SEXUAL DYSFUNCTION, FEMALE

 Basic information

description

Female sexual dysfunction is not a disease. It is a term used to describe problems with sexual desire, arousal, orgasm, and sexual pain in women. It can affect women of any age. Over 40% of women have sexual problems at some time in their lives.

FREQUENT SIGNS & SYMPTOMS

• Lack of sexual desire or no interest in sex.
• Not able to feel aroused. There may be no sexual response in the body, or it may start, and then stop.
• Failure to achieve orgasm (climax), even when sexually aroused.
• Pain with sexual intercourse.

causes

Sexual dysfunction is usually due to a variety of factors involving a woman's mind, body, and sexual partner.

risk increases with

• Depression, stress, or anxiety. Worries about family problems, finances, career, childcare, marital problems.
• Previous sexual abuse or trauma.
• Feelings of shame or guilt about sex.
• Pregnancy (during and after), or a fear of pregnancy.
• Lack of experience or knowledge about sex on the part of either partner.
• Male sexual partner is having sexual problems.
• Not enough or ineffective foreplay. Feeling boredom with the same sexual routine.
• Couples differ in what they expect from sex, and their attitude toward sex.
• Other people close by in the home (children, mother-in-law).
• Fatigue (e.g., working and caring for small children).
• Medical conditions such as cancer, diabetes, heart disease, thyroid disorders, arthritis, and others.
• Drug abuse, including alcohol.
• Heavy smoking.
• Gynecology factors (infection or other disorders) .
• Side effects of some drugs.
• Intercourse causes pain.
• Hysterectomy with removal of ovaries.
• Menopause (reduced estrogen levels affect sexual function).

PREVENTIVE MEASURES

• Avoid the risk factors where possible.
• Get counseling for any anxieties or fears about sex.
• Maintain good communication with sexual partner.

expected outcomes

Some sexual problems go away on their own. Others are helped with treatment and the support of a caring partner. Some problems are more difficult to resolve.

possible complications

• Ongoing inability to enjoy sex.
• Relationship problems with partner.

 diagnosis & treatment

general measures

• Your health care provider will do a physical exam and ask questions about your symptoms and sexual history. It may be difficult to discuss your sexual concerns, but it is important to be open and honest. Medical tests may be done to check for any health problems.
• Treatment will depend on the type(s) of dysfunction and the causes. Your health care provider will discuss the options regarding treatment steps.
• Treatment will be provided for any medical disorder. This includes vaginal dryness or other physical problems that may be causing painful intercourse.
• Counseling may be suggested for emotional problems such as stress, anxiety, depression, or sexual fears.
• Sex education may be needed for the woman and her partner. Learning about the female anatomy, sexual response, and arousal can help both partners.
• Treatment with a sex therapist may be helpful. Partners can learn techniques to help stimulate each other, perform self-stimulation, use sexual aids, new sexual routines, and communicate about sexual desires.
• A small vacuum device to improve blood flow to the clitoris may be prescribed. It may help sexual arousal.

medications

Nonprescription vaginal lubricants may help. Hormone therapy may be prescribed. Other drugs are currently being tested for female sexual problems.

activity

• Exercise daily. It can reduce stress, improve physical well-being, and may lead to better sexual health.
• Pelvic floor exercises (Kegel) may be recommended.

diet

Eat a well-balanced diet.

 notify our office if

You or a family member has sexual dysfunction problems and wants help in resolving them.

Special Notes: