Background: Like other immigrants, Iranians face difficulties using sexual and reproductive health services in Australia. Expectations may be affected by experiences of population control services in Iran. Methods: Fifty-one Iranian women in Sydney (New South Wales) participated in individual interviews and focus groups in 2003-2004. Recorded interviews were transcribed and translated into English and subjected to thematic and narrative analysis. Results: Concepts of sexual health among respondents centred on reproductive gynaecology: pregnancy, contraception and menopause. Issues around relationships or sexual pleasure or pain were not thought of as being issues of 'sexual health'. Discussion: Communication with sexual health caregivers is hampered by the euphemistic, vague and symbolically loaded terminology used by the women in their own language, and their lack of knowledge of English and medical terms. They are reluctant to use interpreters and lack faith in their right to confidentiality. Practical suggestions for providing appropriate clinical care include the use of communication aids, approaching the topic obliquely and interviewing the woman's husband where appropriate.

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information processing doctor patient relation Physician-Patient Relations Australia psychological aspect human sexuality middle aged Aged Iran ethnology interview Humans Interviews as Topic female Aged, 80 and over cultural factor New South Wales Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice Article adult Women migration Emigration and Immigration Cultural Characteristics attitude to health Focus Groups