Which statement would be most appropriate when the nurse is introducing the topic of sexual relationships during a health interview?

A) "Now, it is time to talk about your sexual history. When did you first have intercourse?"
B) "Most women your age have had more than one sexual partner. How many would you say you have had?"
C) "Women often feel dissatisfied with their sexual relationships. Would it be okay to discuss this now?"
D) "Women often have questions about their sexual relationship and how it affects their health. Do you have any questions?"

The nurse should begin with an open-ended question to assess individual needs. The nurse should include appropriate questions as a routine part of the health history, because doing so communicates that the nurse accepts the individual's sexual activity and believes it is important. The nurse's comfort with the discussion prompts the patient's interest and, possibly, relief that the topic has been introduced. The initial discussion establishes a database for comparison with any future sexual activities and provides an opportunity to screen sexual problems.