Managing Psychosexual Consequences in Chronic Diseases

This book provides a comprehensive overview of various chronic diseases - including their clinical characteristics, diagnostic methods, treatment options, and recent research findings - with a special focus on the psychosexual impacts of these conditions on patients and their partners.


Each chapter in the book is dedicated to a specific chronic illness, examining its impact on the patient's sexual health and relationships. The book starts with an overview of the disease and its management, including both traditional and contemporary therapies, diagnostic tools, and international research studies. This is followed by a thorough discussion of the psychosexual consequences of the disease, along with the potential interventions that a multidisciplinary healthcare team can offer to provide comprehensive support to the patient.

The book's primary objective is to improve healthcare professionals' approach to chronic patients by emphasizing the importance of addressing the patient's sexual health and intimacy. By acknowledging and addressing these aspects of the patient's life, healthcare providers can offer more holistic and effective care, leading to better patient outcomes.


Overall, this book serves as a practical and essential guide for healthcare professionals seeking to enhance their knowledge and understanding of the psychosexual impacts of chronic illnesses. It is a valuable resource for those looking to provide compassionate, patient-centered care to those living with chronic conditions.


Elena Longhi is a psychologist and psychotherapist, with specialist training in Sexological Psychotherapy and Systemic and Family Psychotherapy. Since 2000 she has been a Professor at the International Institute for Sexology, Florence, Italy and has worked at the Sexual Medicine Center, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan. One of her key areas of interest is the sexual rehabilitation of patients who have undergone andrological surgery or who suffer from chronic diseases.