(123) FEMALE SEXUAL DYSFUNCTION IN PREGNANT PATIENTS: A PILOT SURVEY OF OBGYN RESIDENTS’ SCREENING HABITS, METHODS, AND EDUCATION
Authors: Walker K , Casinelli E , Lynn Do, MA 
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Female sexual dysfunction (FSD) in pregnancy is highly prevalent, but largely underdiagnosed, as both patients and healthcare providers do not readily broach the topic. Recent studies have found that obstetrics and gynecology (OBGYN) residents in various programs feel comfortable inquiring about a patient’s sexual history and recognize sexual health training as a priority in residency. Other studies, however, have shown that residents report a lack of knowledge surrounding screening for and providing counseling on FSD. Currently, there is no literature evaluating the extent of OBGYN residency training on FSD in pregnancy.

Objective

This study aims to identify screening habits, methods, and education surrounding screening for FSD in pregnant patients by OBGYN residents at an academic residency program in Chicago, IL.

Methods

This study was an IRB-approved, cross-sectional study that included both a direct online survey and an in-person discussion session designed to collect data on residents’ knowledge, opinions, and perceived barriers to screening. The survey and discussion were administered immediately prior to their biennial lecture on FSD.

Results

17 OBGYN residents at a single institution completed the study. Respondents included 4 (23.5%) PGY1s and 4 (23.5%) PGY2s, who are classified as junior residents, as well as 4 (23.5%) PGY3s and 5 (29.4%) PGY4s, who are classified as senior residents. 3 (17.6%) of the residents were men. Junior residents and senior residents reported that screening for FSD should be done 3.7 times and 2.8 times during pregnancy, respectively. On a scale of 0 to 10 with 0 being uncomfortable and 10 being comfortable, junior residents' and senior residents’ median scores were 3 and 2, respectively for both screening for and providing counseling on FSD in pregnancy. 10 (58.8%) of residents recalled receiving training on FSD during the course of their residency. Only 3 (17.6%) residents reported that they regularly screen for FSD in pregnant patients. Residents identified the most important time to screen for FSD in pregnancy as either the new obstetric visit 7 (41.1%) or the postpartum period 7 (41.1%). For barriers to screening and counseling on FSD in pregnancy, residents reported a lack of training (n=16, 94.1%) and interventions taking too much time (n=9, 52.9%). Qualitative discussion elucidated other barriers, such as having no standard screening tool, feeling unsure about treatment options, and limited curricular education.

Conclusions

Our study shows that although the majority (58%) of residents recall receiving some training in FSD, they do not feel comfortable screening for or counseling on it. Senior residents are only slightly more comfortable than junior residents (3 vs 2 on a 0-10 comfortability scale). The residents report a lack of training in FSD and time-consuming interventions as reasons. Other barriers include lack of a standard screening tool, unfamiliarity with treatment options, and limited curricular education. The knowledge gained from these results indicates a need for curriculum modification and enhancement of the education of OBGYN residents, specifically to address their indicated barriers.

Disclosure

No.