In Asian societies, sexual health remains essential yet often stigmatised, with issues ranging from HIV among men who have sex with men (MSM) to erectile dysfunction (ED), premature ejaculation (PE), and teenage pregnancy. Despite telemedicine’s long-standing presence, the COVID-19 pandemic has emphasised its capacity to bridge healthcare gaps, especially in sexual medicine. The pandemic has shifted how patients approach sexual health, with many preferring remote consultations over traditional in-person visits due to privacy concerns and convenience. Drawing upon a comprehensive review of existing literature, this chapter presents a conceptual framework for leveraging telemedicine to address sexual health barriers in Southeast Asia, a region where cultural stigma around sexual health is often rooted in conservative beliefs, religious influences, and traditional values, especially when compared to Western Pacific or East Asian regions. The proposed framework emphasises five key elements: cultural sensitivity, anonymity, accessibility, trust-building, and quality assurance of healthcare providers (CAAT-Q). By embedding these elements, telemedicine platforms can encourage open discussions on sexual health, enhance care access, and foster healthier communities. This approach acknowledges cultural nuances and promotes a safe, supportive environment, aiming to improve overall sexual health across Asian societies.

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Breaking Taboos on Sexual Health in Asia Through Telemedicine: A Conceptual Framework

  • Hoe Leong Sii,
  • Eng Keat Goh,
  • Rong Xiang Ng

摘要

In Asian societies, sexual health remains essential yet often stigmatised, with issues ranging from HIV among men who have sex with men (MSM) to erectile dysfunction (ED), premature ejaculation (PE), and teenage pregnancy. Despite telemedicine’s long-standing presence, the COVID-19 pandemic has emphasised its capacity to bridge healthcare gaps, especially in sexual medicine. The pandemic has shifted how patients approach sexual health, with many preferring remote consultations over traditional in-person visits due to privacy concerns and convenience. Drawing upon a comprehensive review of existing literature, this chapter presents a conceptual framework for leveraging telemedicine to address sexual health barriers in Southeast Asia, a region where cultural stigma around sexual health is often rooted in conservative beliefs, religious influences, and traditional values, especially when compared to Western Pacific or East Asian regions. The proposed framework emphasises five key elements: cultural sensitivity, anonymity, accessibility, trust-building, and quality assurance of healthcare providers (CAAT-Q). By embedding these elements, telemedicine platforms can encourage open discussions on sexual health, enhance care access, and foster healthier communities. This approach acknowledges cultural nuances and promotes a safe, supportive environment, aiming to improve overall sexual health across Asian societies.