• When you visit your GP try to start the consultation with a discussion of your sexual problem. Don't begin the discussion by introducing a different problem and then try to ease into a conversation about your real reason for attendance. Spending time talking about other problems will simply erode the time available for discussing your sexual problem. Cut to the chase at the start of the consultation.

Here are some opening lines which you might find useful to start a conversation about your problem:

"My sex life isn't what is used to be".

"I'm having some marital problems".

"I've got a problem that I find quite difficult to talk about. It's to do with maintaining an erection".

"I'm having some trouble getting an erection and I'm concerned".

"I have high blood pressure. I have heard that this can cause erection problems. Is this true?" (This opening line can also be used for other medical conditions).

"Is it possible that the tablets I am taking are causing me to have erection problems?"

• Bring your partner with you for the consultation if it will make it easier for you to discuss the problem.

• Book an appointment to see your GP rather than attending an open non-appointment session at the surgery. Non-appointment sessions in the surgery tend to be more frenetic and are not ideal for discussing personal problems.

• You may be embarrassed at having to attend your GP for the first time with a sexual problem but remember that your doctor will have heard the problem many times before. Sexual problems are common.

• Approach the consultation with an attitude of hope. Be positive. The majority of sexual problems can be solved.

• If you are truly feeling awful and embarrassed at the start of the consultation then say so. Being honest about the way you feel is a good start to a consultation.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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