"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, 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
- 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 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 vaginas 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
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." *
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." *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." *
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