The need for reliable, effective, and ethical sexual care services has increased significantly among military personnel deployed to high-risk areas. This is because soldiers often experience trauma, stress, and isolation due to extended periods away from home and loved ones, which may affect their physical, emotional, and psychological health. Sexual assault, harassment, exploitation, and misconduct are also common among military personnel, especially those who serve in conflict zones. In addition, some soldiers suffer from mental illnesses such as PTSD, anxiety, depression, and insomnia that hinder them from having satisfying sexual relations when they return home. To improve the wellbeing and satisfaction of service members during deployment, it is necessary to provide them with comprehensive sexual care services that incorporate relational support.
Operationalizing sexual care as relational support may be challenging since there is no standardized approach or framework that guides providers on how to do this effectively. Therefore, this article provides a detailed guide on how to operationalize sexual care as relational support during military or high-risk service.
How can military healthcare providers deliver relational sexual care? First, they should develop an individualized care plan based on the specific needs of each soldier. This means understanding their unique circumstances, preferences, and expectations regarding sex and relationships. It involves asking questions about their sexual history, beliefs, desires, fears, and concerns. Providers should then communicate these findings back to the patient to ensure they understand what is expected. Secondly, providers should create a safe and trustworthy environment for discussing sensitive topics like sex, intimacy, and relationships. This can be achieved by using non-judgmental language, maintaining confidentiality, and creating a comfortable atmosphere where patients feel heard and respected. The third step is to educate soldiers on effective sexual communication skills.
Providers can teach them how to initiate sexual activity, respond positively to requests, negotiate boundaries, and resolve conflicts. Fourthly, providers should help soldiers explore different sexual activities and positions that meet their needs. Soldiers may have had limited experiences before deployment, so they need guidance on what works best for them.
Providers should connect soldiers with other resources such as counselors, therapists, and community organizations to address any underlying issues affecting their sexual wellbeing. These include mental illnesses, substance abuse, trauma, and social isolation. By following this approach, providers will improve sexual care delivery and increase the satisfaction of military personnel during deployment.
How can sexual care be operationalized as relational support during military or high-risk service?
Sexual care is an important aspect of relationship satisfaction for many couples who are involved in military or high-risk services. It includes physical intimacy, communication, and emotional connection between partners that contribute to maintaining a healthy and fulfilling relationship. In these types of relationships where partners may face separation, stressful situations, and time constraints, providing sexual care can be challenging but crucial for overall well-being.