How patients experience discussing couple relationship problems with general practitioners: an interview study

Background Couple relationship satisfaction is related to good physical and mental health and longevity. Many patients have discussed or wish to discuss their couple relationship with their general practitioner (GP) and look for personalised care and support when discussing topics they perceive as sensitive.

Aim To explore patient experiences of discussing couple relationship problems in GP consultations.

Design & setting Qualitative study employing semi-structured interviews with patients from general practice.

Method Individual interviews with 18 patients who had discussed their couple relationship with their GP. Participants were recruited through both social and traditional media, and all interviews were digitally recorded. The purposive sample comprised thirteen women and five men, representing diverse age groups, backgrounds, and relationship problems. All participants identified as heterosexual. We analysed interview data thematically using systematic text condensation.

Results Three main themes emerged: (i) GPs in a facilitating role, not on an assembly line; (ii) Navigating the “elephant in the room”; (iii) GPs as biomedically competent life witnesses. GP continuity was vital in fostering the trust required to discuss sensitive topics, such as relationship issues. Participants valued a biopsychosocial approach which incorporated knowledge of close relationships into medical consultations. They appreciated both GP support and constructive challenges that prompted them to take responsibility for relationship improvements.

Conclusion Patients value their GPs’ holistic, supportive, and direct approach in addressing couple relationship problems, although they perceive that GPs do not always have sufficient time. They welcome relevant challenges that can drive positive change.