Sex • Self • Satisfaction

Sexology in South Africa is an emerging, multidisciplinary field focusing on sexual health, education, and therapy, often addressing gaps in conventional medical care. Qualified practitioners - often with backgrounds in psychology or medicine, are trained to treat issues like sexual dysfunction, pain, and relationship challenges.

Did You Know?

Women with mental disorders show even higher rates of dysfunction, with a reported prevalence of 95.7% in some tertiary care settings.

Recent studies highlight a significantly high prevalence of Female Sexual Dysfunction (FSD) in SA, exceeding global averages.

- A 2025 study of women attending sexual health clinics in Gauteng found a period prevalence of 84.17% for FSD disorders.

- 40%–45% of women experience some form of sexual difficulty.

- Women living with chronic conditions like diabetes and hypertension, symptoms of FSD are 91% - 94%.

- 66% of women (40–65 years) attending primary care, reported FSD & 31% were diagnosed with a formal sexual dysfunction disorder.

Specific Dysfunction Types:

- Low desire affects an estimated 90% to 96% of women in specific clinical samples.

- 52% to 83% of women in various study groups report experiencing pain during intercourse.

Sexual Behaviour & Risk Factors:

- Intercourse Frequency (SIF) is 28% higher among African women compared to Indian/Asian women.

- Being married and living in urban areas are also associated with higher frequency.

Partner Dynamics:

- In rural areas,36% of women reported using a condom during their last sexual act. Reasons for non-use include partner refusal (39%), trust (16%), and desire for pregnancy (13%).

- 5% of women aged 15–49 reported having multiple sexual partners in the past 12 months.

Barriers to Care:

- 75% of healthcare professionals in SA do not address sexual health concerns during routine consultations.

- 91% of patients indicate they would be comfortable if their healthcare provider initiated a discussion about sexual health.

Contact: Southern African Sexual Health Association (SASHA) - team@sasha.org.za or contact a relevant professional on our Practitioner Network - www.sanalifestyle.co.za