This article explores the role of the family physician in helping couples cope with sexual difficulties in the context of their infertility experience and treatment. Sexual dysfunction can be pre-existing or as a result of infertility investigations and treatment. The initial workup in general practice consists of taking a good history and performing a physical examination. This can help exclude medical conditions that may cause sexual dysfunction. The PLISSIT (Permission, Limited Information, Specific Suggestions, Intensive Therapy) method can be used to facilitate discussions about sexual concerns.

Combined oral contraceptive pills (COCs) remain one of the most popular forms of contraception to prevent unwanted pregnancy in women. While it is known that COCs can cause sexual dysfunction in women, there is currently no recommendation to screen for sexual function before and after initiation of COCs. We propose that, based on the evidence available, assessment of sexual function should be done at initiation of COCs, as well as at regular intervals thereafter. This would allow COC-related sexual dysfunction to be managed early, such as by switching the patient to newer-generation COCs or other forms of contraception.