Definition

Female sexual dysfunction is a condition that refers to any problem that prevents a woman from experiencing satisfaction during sexual activity. This issue is persistent, recurring, and disruptive to your relationship with your partner. Approximately 30% to 40% of women experience sexual problems at some point in their lives. However, these problems are considered sexual dysfunction when they are severe enough to cause distress or sadness.

Almost all women with sexual dysfunction have more than one specific issue. For example, you might find it difficult to become aroused and reach orgasm, eventually losing interest in sexual activity altogether.

Sexual dysfunction can also occur in men. You can read the article here: Male Sexual Dysfunction - Definition, Cause And Risk Factors.

Causes

Physical Causes

Some physical causes of sexual dysfunction in women include:

• Blood Flow Disorders

In women, increased blood flow to the genitals causes the clitoris and vaginal walls to swell and increase vaginal lubrication. Reduced blood flow can make the vagina smaller and drier, which can happen with age.

• Certain Therapies

Some medications can affect sexual function. Certain antidepressants can reduce sexual desire or a woman's ability to reach orgasm. Additionally, chemotherapy and other cancer treatments can affect sex hormone levels, causing sexual problems.

• Reproductive Conditions

Pain during sex can result from reproductive organ diseases such as ovarian cysts, uterine fibroids, or endometriosis. Vaginismus, a condition causing vaginal muscle spasms, can also cause discomfort during intercourse.

• Hormonal Changes

Hormonal imbalances due to menopause or pregnancy can cause the vaginal lining to become dry or thin, leading to pain during intercourse. Low estrogen levels can also reduce genital sensitivity.

• Certain Medical Conditions

Certain health conditions can affect your ability to enjoy sex, including:

• Diabetes
• Arthritis
• Multiple sclerosis
• Heart disease
• Substance or alcohol dependence

Psychological Causes

Psychological causes of sexual dysfunction in women include:

• Depression

Depression can decrease interest in previously enjoyable activities, including sex. Low self-esteem and feelings of helplessness can also contribute to sexual dysfunction.

• Stress

Stress at home or work can make it difficult to fully enjoy sexual activity. Some studies indicate that stress increases cortisol levels, which can decrease sexual desire.

• History of Physical or Sexual Abuse

Trauma or abuse can cause anxiety and fear about intimate relationships, making it difficult to engage in sexual activity.

• Relationship Problems

Some women may feel unhappy with their partner or bored during sex. Conflicts with a partner, related to sex or other aspects of the relationship, can decrease your sexual response.

If you are interested in reading further about depression, you can read it here: Depression - Definition, Cause And Risk Factors.

Risk Factor

Sexual problems tend to increase with age, though sexual dysfunction can affect women of any age group. Psychological disorders such as depression or anxiety can increase the risk of sexual dysfunction. Medical conditions related to heart and blood vessels, or genital shrinkage, can also be risk factors.

Symptoms

Female sexual dysfunction can present as various complaints with multiple causes. It can occur before, during, or even after sex. Generally, sexual dysfunction is related to:

• Pain during intercourse
• Involuntary, painful vaginal muscle contractions during sexual activity
• Lack of interest in sexual activity and/or decreased sexual desire
• Difficulty experiencing or achieving orgasm

Diagnosis

The doctor will evaluate both physical and psychological factors that may influence sexual dysfunction. The doctor may ask about the following:

• Your complaints and symptoms
• Medical and injury history
• Treatment or use of illegal substances
• Previous surgeries, such as hysterectomy or oophorectomy
• Psychological issues
• Sexual history

The doctor may conduct a pelvic exam and Pap smear to check for abnormalities in the internal and external genital organs. In some cases, additional tests like imaging may be required to look for tumors or cysts. Blood tests can help diagnose hormonal imbalances. Vaginal fluid culture tests may be performed to detect infections.

The doctor will also explore possible psychological causes. Talk openly and honestly with your doctor about your sexual problems. Don't be afraid to share your fears or anxieties. Sometimes, the doctor may recommend further consultation with a mental health specialist, psychiatrist, or relationship counselor.

Management

You can consult with your doctor to choose the appropriate therapy for sexual dysfunction. It is important to understand the physical and psychological causes of your sexual dysfunction before choosing and undergoing treatment.

Therapies for sexual dysfunction include:

• Learning How to Increase Sexual Arousal

You and your partner can learn about female anatomy and ways to increase sexual desire and arousal. Consider changing your sexual routine. You can also try sexual stimulation devices, massages, or masturbation.

• Counseling

Consulting with a mental health professional can help you address emotional and psychological issues that hinder sexual satisfaction. This counseling can be done alone or with your partner.

• Hormonal Therapy

Estrogen therapy can be used to treat sexual dysfunction in menopausal women or those with hormonal imbalances. However, estrogen therapy can slightly increase the risk of breast cancer, so this treatment option should be discussed with your doctor.

• Pain Management

There are various ways to reduce pain during intercourse. You can try different sexual positions, lubricants, or relaxation techniques before sexual activity.

Complications

In some women, sexual dysfunction can resolve on its own or only occur occasionally. However, for other women, sexual dysfunction may require ongoing therapy.

All problems associated with sexual dysfunction can cause women to avoid sex and lower their quality of life. If not properly treated, it can lead to relationship conflicts and even separation.

Prevention

Although there is no specific way to prevent sexual dysfunction, you can reduce the risk by:

• Avoiding drug abuse and excessive alcohol consumption
• Following a healthy and balanced diet
• Exercising regularly
• Maintaining an ideal body weight
• Consulting with a healthcare professional if you experience relationship or psychological issues that affect your life and others.

Additionally, discuss the risk of sexual dysfunction with your doctor before starting new medications or undergoing certain medical procedures.

When to See a Doctor?

Sexual issues are considered dysfunction when they cause distress or become frequent problems. You can consult a doctor for evaluation and therapy.

Sexual dysfunction can cause frustration or sadness in many women. However, you do not need to feel ashamed. Talking openly and honestly with your partner and doctor can help identify and address the root causes.

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