Female Sexual Dysfunction

Sexual dysfunction is a problem that affects both men and women. Sexual dysfunction is a broad term used to describe problems that may occur during an individual’s sexual cycle. In most cases, problems associated with sexual dysfunction can prohibit the sufferer from enjoying a healthy, satisfying sexual experience. Thanks to modern medical advances the stigma once attached to sexual dysfunction is no longer prevalent and there are discreet, reliable solutions to aid sufferers in achieving a pleasurable sexual experience.

There are many underlying causes of sexual dysfunction namely, physical, psychological and environmental. Physical conditions are mostly medical like diabetes, heart disease, neurological disorders, hormonal imbalances and menopause to name a few. Side effects from taking certain medications like anti-depressants can also affect sexual functions and your libido. The use of alcohol and narcotics can too have a negative impact on your sexual activity.

Work-related stress and anxiety is one of the main psychological causes of sexual dysfunction. Lack of sexual confidence, relationship problems, feelings of guilt, or depression are also all strong contributors. Environmental factors that need to be taken into account are mostly situational and can cover anything from pollution to work related exposure to extreme heat or cold.

What is female sexual dysfunction?

We often hear talk of male sexual dysfunction while female sexual dysfunction is largely ignored. However women can also suffer from this condition and this can have a large affect on their lifestyles. Some of the most common causes of female sexual dysfunction include:

Lack of/suppressed sexual desire: In everyday terms, we describe this as a woman being cold. A woman could be suffering from sexual dysfunction when she does not have an interest in or desire for sex. This condition can be caused by a number of factors including hormonal changes, medical conditions and treatments (such as cancer and chemotherapy), depression, pregnancy, stress and fatigue. Life factors, careers, as well as boredom can have the same effect.

Lack of sexual arousal: This can result in a woman not getting sufficient vaginal lubrication during sexual activity. The major reasons behind this could be anxiety or inadequate stimulation. If a woman is afraid of the sexual act or is not sure about her partner, she might suffer from lack of sexual arousal.

Inability to achieve orgasm (anorgasmia): This refers to the inability to reach sexual climax or climax being extremely delayed. Causes for anorgasmia include; sexual inhibitions, lack of experience or knowledge about the act, and or psychological factors like guilt, and anxiety. Past sexual trauma or abuse can also lead to this condition.

Painful intercourse (dysparenuia): Many women suffer from pain during intercourse on account of various conditions including endometriosis, pelvic mass, ovarian cysts, vaginitis, poor lubrication, or the presence of scar tissue from surgery and sexually transmitted diseases. Some women who fear that penetration may be painful may also suffer from a painful, involuntary spasm of the muscles surrounding the vaginal entrance, this is a condition known as vaginismus.

Can female sexual dysfunction be diagnosed and treated?

Yes, it is possible to diagnose and treat female sexual dysfunction. It usually involves a thorough examination and evaluation of all symptoms. Tests such as a pelvic examination, Pap as well as other diagnostic tests can also help with diagnosis. Other contributing factors such as fear, anxiety, past sexual trauma/abuse, relationship problems, substance abuse etc. can be determined through psychological evaluation to get an idea about the person’s attitude towards sex and thereby determine the underlying factors causing the problem.

There are a number of treatments available for female sexual dysfunction. These involve correcting and treating the underlying physical or psychological problems behind the condition. Other methods include education, counseling, stimulation enhancement as well as distraction techniques.

One of the best methods of treating female sexual dysfunction is hormone therapy. Hormones play a major role in regulating sexual functions in women. Most women face a drop in estrogen levels as they age. Menopause brings about a sharp drop in hormone production level and this can badly affect sexual function and libido. Hysterectomy and removal of the ovaries can also play havoc on hormone production and cause female sexual dysfunction.

In all such conditions the best method of treatment turns out to be hormone replacement therapy (HRT). There are a number of medications available for HRT. One of the latest and best medications to be introduced is Intrinsa testosterone patches. This transdermal treatment method works by providing a steady, continuous supply of testosterone to the woman, thereby affecting changes in her libido and sexual drive.

Intrinsa testosterone patches are now approved for prescription sale in the UK and are available online through 121doc.co.uk. If you are suffering from female sexual dysfunction and libido problems, you can easily have a consultation and place an order for Intrinsa testosterone patches (if approved) and get your sexual life back!