The psychological challenge of genital injury

Abstract

There is no published evidence base to guide psychological interventions for genital trauma. Professional multidisciplinary intervention will potentially be beneficial in establishing the long-term needs of this patient population, together with qualitative research exploring the experience of soldiers suffering genital trauma.

Male psychosexual therapy in the UK military

“…Furthermore, there is no identified published evidence-base on a specific psychological intervention for genital trauma 1. Nevertheless, PST has developed a clear theoretical and evidence-base for psychosexual problems in general,21 22 and meta-analyses of approaches are summarised by Carr 23.…”

“…Frappell-Cooke et al 1 outline the development in recent years of a genital injury care pathway for the UK’s Role 4 battlefield casualties, which was linked with the Royal Centre for Defence Medicine (RCDM) and the Defence Medical Rehabilitation Centre (DMRC). This resulted in the establishment of a new clinical psychology service for such personnel, with the lead author of this current article serving as consultant on the care pathway for this specialist provision at that time.…”

“…Some of these issues are associated with physical factors or trauma (eg, operational injuries). In addition, as noted by Dr Frappell-Cooke,1 formerly a member of the Defence Clinical Psychology Service, Ministry of Defence (MoD), UK, operational exposure to improvised explosive devices may result in a devastating impact on bodily integrity. Physical injuries can be significant and entail ‘traumatic amputation of limbs, pelvic fracture, abdominal trauma, extremity fragmentation wounds and genital trauma’ (p. 52).…”

Psychological Support of Adolescent after Autocastration: A Case Report

“…The bare minimum of available information, about possible surgical interventions and likely outcomes of those in lowincome settings, made planning of the therapy sessions extremely very difficult. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) was employed as the most appropriate option [22] taking into consideration the age of the patient and that after full insight he developed classical clinical picture of Major Depressive Disorder [11] including low mood, crying spells, fatigue, poor appetite, sleep disturbances and feeling of worthlessness. Before patient has got placement for "the project" following techniques were used: relaxation, daily and weekly scheduling of activities; Automatic Negative Thought Diary; work with malfunctioned cognitions related to "manhood", future, family life, etc.…”

“…At that time of interview he did not report any suicidal ideation, suicidal behavior, or desire for self-injury. Initially a diagnosis of Substance/Medication -Induced Psychotic Disorder with onset during intoxication with hallucinations [11] was made with incipient schizophrenia as a differential diagnosis.…”