Sexual dysfunctions are common in S.T.D. (Sexually Transmitted Diseases) Clinic attenders. Marital/relationship dysfunctions frequently follow specific sexual dysfunctions such as erectile, impotence and premature ejaculation. In addition concomitant marital therapy has been shown to enhance treatment for sexual dysfunction. Polypartnerism or multiple or serial sexual partners is also a common feature of S.T.D. clinic attenders. To date, no study has fully evaluated the social, psychological and medical determinants of this behaviour.

The study examined the relationship between sexual dysfunction, marital difficulties and polypartnerism in 50 heterosexual STD clinic attenders. Thirty-one per cent of the sample had pathological scores on the Golombok-Rust Inventory of Sexual Satisfaction (GRISS). Forty-two per cent of the sample has pathological scores on the Golombok-Rust Inventory of Marital Satisfaction (GRIMS). There was a significant relationship between sexual dysfunction and marital dysfunction. Polypartnerism was also correlated with sexual and relationship dysfunction. It was felt that by offering treatment for specific sexual dysfunctions identified at STD clinics, marital/relationship difficulties could be averted. Subsequently polypartnerism could be reduced. By altering polypartnerism in this way, an important opportunity to influence vector spread of STD, including HIV infection is afforded.