Coping with psychosexual problems in the context of HIV infection

Abstract

This paper explores the range of psychosexual problems identified in people with HIV infection and AIDS. It includes problems related to sexuality or the need to discuss sexuality with others. Erectile disorder and reduced sexual drive are sometimes presented. Many individuals experience sexual relationship difficulties generally and specific problems associated with the adoption and maintenance of safer sexual behaviours. Such maintenance is a long-term problem. Discussion surrounding procreation is relevant for all clients, irrespective of their sexuality. Other sexually transmitted diseases may facilitate transmission and disease progression and hence enter the HIV arena. Lastly, sex for money, and rape are discussed. An intervention study is briefly described in an attempt to quantify the range and extent of psychosexual problems arising during counselling and the efficacy of counselling training in these skills for non-mental health staff working with AIDS and HIV positive clients. Short training courses were monitored before, immediately after and at six months follow up for 64 health care workers. Forty-six percent of respondents spent time discussing sexual matters with clients. Counselling anxiety for these workers was significantly reduced by training.