Sexuality and intercultural communication; stories from a general practice
Dees, M.K.
Nederlands Tijdschrift Voor Geneeskunde 162
2018
ISSN/ISBN: 0028-2162 PMID: 30182633 Document Number: 696156
Differences in ethnic background, culture, religion and language can impede communication between physicians and patients about sexuality. At the same time, most people, regardless of age, gender and cultural background, find sexuality an essential part of their lives. Sexual problems have a negative effect on perceived health. Many doctors think that non-Western migrants do not want to talk about sexuality and therefore - wrongly - do not mention this subject. With stories from daily practice, I want to show you that modesty, interest, respect, safety and appropriate information are the starting point for professional communication about sexuality. This is also the case for patients with non-Western ethnic, cultural and religious backgrounds.