With around 30 to 50 percent of women experiencing some sexual difficulties in their lives, these are common and are not usually a cause for concern, however, if they are affecting your relationship or causing you worry, make an appointment with a Doctor. Please note, Female Sexual Dysfunction can occur at any stage of life.
Over this article, we’ll discuss the symptoms of sexual dysfunction more in-depth, covering some of the causes that could present the symptoms and what each of those things means for you.
Symptoms
Symptoms do vary depending on what type you’re experiencing:
- Lack of sexual desire: It is undoubtedly the most common symptom experienced and is described by a lack of interest or willingness in sexual activities.
- Pain during intercourse: This symptom involves feeling pain or discomfort during the activity.
- Sexual arousal: A symptom that we did not mention before, it can mean that you have the desire but are unable to be or stay aroused during intercourse.
- Trouble reaching orgasm: This is described as the inability to reach orgasm consistently, even after sexual stimulation.
- Vaginal Dryness: It is usually brought about by hormonal changes, especially in breastfeeding women.
Possible causes
Any number of factors could cause sexual dysfunction. The leading causes typically fall under physical, hormonal, psychological, and social umbrellas.
Psychological causes could include untreated anxiety, depression, long-term stress or other related problems. For instance, the worries of pregnancy or motherhood could have an effect.
Hormonal issues could mean lower estrogen levels after menopause leading to changes in your sexual responsiveness and genital tissues. Often a decrease in estrogen will lead to decreased blood flow to your pelvic region, which can mean less genital sensation or needing more time to build up arousal. After giving birth and during breast feeding, your body’s hormone levels shift, which can lead to vaginal dryness and the desire to have sex.
Social causes might refer to conflicts with your partner that you need to address. When you feel uncomfortable or have another thought in your head battling for dominance, it will make maintaining arousal much more challenging.
Physical or health problems can often cause a lack of sexual desire and your body’s ability to experience an orgasm. Possible medical conditions that may be held responsible are cancer, kidney failure, heart disease, bladder problems and multiple sclerosis.
Many medications also play a part. Including antidepressants, chemotherapy drugs, antihistamines and blood pressure medication may decrease your body’s desire or ability to reach orgasm.
What you can do
Seek a medical opinion. If your doctor has concern, they may:
Order blood tests
Perform a pelvic exam
Discuss your sexual and medical history
Conclusion
It can cause worry when your body isn’t cooperating in the way you want, especially if this is the first time you’ve encountered such problems. However, as previously said, it is a common issue that many women face at some time or another.
If you have any more questions or concerns, please do contact Shady Grove Gyn Care today.
To learn more about this subject and its typical treatments, visit this page on sexual dysfunction.