and B and human papillomavirus (HPV).

• Pregnancy Prevention: Talk about family planning, contraception, and access to abortion services, referring as appropriate.

• Other Sexual Health Issues: Screen for sexual satisfaction, function, psychosexual concerns, or experiences of gender-based violence, and offer referrals when needed.

Clinicians are also advised to leave time for patients to share additional concerns unique to their experience.

A Model for Global Health Systems

While tailored to regional epidemiology and resources in Argentina, experts suggest these guidelines could serve as a model for clinicians worldwide. By addressing sexual health openly and respectfully, doctors can help reduce stigma and improve patient outcomes—especially in communities where discussing sexuality remains taboo.

Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition1.