Female sexual dysfunction can cause personal and relationship distress. If you’re experiencing sexual arousal disorder, orgasmic disorder, low sexual desire, or sexual pain disorder, it is important to remember that you are NOT alone. Countless women like you suffer from female sexual dysfunction. But what are the causes of this condition? This article will help you find out.

Before anything else, consult a professional such as a reliable sexual health expert in Miami. This way, you will get an expert diagnosis and a treatment plan that will fit your needs.

What is Female Sexual Dysfunction?

Female sexual dysfunction is a medical term that describes persistent, reoccurring issues with orgasm, desire, and sexual response. It is technically classified by four areas that can be affected:

  • Arousal
  • Desire 
  • Orgasm
  • Pain with intercourse

Overall, sexual dysfunction is very common among women. Symptoms can occur at any life stage, both young and old. Female sexual dysfunction may happen in all sexual situations or only in certain ones. The symptoms of female sexual dysfunction vary depending on the type of condition you are experiencing.

Since the sexual response is linked with emotions, beliefs, relationships, and lifestyle, disruption of one of these components can negatively affect satisfaction, arousal, and desire. 

Orgasmic disorder is one of the most common types of dysfunction, and it refers to recurrent or persistent difficulty in reaching orgasm (even with stimulation and sexual arousal).

Sexual arousal disorder is also widespread. In this case, sexual desire may be intact, but there may have difficulties with arousal including difficulty remaining aroused during sex.

Low sexual desire is also very common among women. While it is usually associated with older women or women in menopause, it can affect those in their 20s, 30s, or 40s as well. 

The Causes of Female Sexual Dysfunction

Couple Having Arguments and Sexual Problems in Bed

 

There are several causes of female sexual dysfunction. 

These factors include physical, hormonal, and psychological factors. For instance, if you are diagnosed (or have been diagnosed in the past) with kidney failure, heart disease, cancer, or bladder issues, sexual dysfunction symptoms may arise in the future if they have not already. 

All of these are physical factors that may influence your sexual desire. Moreover, certain compounds, including chemotherapy drugs, blood pressure medications, and antidepressants, can decrease your body’s ability to achieve orgasm.

Hormonal factors such as low estrogen levels may also affect your sex life. Since plummeting estrogen levels can lead to less blood flow to your pelvic region, you may experience decreased genital sensation. Therefore, it will be more challenging to reach an orgasm.

Of course, psychological factors such as depression and anxiety may also significantly impact your sexual life. Psychological factors that remain untreated can cause long-term stress and sexual dysfunction.

Discuss your medical and sexual history with your doctor to receive a proper diagnosis. Always be open and honest about your sexuality and the symptoms you are experiencing. Being sincere will allow your doctor to help you more effectively and efficiently.

Also, your doctor may want to perform a pelvic exam and order blood tests. You may also be referred to a therapist or a counselor specializing in sexual issues.

Fortunately, you have many treatment options. For example, your doctor may recommend estrogen therapy, androgen therapy, Bremelanotide (Vyleesi), Flibanserin (Addyi), or Ospemifene (Osphena). 

Alternatively, you may need to change your lifestyle and implement healthier habits. For example, limit alcohol and tobacco use, and increase exercise. Also, you may need to use a vaginal lubricant.

Female Sexual Dysfunction Risk Factors

The following factors put you at risk for sexual dysfunction:

  • Blood vessel and heart disease
  • Anxiety and depression
  • Medications such as high blood pressure medications and antidepressants
  • History of sexual abuse
  • Psychological and emotional stress

Reach Out Today

Improve your life and strengthen your relationship with your partner. Book an appointment today with the best professionals you can find and receive premium treatment.