Sex and Sexuality

This book bridges the gap between the counsellor and the specialist sex therapist, by providing answers to questions raised by patients or clients about sex, gender and sexuality. It covers physiological information about genitalia, variations on sexuality, the differences between men and women in genital sexual arousal and sexual dysfunctions, an understanding of developmental sexuality and information as to whether the sex discussed is normal or pathological. By having a clearer understanding of usual sexual practices, counsellors can be readily equipped to reassure their clients, or refer to an appropriate person for specialist referral.

Topics covered include physiological difficulties like erectile problems, ejaculatory difficulties, vaginismus and dyspareunia, and loss of sexual desire; gender problems including cross-dressing, transsexualism and intersex; and psychological problems include sexual addiction, fetishism and unusual sexual practices. These are discussed in the context of individual clients and in couple dynamics, and provide a comprehensive reference for the non-specialist mental health professional.

Foreword xiii

Chapter 1 Introduction 1

Chapter 2 Questions of gender 6

Chapter 3 Body and mind 18

Chapter 4 Sexual issues for women 34

Chapter 5 Sexual issues for men 51

Chapter 6 Sex and relationships 65

Chapter 7 Discussing Sex in the Consulting room 78

Chapter 8 Variations in sexuality and gender 87

Chapter 9 Sexual diversity 105

Glossary 121

Useful addresses 123

References 125

Index 138

Glyn Hudson-Allez has a BSc - Hons - and a PhD in Psychology from the University of Bristol, and an MSc in Applied Forensic Psychology from the University of Leicester. She is an Accredited Psychosexual Therapist and on the UKCP Register. This book bridges the gap between the counsellor and the specialist sex therapist, by providing answers to questions raised by patients or clients about sex, gender and sexuality. It covers physiological information about genitalia, variations on sexuality, the differences between men and women in genital sexual arousal and sexual dysfunctions, an understanding of developmental sexuality and information as to whether the sex discussed is normal or pathological. By having a clearer understanding of usual sexual practices, counsellors can be readily equipped to reassure their clients, or refer to an appropriate person for specialist referral.

Topics covered include physiological difficulties like erectile problems, ejaculatory difficulties, vaginismus and dyspareunia, and loss of sexual desire; gender problems including cross-dressing, transsexualism and intersex; and psychological problems include sexual addiction, fetishism and unusual sexual practices. These are discussed in the context of individual clients and in couple dynamics, and provide a comprehensive reference for the non-specialist mental health professional.