Sexual health and learning disability

It is well recognised that the healthcare of those with learning disability (LD) has traditionally fallen behind the care received by the general population. It may be argued that sexual health is among the most difficult and challenging areas for healthcare professionals to address. Difficulties arise from unique communication problems, establishing consent and third party involvement from families and carers. GPs are ideally positioned to provide holistic sexual healthcare for those with learning disability; this article aims to set out some of the areas of difficulty and offer guidance to ensure the subject can be approached with confidence.