Female Sexual Dysfunction

Studies show that about one half of American men over age 40 have a problem getting or keeping an erection that’s firm enough for sexual satisfaction
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Female Sexual Dysfunction

What is female sexual dysfunction?

Female sexual dysfunction can include a wide variety of symptoms including painful intercourse, poor sexual response or poor desire. The most common issues related to sexual dysfunction among women include:

  • Painful intercourse
  • Inhibited sexual desire
  • An inability to become aroused
  • Anorgasmia, or lack of orgasm

Painful intercourse (dyspareunia) can be caused by endometriosis (in which tissue that normally lines the uterus grows outside of it), pelvic masses, ovarian cysts, sexually transmitted diseases, the presence of scar tissue from surgery, inflammation of the vagina (vaginitis) or poor lubrication.

Inhibited sexual desire is a lack of sexual interest or desire. Hormonal changes, cancer, chemotherapy, pregnancy, stress, depression and fatigue can all contribute to this problem.

An inability to become aroused may occur in women if there is insufficient vaginal lubrication. This issue may also be related to inadequate stimulation or anxiety. Women may also suffer from this if a blood flow disorder affects the vagina and/or clitoris.

Anorgasmia is the delay or absence of sexual climax. Sexual inhibition, inexperience, anxiety, guilt and past sexual trauma or abuse can all contribute. One may also struggle to have an orgasm if there is insufficient stimulation, take certain medications or suffer from a chronic disease.

What are the causes of sexual dysfunction among women?

The physical causes of female sexual dysfunction include:

  • Menopause
  • Heart disease
  • Diabetes
  • Neurological disorders
  • Kidney or liver failure
  • Alcoholism
  • Drug abuse
  • Side effects from antidepressants and other medications

The psychological causes of female sexual dysfunction include:

  • Depression
  • Effects of previous sexual trauma
  • Feelings of guilt
  • Stress and anxiety
  • Concern about sexual performance
  • Marital or relationship issues

How does menopause affect sexual dysfunction?

Hormones play an essential role in regulating female sexual function. As women naturally lose estrogen and enter menopause, changes in sexual functioning can occur. Shifts in hormone levels can cause poor vaginal lubrication and a decrease in genital sensation. Emotional changes that often occur during menopause can also contribute to a woman’s loss of sexual desire and the inability to become aroused.

Schedule treatments in California

If you have persistent, recurrent problems with any of these issues that are causing distress or straining your personal relationships, you may benefit from the treatment offered at Unio Specialty Care. Our treatments focus on the underlying cause, and can help eliminate or reduce the severity of these common problems. MonaLisa Touch is a laser treatment that can improve the symptoms associated with menopause and vaginal atrophy.