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What is a sexologist and what is their role?

A sexologist has studied sexology, the discipline specialising in the study of sexual behaviour and issues related to sexuality. Unlike a doctor specialising in sexology, a sexologist has not completed a general medical degree. They usually study sexology through a DIU (inter-university diploma) or by following training at a private school. Not all qualifications in sexology are therefore equivalent, and some schools are not officially recognised by the State. Sexology itself covers many areas, including the biological, relational and psychological aspects of sexuality. It aims to promote intimate wellbeing and balanced relationships. A sexologist is therefore a fully-fledged healthcare professional, who can help patients understand their sexual difficulties and find solutions. They play an essential role in helping individuals and couples move towards a better acceptance and understanding of their sexuality. Among the common reasons for consulting a sexologist, we can mention various sexual dysfunctions, such as erection problems, anorgasmia, reduced libido, or pain during intercourse. A sexologist must therefore be able to offer suitable solutions to improve quality of life and personal fulfilment. Finally, there are different types of sexologists, each with a different background and specific approach:

  1• Doctors specialising in sexology: They have medical training and are often specialised in urology, gynaecology or psychiatry before specialising in sexology. Since they are doctors, they are authorised to prescribe medication if necessary;

  2• Psychologist-sexologists: Also known as sex therapists. They may have trained in clinical sexology and psychology. The approach of sex therapists is more emotional and relational, focusing instead on the psychological blocks that can disrupt a person's sex life.

Why consult a sexologist?

Certain disorders affecting sexual wellbeing and the quality of relationships may call for consulting a sexologist. The reasons for consultation are quite varied, although some issues come up frequently:

  1• Erectile dysfunction;

  2• Premature ejaculation;

  3• Reduced libido (in men or women);

  4• Vaginismus, pain during intercourse (dyspareunia), or vaginismus in women.

It is important to consult a sexologist because these problems can lead to feelings of frustration or anxiety. For some people, these sexual difficulties can lead to emotional distress and affect self-esteem and self-confidence. Yet both of these are essential for a fulfilling life. A sexologist can also be consulted for relationship problems, such as a lack of communication within the couple, conflicts related to sexuality, or differences in libido. These issues are often taboo and difficult to bring up, which is why consulting a sexologist opens up a space for supportive dialogue. Sexologists help people explore the psychological, emotional or physical factors behind their difficulties. The goal is to identify the underlying causes of a sexual difficulty in order to strengthen intimacy and closeness between partners. Finally, some people feel the need to consult a sexologist to work through life events, such as sexual trauma or illness. Hormonal changes, particularly during menopause in women, can also affect sexuality. Consulting a sexologist can help you better understand and manage these changes. If needed, do not hesitate to consult a sexologist on Feeli, or a general practitioner, in under 2 hours.

Cost and reimbursement of a sexology consultation

The cost of a consultation with a sexologist depends mainly on the type of sexologist consulted (their qualifications) and their sector of practice. Generally, the cost of a sexologist ranges between 60 and 120 euros per session. Doctors specialising in sexology, who have completed general medical training, sometimes offer contracted consultations, allowing for partial reimbursement from the French health insurance (Assurance Maladie). In this case, the health insurance can cover 30 to 70% of the consultation fee, although this depends on the sexologist's sector of practice (sector 1 or 2). In all cases, part of the cost remains payable by the patient's complementary health insurance (mutuelle). For sexologists who have not completed general medical training, consultations are not reimbursed by the French social security. Indeed, they are not considered medical acts. That said, some complementary insurers do cover the reimbursement of psychology consultations, which can include sexology sessions. In any case, patients are advised to check their complementary cover carefully before each consultation. In short, although reimbursement for sexology consultations is not automatic, some solutions exist to reduce their cost. For a diagnosis and suitable treatment, online consultation on Feeli is available in under 2 hours.

How do I find a sexologist near me?

If you are looking for a sexologist near you, several options are available. First, you can search for a sexologist on an online directory, such as those from the Assurance Maladie or PagesJaunes. Doctolib also allows you to book an appointment online, with the option to search for practitioners by filtering by location and specialty. Feeli also lets you find a sexologist or a doctor without an appointment in under 2 hours, making access to care easier. Indeed, it is generally necessary to wait several weeks or months to get an appointment with a dermatologist. In addition, the websites of the Société Francophone de Sexologie Clinique (SFSC, the French-speaking Society of Clinical Sexology) or the Fédération Française de Sexologie et de Santé Sexuelle (the French Federation of Sexology and Sexual Health) can also provide useful information. These sites have lists of qualified and recognised sexologists, organised by region. Finally, don't forget to check patient reviews to help choose a good sexologist near you. It is also important to check the practitioner's qualifications, favouring sexologists who hold a degree in medicine or psychology.