Sexual Dysfunction is Common
"A sexual problem, or sexual dysfunction, refers to a problem
during any phase of the sexual response cycle that prevents the
individual or couple from experiencing satisfaction from the sexual
activity. The sexual response cycle has four phases: excitement,
plateau, orgasm, and resolution.
While research suggests that sexual dysfunction is common (43% of
women and 31% of men report some degree of difficulty), it is a topic
that many people are hesitant to discuss. Fortunately, most cases of
sexual dysfunction are treatable, so it is important to share your
concerns with your partner and doctor." *
What Causes Female Sexual Problems?
"Sexual dysfunction can be a result of a physical or psychological problem.
- Physical causes. Many physical and/or medical
conditions can cause sexual problems. These conditions include diabetes,
heart disease, neurological diseases, hormonal imbalances, menopause,
chronic diseases such as kidney disease or liver failure, alcoholism,
and drug abuse. Moreover, the side effects of certain medications,
including some antidepressant drugs, can affect sexual desire and
function.
- Psychological causes. These include
work-related stress and anxiety, concerns about sexual performance,
marital or relationship problems, depression, feelings of guilt, and the
effects of a past sexual trauma." *
Who Is Affected by Sexual Problems?
"Both men and women are affected by sexual problems. Sexual
problems occur in adults of all ages. Among those commonly affected are
seniors, which may be related to a decline in health associated with
aging." *
How Do Sexual Problems Affect Women?
"The most common problems related to sexual dysfunction in women include:
- Inhibited sexual desire
- Inability to become aroused
- Lack of orgasm (anorgasmia)
- Painful intercourse
We'll discuss each of these on the following slides." *
Inhibited Sexual Desire
"Inhibited sexual desire involves a lack of sexual desire or
interest in sex. Many factors can contribute to a lack of desire,
including hormonal changes, medical conditions and treatments (for
example cancer and chemotherapy), depression, pregnancy, stress, and
fatigue. Boredom with regular sexual routines also may contribute to a
lack of enthusiasm for sex, as can lifestyle factors, such as careers
and the care of children." *
Inability to Become Aroused
"For women, the inability to become physically aroused during
sexual activity often involves insufficient vaginal lubrication. The
inability to become aroused also may be related to anxiety or inadequate
stimulation. Researchers are investigating how blood flow problems
affecting the vagina and clitoris may contribute to female sexual
arousal problems." *
Lack of Orgasm (Anorgasmia)
"Anorgasmia is the absence of sexual climax (orgasm). It can be
caused by sexual inhibition, inexperience, lack of knowledge, and
psychological factors such as guilt, anxiety, or a past sexual trauma or
abuse. Other factors contributing to anorgasmia include insufficient
stimulation, certain drugs, and chronic diseases." *
Painful Intercourse
"Pain during intercourse can be caused by a number of problems,
including endometriosis, a pelvic mass, ovarian cysts, vaginitis, poor
lubrication, vaginal dryness, the presence of scar tissue from surgery,
or a sexually transmitted disease. A condition called vaginismus is a
painful, involuntary spasm of the muscles that surround the vaginal
entrance. It may occur in women who fear that penetration will be
painful, and also may stem from a sexual phobia or from a previous
traumatic or painful experience." *
How Is a Female Sexual Problem Diagnosed?
"To diagnose a woman's sexual problem, the doctor likely will begin
with a physical exam and a thorough evaluation of symptoms. The doctor
may perform a pelvic exam to evaluate the health of the reproductive
organs and a Pap smear to detect changes in the cells of the cervix (to
check for cancer or a pre-cancerous condition). The doctor may order
other tests to rule out any medical problems that may be contributing to
the problem.
An evaluation of your attitude regarding sex, as well as other
possible contributing factors (fear, anxiety, past sexual trauma/abuse,
relationship problems, alcohol or drug abuse, for example) will help the
doctor understand the underlying cause of the problem and make
appropriate recommendations for treatment." *
How Are Female Sexual Problems Treated?
"The ideal approach to treating sexual problems in women involves a
team effort between the woman, doctors, and trained therapists. Most
types of sexual problems can be corrected by treating the underlying
physical or psychological problems. Other treatment strategies are shown
on the next slides." *
Providing Education
"Education about human anatomy, sexual function, and the normal
changes associated with aging, as well as sexual behaviors and responses
may help a woman overcome her anxieties about sexual function and
performance." *
Enhancing Sexual Stimulation
"Enhancing sexual stimulation may include the use of erotic
materials (videos or books), masturbation, and changes to sexual
routines." *
Providing Distraction Techniques
"Erotic or non-erotic fantasies, exercises with intercourse, music,
videos, or television can be used to increase relaxation and eliminate
anxiety." *
Encouraging Non-Coital Behaviors
"Non-coital behaviors (physically stimulating activity that does
not include intercourse), such as sensual massage, can be used to
promote comfort and increase communication between partners." *
Minimizing Pain
"Using sexual positions that allow the woman to control the depth
of penetration may help relieve some pain. The use of vaginal lubricants
can help reduce pain caused by friction, and a warm bath before
intercourse can help increase relaxation." *
Can Sexual Problems Be Cured?
"The success of treatment for sexual dysfunction depends on the
underlying cause of the problem. The outlook is positive for sexual
problems that are related to a treatable or reversible physical
condition. Mild dysfunction that is related to stress, fear, or anxiety
often can also be successfully treated with counseling, education, and
improved communication between partners." *
How Do Hormones Affect Sexual Function?
"Hormones play an important role in regulating sexual function in
women. With the decrease in the female hormone estrogen that is related
to aging and menopause, many women experience some changes in sexual
function as they age, including poor vaginal lubrication and decreased
genital sensation. Moreover, research suggests that low levels of the
male hormone testosterone also contribute to a decline in sexual
arousal, genital sensation, and orgasm. Researchers still are
investigating the benefits of hormones and other drugs, including drugs
like Viagra, to treat sexual problems in women." *
What Effect Does a Hysterectomy Have on Sexual Function?
"Many women experience changes in sexual function after a
hysterectomy (surgical removal of the uterus). These changes may include
a loss of desire, decreased vaginal lubrication, and genital sensation.
These problems may be associated with the hormonal changes that occur
with the loss of the uterus. Furthermore, nerves and blood vessels
critical to sexual function can be damaged during the hysterectomy
procedure." *
How Does Menopause Affect a Woman's Sexual Function?
"The loss of estrogen following menopause can lead to changes in a
woman's sexual functioning. Emotional changes that often accompany
menopause can add to a woman's loss of interest in sex and/or ability to
become aroused. Hormone therapy (HT, HRT, ET, ERT) or vaginal
lubricants may improve certain conditions, such as loss of vaginal
lubrication and genital sensation, which can create problems with sexual
function.
It should be noted that some postmenopausal women report an
increase in sexual satisfaction. This may be due to decreased anxiety
over getting pregnant. In addition, postmenopausal woman often have
fewer child-rearing responsibilities, allowing them to relax and enjoy
intimacy with their partners." *
When Should I Call my Doctor About Sexual Problems?
"Many women experience a problem with sexual function from time to
time. However, when the problems are persistent, they can cause distress
for the woman and her partner, and can have a negative impact on their
relationship. If you consistently experience these problems, see your
doctor for evaluation and treatment." *
