Which Type of Doctor Should You See First for Sexual Health? | Sexual Wellness in Colorado: Part 2 of a 3-Part Series

Your Guide from a Colorado Sex Therapist's Perspective & Frequent Medical Collaborator

If you're struggling with sexual health concerns, choosing the right healthcare provider can feel overwhelming. Whether it's low libido, painful sex, erectile issues, or hormonal changes, understanding who to see first is the key to getting the right care—especially if you're starting your journey through online sex therapy in Colorado.

Let’s break it down by provider type so you can take that first step with confidence.

🩺 Start with a Primary Care Provider (PCP)

Your primary care provider (PCP)—think family doctor or whoever you'd get a yearly physical from—is often the best starting point. If you're unsure what’s going on or want a comprehensive overview, a PCP can guide you.

What PCPs can help with:

• Basic screenings and bloodwork (including hormone levels)

• Reviewing medications for sexual side effects

• Referrals to specialists like urologists, gynecologists, or therapists

Best for: General sexual health concerns, libido changes, mood shifts, and when you're unsure where to start.

If you’re working with virtual sex therapist in Colorado, your PCP can often collaborate and coordinate care with therapists and specialists for a more holistic approach, if you ask!

⚕️ Gynecologist (for People with Vulvas, Uteruses, or Ovaries)

Gynecologists are experts in reproductive and sexual health for people assigned female at birth. They’re an essential part of your care team if your symptoms are related to hormones or pelvic anatomy.

Gynecologists can help with:

• Pain during sex (dyspareunia)

• Vaginal dryness, irritation, or discharge

• Hormonal changes due to birth control or perimenopause

• Menstrual-related libido changes

Best for: Sexual pain, cycle-related libido shifts, pelvic exams, and hormone-related symptoms.

If you're in Colorado and seeking sex therapy online, your gynecologist may work in tandem with therapists to address both the physical and emotional aspects of sexual health.

🧑‍⚕️ Urologist (for All Genders)

Urologists specialize in the urinary and reproductive systems—for people of all genders. If you're experiencing genital pain, bladder issues, or erection and ejaculation concerns, this is the specialist to see.

Urologists can help with:

• Erectile dysfunction or ejaculation problems

• Painful urination or chronic pelvic pain

• Recurrent UTIs or interstitial cystitis

• Physical causes of low libido or sexual dysfunction

Best for: Genital and urinary concerns, unexplained pelvic discomfort, and sexual performance issues.

🏳️‍⚧️ Gender-Affirming Healthcare Providers

For trans, nonbinary, and gender-diverse individuals, finding gender-affirming care is crucial. From hormone therapy to dysphoria-informed treatment, providers who understand your needs make a huge difference.

Gender-affirming providers may help with:

• Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)

• Navigating sexual function changes during transition

• Providing respectful, inclusive, and trauma-informed care

Tip: If you're not sure whether a provider is LGBTQ+ friendly, call ahead or request a referral. Many online sex therapists in Colorado offer affirming care and can guide you to supportive clinicians.

🧘 What About Pelvic Floor Therapy?

Pelvic floor dysfunction can be a hidden factor behind many sexual health challenges, from pain during sex to difficulty reaching orgasm or bladder leakage. And guess what? Pelvic floor muscles need professional assessment before you jump into Kegels, which are not one-size-fits-all and can actually exacerbate certain conditions!

What a pelvic floor physical therapist (PFPT) helps with:

• Pain with penetration or internal exams

• Postpartum or post-surgical pelvic recovery

• Genital pain, pressure, or tightness

• Urinary leakage or urgency

• Difficulty relaxing during sexual activity

How to get started:Start by speaking with your PCP, gynecologist, or urologist. They can refer you to a qualified PFPT who understands sexual health and works with all genders. Many Colorado-based pelvic floor therapists now offer online consultations, making this care more accessible than ever.

Final Thoughts: Holistic Sexual Health Support in Colorado

Navigating sexual health doesn't have to be confusing or isolating. Whether you're dealing with low libido, painful sex, gender dysphoria, or pelvic issues, there’s help available—and it starts with knowing who to talk to first.

Here at Colorado Sex Therapy's online practice, I'm here to guide you through the process, refer you to trusted medical professionals, and support your mental and emotional wellness along the way.

Ready to talk to someone?

Book a free consultation with a Colorado-licensed sex therapist today. I’ll help you figure out your next best step, and am happy to chat with your doctor or medical team once we meet for a first session. Why wait? I always like to meet with you human to human first before I discuss your care with another professional.

Coming Up in This Series & Beyond:

We're right in the middle of a 3-part journey to help you better understand where to turn for support with sexual health concerns in Colorado.

If you missed it, start with Part 1: Should I See a Doctor or a Sex Therapist for Sexual Issues? — it breaks down the key differences between medical and therapeutic support, and how to begin figuring out what kind of help might be right for you.

Now, here’s what’s next:

Next Tuesday, June 17th (Part 3 of 3): Which Mental Health Professionals Can Help with Sexual Issues? Sex therapy is just one option—learn about the wide range of mental health providers who can support your sexual and emotional wellbeing.

Two Weeks from Now, June 24th ahead of Denver's Pride (June 28th-29th): Denver Pride: Remembering the Roots, Recognizing Trans & Bisexual Erasure, and Questioning Corporate “Rainbow-Washing” Whether you’re marching in the streets, tuning in online, or just vibing at home (introverts unite... at a distance!), this post will remind you why Pride matters—and who we’re all here to celebrate.

Bookmark this blog page or follow me on instagram so you don’t miss the rest!

Just a heads up: This blog is for informational purposes only and isn’t meant to be taken as medical or mental health advice. Always talk with a licensed provider about your specific situation.