[Opinions on the subject of sex life among students of the Medical University in Gdańsk].

Aim: The aim of this study was to illustrate opinions on the subject of sex life among students of the Faculty of Medicine, Medical University of Gdańsk.

Method: A group of 340 medical students aged 18 to 28 (195 females and 118 males) were examined with the study questionnaire from October till December 2003. The examined group was representative for the investigated population (chi squared test: p> 0.005 for the entire group and both sexes). 313 questionnaires were qualified for further analysis. The questionnaire comprised three groups of questions: questions concerning relationship and associated sexuality, questions concerning attitudes towards various aspects of sexuality and a set of questions dedicated to the role of sexology in the medical curriculum and general medical practice. This paper focuses on the question sets concerning the relationships between sex and emotions, factors influencing sex life, opinions on various issues of human sexuality i.e. masturbation, adultery, prostitution and common stereotypes of male and female sexuality.

Results: The examined group has a well defined and mature attitude towards their sex life. The emotional bond to the partner is essential for finding pleasure in sex. Love and faithfulness are the two most important factors that influence sex in a positive way. Successful sex life is thought to be crucial for a happy and lasting relationship. Adultery is viewed negatively, as harm done to the partner. Students perceive masturbation as something pleasant and as an alternative form of sexual activity, however there is a wide spectrum of negative attitudes towards it.