Virtual Pop-Up: Male Sexual Health Across the Lifespan

Session 2 – 🔵 Advanced
Working with Men who Engage in Anoreceptive Intercourse – A Lifespan Perspective

Session Description
This workshop equips pelvic floor physical therapists with the knowledge and clinical skills to effectively and affirmingly care for men who engage in receptive anal intercourse (RAI).

The session explores pelvic floor function and anorectal anatomy across the lifespan, including age-related changes affecting comfort, pleasure, and function. Emphasis is placed on inclusive communication, trauma-informed care, and reducing stigma in clinical settings.

Content includes anorectal anatomy and physiology, clinical assessment considerations, evidence-informed interventions for pain and dysfunction, and strategies for improving sexual well-being. The session also addresses common patient beliefs and their impact on sexual health outcomes.

Learning Objectives
• Describe three reasons a lifespan perspective matters in RAI care
• Demonstrate inclusive communication during intake
• Summarize relationship between sexual self-esteem and chronic sexual pain
• Explain role of education in improving RAI-related outcomes

Speakers

Steven Lavender, B.Pthy, BFA MSKUS

Steven Lavender is a men’s pelvic health physical therapist with over 20 years of clinical experience in Australia and the United States. He specializes in sexual health rehabilitation and has presented internationally on LGBTQ+ men’s pelvic health.

Christopher-John Godfrey, MA MS PhD

Dr. Godfrey is a clinical health psychologist and Associate Professor at Pace University. His work focuses on men’s health, sexuality, trauma, and LGBTQ+ health communication, with an emphasis on improving provider–patient dialogue beyond risk-based frameworks.