Lexicographic qualitative approach of nurse’s perspectives on men’s access to sexual health care in Portugal

The lack of visibility of men in sexual and reproductive healthcare emphasises the challenges in addressing this topic, given its personal, private, and subjective nature. Nurses can play an important role in formulating policies that promote male sexual health, contributing to the creation of health programs and defending men's rights concerning sexual healthcare access. This study aimed to analyse nurse's perspectives regarding men's sexual healthcare access in Portugal. A qualitative descriptive study was conducted. Focus group (FG) interviews with 15 nurses working in Portugal were analysed using lexicographic analysis with the support of the interface IRaMuTeQ-R. From the two FGs, 487 text segments were analysed and five classes emerged: Approach triggers between nurses and men; Therapeutic itineraries singularities; Sexual health as a subject; Issues surrounding men's sexual health; Settings for addressing men's sexual health. Nurses' perspectives about men's access to sexual healthcare revealed challenges in recognising men as legitimate recipients of such care, as well as the broader issue of men's political invisibility in this area. The importance of deconstructing simplistic notions about men and masculinity was underlined, highlighting the need to recognize diversity among men to ensure that sexual health care is truly effective. Male opportunities in sexual healthcare in Portugal require a comprehensive and inclusive approach in nurses' education, training, and practices, as well as political guidelines that can make these opportunities clear to men, nurses, and other health professionals.