What Is Sexual Dysfunction?
Sexual dysfunction is a term for any concern related to sexual experience. There are several types of sexual dysfunction:
- Low libido is a lack of sexual desire or interest.
- Orgasmic disorders cause difficulty achieving orgasm, even with enough arousal.
- Sexual arousal disorder includes problems with getting or staying aroused.
- Sexual pain is physical discomfort with sexual activity.
Reasons for Sexual Dysfunction in Women
There are many complex reasons for female sexual dysfunction. You may experience one or several causes:
Physical Reasons
- Hormonal changes such as perimenopause or menopause
- Medical conditions
- Medications
- Nerve problems
- Poor health habits
- Skin conditions
Psychological Reasons
- History of sexual trauma
- Mental health conditions like depression or anxiety
- Social causes, such as religious beliefs or cultural influences
- Stress
- Struggles with body image
Relationship Factors
- Distress in the relationship
- Infidelity
- Lack of emotional intimacy
- Manipulation or abuse
- Sexual dysfunction in your partner
Sexual Dysfunction Symptoms
Symptoms of sexual dysfunction can vary depending on the type and underlying cause:
- Difficulty achieving orgasm
- Lack of interest in sex
- Reduced sexual desire
- Problems getting or staying aroused
- Pain during sex
Changes in your sexual desire or interest are normal. However, treatment can help if your symptoms bother you or negatively affect your sex life. See your primary care provider, gynecologist, or other women's health provider to discuss your symptoms.
How Is Sexual Dysfunction Diagnosed?
Your provider will ask you about the following to diagnose your condition:
- Birth control (if taking any)
- Medications
- Medical history
- Symptoms
They may also use several tests and exams:
- Blood tests—You may get blood tests to check your testosterone levels or thyroid function.
- Cotton swab test—Some conditions, such as vulvodynia, cause pain with even a light touch. Your provider may lightly brush your vulva (external female genitals) with a cotton swab to see if it hurts.
- Pelvic exam—Your provider may examine the outside and inside of your vagina. They may press on your pelvic muscles to see if they’re tight.
- Skin exam or biopsy—Some skin conditions cause inflammation that makes sex painful. Your provider may look at the skin around your vagina. They may also take a small tissue sample (biopsy) for more testing.
Sexual Dysfunction Treatment in Females
Treatment for female sexual dysfunction depends on your symptoms and the cause. Your provider may recommend one or more treatments:
- Couples or sex therapy
- Lifestyle changes, such as exercising or eating a well-balanced diet
- Management of underlying medical conditions
- Medication or birth control changes
Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy
Pelvic floor physical therapy is a specialty that treats pelvic floor disorders. Your pelvic floor physical therapist offers exercises, manual techniques, body awareness training, and other treatments. These help to relax or strengthen your pelvic floor muscles and decrease pain.
Vaginal Dilators
A dilator is a silicone or plastic device. It stretches your vagina to reduce pain and muscle spasms during sex. You start by inserting a very small dilator. As you get comfortable, you gradually increase to larger sizes.
Medications for Sexual Dysfunction
Two medications are approved to treat low sexual desire in women:
- µþ°ù±ð³¾±ð±ô²¹²Ô´Ç³Ù¾±»å±ð—This medicine is a self-injection. You take it about an hour before sexual activity.
- ¹ó±ô¾±²ú²¹²Ô²õ±ð°ù¾±²Ô—This medication is a daily pill. You take it for about three months before deciding whether it works for you.
Your provider may also prescribe Viagra as an off-label treatment. Some studies suggest it helps increase clitoral and uterine blood flow.
Hormone Replacement Therapy for Sexual Dysfunction
Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can treat menopause symptoms such as vaginal dryness. You take estrogen as a pill, patch, gel, spray, or vaginal insert (suppository).
Make an Appointment
Call 801-213-2995 to schedule an appointment with your gynecologist, women’s health provider, or other primary care provider. We don’t require referrals, but some insurance plans do. We recommend checking with your insurance provider before making an appointment.
Why Choose Сòòò½APP?
Our women’s health providers and other primary care providers treat women of all ages who experience sexual dysfunction. We remain current on the latest research to make sure you get advanced, evidence-based treatments. We’re committed to helping you achieve your best health, both now and in the years to come.
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