(010) Provider Habits on Screening Sexual Dysfunction in Pregnancy: A Novel Mixed Methods Study

Abstract

Abstract Introduction The prevalence of sexual dysfunction increases throughout pregnancy. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends screening for sexual dysfunction in pregnancy, however, there is little information on when or how this is occurring. Objective To evaluate provider opinions and screening habits regarding sexual dysfunction in pregnancy. Methods This is a mixed methods study conducted with an opinion/practice survey completed by 31 perinatal care providers in Illinois and a randomized, retrospective chart review of obstetric clinic visits of 113 patients at a tertiary medical center in the Chicago metro area. Results 85% of providers believe that sexual dysfunction is either somewhat (n=17) or very important (n=9) as compared to other conditions in pregnancy. Approximately one third (n=11) of providers indicate that they regularly screen for sexual dysfunction in pregnancy. 19% of patients (n=21) charts contained evidence of screening for sexual dysfunction during the perinatal period. Less than half of those with evidence of screening were screened antepartum (n=8). No patients had evidence of screening in the third trimester. Of those patients denoted as screened, 76% (n=16) reported symptoms of sexual dysfunction. Conclusions The findings from the survey pilot study demonstrate that while most providers agree sexual dysfunction in pregnancy is somewhat to very important, there is significant variability in their approach to addressing it, with a majority not addressing it at all. Providers reported multiple barriers to screening including a lack of time and appropriate training. Minimal evidence of sexual dysfunction screening or education during prenatal care was seen on chart review. Given the known high prevalence of sexual dysfunction in the perinatal period, these findings elucidate a need for the development of uniform, screening and education standards for pregnancy. Disclosure No.