1. What is female sexual dysfunction?
Female sexual dysfunction is a very complicated issue, but there has been little research on the subject, and the defining characteristics of the condition remain broad. It’s usually defined as an inadequate sexual function and is believed to affect 40% of women. It affects women of all ages, though is more common in those over 40. It typically involves low of levels sexual desire, with some women experiencing vaginal pain or problems with their orgasm.
2. Who can suffer from female sexual dysfunction?
FSD is mostly caused due to hormonal changes such as the menopausal transition or the postpartum, so it’s more common in women aged 40 and over. However, women of all ages can be affected.
3. What is the most common form of FSD?
A recent survey suggests that the most common FSD is hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD) commonly known as low sex drive or libido. HSDD is a deficiency or absence of sexual fantasies and a desire for sexual activity. According to the survey, 37% of women suffering from HSDD think about sex a few times a month and only 33% think about sex 2-3 times a week or more.
4. What causes female sexual dysfunction?
There are 3 known causes of female sexual dysfunction;
Physical
Physical ailments like arthritis, urinary or bowel difficulties, pelvic surgery, fatigue, headaches, other pain problems and neurological disorders such as multiple sclerosis can cause FSD. Certain medications such as anti-depressants, blood pressure medicine, antihistamines and chemotherapy drugs can decrease the sex drive and the body’s ability to experience orgasm.
Hormonal
Hormonal changes, like lower oestrogen levels, leads to changes in the genital tissues and the sexual response. The folds of skin that cover the genital region (labia) become thinner exposing more of the clitoris, reducing its sensitivity or causing an unpleasant tingling or prickling sensation. These factors can lead to painful intercourse (dyspareunia) and experiencing orgasm may take longer.
Psychological and social
Issues like anxiety, depression, emotional distress, worries about pregnancy and problems with your body image may all contribute to diminished sexual response and sexual dysfunction.
5. How can I treat Female sexual dysfunction?
How FSD is treated depends on what the causes are. Women suffering from hormonal problems, particularly those who are in the menopausal transition or the postpartum may find a testosterone patch, such as Intrinsa, will help them to reawaken their sexual desire. Those who experience problems due to psychological issues such as depression, low self-esteem and guilt, may find counselling an effective solution. Changing your regular contraception may also have an impact, as could Kegal exercises of the vaginal muscles.
6. How do I know if I have a problem?
Up to 70% of couples have a problem with sex at some point in their relationship. Most women will have sex that doesn't feel good at some point in their life; this doesn't necessarily mean you have a sexual problem. However, if you frequently lack sexual desire, are unable to enjoy sex, have insufficient vaginal lubrication or don’t often have an orgasm even when sexually aroused, you would be advised to speak to a doctor or to take an online consultation.
7. How do I know when to seek help?
This decision is up to you; if the problem is psychological, relating to stress, depression or anxiety, it may go away on its own. However, if it persists, it might be time to consider professional help.
8. How can I get help?
Help is available through both individual or couples therapy; a doctor can also prescribe medication or make adjustments to existing medication to reduce its sexual side effects. There are also some hormonal treatments for women that are helpful during and after menopause. You can find out more by taking a free online consultation.
9. What simple things can I do?
Learn more about your body and how it works; try sexual activities other than intercourse, such as massage, oral sex or masturbation. Lubricants will help if you are experiencing vaginal dryness.
10. Can my partner help?
Sometimes talking to your partner about your problem, what each of you like and dislike, helps when trying to discover the cause. If you feel you can't talk to your partner, your doctor or a counsellor may be able to help you discover the route of your problem. If your feel self conscious about be subject, an online consultation may be more suitable.
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