Female Sexual Dysfunction

Female sexual dysfunction is a term best defined as the persistent or recurrent inability of women to function sexually. Female sexual dysfunction can manifest as a lack of sexual desire, inability to enjoy sex, vaginal dryness or failure to achieve orgasm. Problems are usually associated with older women who have gone through the menopause, but can effect younger women have undergone a surgical procedure. There are various female sexual dysfunction treatment options available that can help women restore their libido and regain the energy and desire to enjoy a healthy sexual relationship.

121doc offers Intrinsa as a highly effective treatment for female sexual dysfunction. We offer all our patients a confidential online consultation when they order, so that they know they are safe and suitable to take their chosen medication.

How common is female sexual dysfunction?

According to the Sexual Advice Association many women suffer with a sexual problem at some time or another in their lifetime. It’s thought that female sexual dysfunction affects up to 50% of women, with more sufferers experiencing the problem once they reach a mature age. Female sexual dysfunction can also develop in young women through procedures such as a hysterectomy.

What causes female sexual dysfunction?

Physical causes of FSD include:

• Blood vessel damage - can cause vaginal dryness, which makes it harder to become sexually aroused. It can also affect blood flow to the clitoris, making it difficult to climax.
• Nerve damage - can cause reduced sensation, making arousal and orgasm more difficult.
• Endocrine disorders - disorders of these glands, such as the pituitary or thyroid may lead to a loss of sexual interest.
• Low oestrogen levels - affects the parts of the body responsible for producing hormones, thereby affecting the amount of lubrication produced during arousal.
• Smoking, recreational drugs and alcohol – all 3 can affect blood flow to the clitoris

What other factors cause female sexual dysfunction?

Stress, anxiety, poor self-image caused by lifestyle factors such as weight gain, relationship difficulties, guilt or anger can cause loss of desire or arousal problems. Research shows there is a direct link between depression and sexual problems.

A woman who has suffered sexual or domestic abuse may have trouble trusting her partner enough to relax and become aroused. Psychological causes of female sexual dysfunction, unless treated accordingly, may persist for many years.

Can hormonal factors lead to female sexual dysfunction?

Changes in hormone levels can lower oestrogen levels due to the menopause. Changes can also occur after childbirth and when breastfeeding.

Not all sexual problems require medical attention; many people have temporary sexual problems, usually due to anxiety or stress. Any sexual problem that persists for more than a few weeks is worth mentioning to your GP.

How can I treat female sexual dysfunction?

Intrinsa - a prescription only treatment, Intrinsa initially treats FSD in surgically menopausal women who are taking oestrogen medication and are over a certain age. It works by steadily releasing small doses of testosterone into the blood stream.

Contraceptive / general medical review - sometimes adjusting or changing medications that have sexual-related side effects can help counteract FSD.

Oestrogen therapy - this female sexual dysfunction treatment can relieve hot flashes, improve genital sensation, and decrease pain and burning during sexual intercourse. Oestrogen can be taken as an oral medication, a topical cream, a patch or a ring that is inserted into the vagina.

Psychological counselling - relationship and sex therapy can help women overcome the problem if it is caused by depression, poor self-esteem, sexual abuse or incest, feelings of shame or guilt about sex.

What is the next step to take?

You should speak to your local GP about your condition and ask what form of treatment is most suitable for you to take. Alternatively, you can seek impartial advice and order effective treatment online, in confidence. We ask all patients to complete an online consultation with our doctor who can then assess whether you can take medication such as Intrinsa to treat female sexual dysfunction.